Breast Implants and Breast Cancer

Breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgical procedure in the US., with over 365,000 new breast augmentations done in 2021. 

Although it is a safe operation and most people experience no serious complications, having implants does not mean that getting scans is any less important. In fact, if you are getting a breast cancer screening with implants, doctors may have trouble seeing cancerous masses on imaging scans. Breast implants consist of either saline or silicone, and these materials can block parts of the breast from X-rays. Some medical facilities may also have little experience in properly scanning patients with them.

In rare cases, implants can cause breast cancer around an implant or the fluid in-between the scar tissue. While breast implant cancer is highly treatable, it is always important to watch for possible symptoms and talk with a doctor to receive a full medical evaluation. The symptoms of breast implant cancer are very similar to “regular” breast cancer, with signs like lumps, pain, swelling of the breast, changes in breast size, and redness.

It is very important to make sure you get regularly screened, and to always tell your doctor about your implants ahead of time to avoid complications. The KBCT -device is ideal for painless and comfortable scanning, and for patients with breast implants, it eliminates any risk of compression rupturing implants. 

Read more at: https://www.koninghealth.com/product-solutions/koning-breast-ct

Sources:

“Annual Statistics Revealing Significant Increases in Face, Breast and Body in 2021”, The Aesthetic Society, PR Newswire

“Breast Cancer Screening With Implants”, September 28, 2020 by Breast Implant Cancer Advocates