Do Implants Complicate Breast Biopsy Surgery?

Breast implants can make having a breast biopsy more complicated. However, careful and expert approaches rarely result in any damage to the implants. Most experience general surgeons and radiologists involved with these procedures are very familiar with managing patients with implants. Correspondence between the PS and the biopsy surgeon is usually all that is needed. You should not let your fear of having damage to your implants get in the way of a diagnostic test.

Good luck

Dr. Mosher

 

There is a risk that breast implants may rupture during a breast biopsy, but their actual presence should not make  the biopsy more difficult.  It is important for your surgeon to be aware of the presence of the implants and to take precautions to avoid rupturing them.  Antibiotics should also be prescribed after the surgery to protect the implants from getting infected.  Although these complications can happen, they are not common.  But to be safe, a plastic surgeon should be consulted and be on standby for these possibilities.  

The risk to your implants at the time of a biopsy depends upon how close the lump is to the implant.  A general surgeon that speacializes in breast is likely to be quite familiar with this setting and able to advise you of risk.  If the implant is injured (an uncommon event) you and your plastic surgeon can coordinate with the general surgeon about your wisest options.