Implants & Breast Cancer Risk
With the chances of a woman having invasive breast cancer at some point during her life at 1 in 8 (according to the American Cancer Society), the decision to get breast implants comes with serious consideration—even more so if there is a family history of the disease.
So, should someone with a family history of breast cancer even begin to consider implants? Are they safe? Here's what the RealSelf.com experts had to say in response:
1. There hasn't been evidence linking breast implants to breast cancer.
Dr. Kenneth R. Francis, an NYC plastic surgeon, states that "In fact, the studies that have been performed in women with breast implants show that women with implants have a lower incidence of breast cancer." But he is also quick to point out that this is most likely because higher-risk breast implant candidates are screened out first.
2. Mammograms still work on breasts with implants.
The key, however, according to Virginia plastic surgeon Shahram Salemy M.D., is to let "the imaging center know that you do have breast implants, so that they can make the appropriate adjustments." Dr. Salemy also mentions the increased use of MRI technology, which can provide a more detailed view of breast tissue.
3. Some see benefit for self-exams
Self-exams are still a crucial part of breast cancer detection once you've had implants. Dr. Richard P. Rand, a Seattle plastic surgeon, states "because of implant massage daily, some patients find lumps earlier because they are so breast-aware."
Bottom Line: it's a very personal decision.
All the above doctors agree on this point. While Dr. Rand references that patients he has had pre-screened by their oncologists for reconstructive surgery have always received the green-light for breast implants, he also states that if you have a history of lumpy breast tissue--or that which is difficult to evaluate on a mammogram to begin with, "you might consider not having implants".
Return to RealSelf blog
Write a comment