As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Richmond, I talk to women every day about their breasts. In our consultations, we always ensure discussing their family history of breast cancer and remind patients to stay on top of their screenings.

During breast cancer awareness month, I sat down with Dr. Kandace McGuire, Chief of Breast Surgery at VCU, to discuss the basics of breast cancer screening: 

Your Implants Won’t Stand in the Way

Let me be clear: having breast implants should never prevent you from getting proper breast cancer screening.

Patients with breast implants often require a few extra views to visualize the breasts, but this is safe and effective. Breast implants will not impede your ability to screen and detect breast cancers. 

Understanding Your Breast Cancer Screening Schedule

We recommend waiting at least 6 months after breast surgery to obtain any imaging of the breasts. During your consultation at our office, we’ll discuss your personal and family history to determine the right starting point for you.

If you have breast implants, you should let your mammogram technician know that you have them. If you have specific risk factors, such as a strong family history of breast cancer, you should generally begin mammogram screenings at age 40 or earlier.

What to Expect During Your Mammogram

Your mammogram will be slightly different from standard screenings. The technologist will take additional images to ensure all breast tissue is properly examined.

These extra steps help create a complete picture of your breast health. Aside from that, here are other things to expect during your mammogram:

  • You will inform the facility about your implants when scheduling.
  • The process might take slightly longer than a standard mammogram.
  • The technologist will take eight images instead of the usual four.
  • Special displacement views will ensure thorough tissue examination.

A Note About Implant Monitoring

While breast cancer screening is essential, you’ll also need to monitor your implants themselves. Modern implants are very safe, but imaging can help ensure they maintain their integrity over time.

The FDA recommends that breast implant patients undergo imaging surveillance to screen for abnormalities and cancer: 

  • Initial imaging: The first imaging exam should be an ultrasound or MRI 5 to 6 years after the initial implant surgery.
  • Subsequent imaging: After the initial exam, patients should undergo imaging every 2 to 3 years.

If you are having new symptoms associated with your implants, call our office to schedule a follow-up exam with Dr. Reddy.

Your Partner in Health

As your plastic surgeon, I’m committed to supporting your overall health and wellness. Our Richmond practice works closely with local breast imaging centers to ensure you receive expert care at every step. 

Schedule a consultation at our Richmond office.