According to their 2013 statistics, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that over 230,000 new women will experience invasive breast cancer with over 39,000 deaths as a result. All women should be properly educated on the best ways to spot breast cancer, especially those women who have undergone a breast augmentation.
SPOTTING BREAST CANCER WITH BREAST IMPLANTS
Some women are lead to believe that mammograms will no longer work properly if they have received implants. This belief is based on the fact with breast implants involved, mammograms will need to be performed in a slightly modified way in order to effectively analyze the breast tissue. However, regular mammograms are still the best way to spot breast cancer.
Women with implants should take the following steps when seeking out mammograms.
- Ask your board-certified breast surgeon for a referral for where to have your mammogram.
- Verify that the medical staff conducting your screening has been properly trained and certified to administer mammograms.
- Make sure that they are aware you have had a breast augmentation and don’t be afraid to remind them multiple times.
- Request a technician who has had experience with mammograms for women with breast implants.
There are several other breast care guidelines that women should be following to be better prepared against breast cancer whether or not they have breast implants. Monthly self-examinations to feel for precancerous lumps are can be critical in catching breast cancer early on. Mammograms should be performed at the recommended intervals – beginning at age 35 and then continuing annually after age 40.
Women can have a breast augmentation without increasing their risk of breast cancer or preventing detection as long as the proper safety measures are taken. Speak with your board certified plastic surgeon with any questions or concerns that you may have about breast care or the safety of breast augmentation.
