Should I Avoid Getting Breast Implants Due to my Family History of Breast Cancer?

When it comes to breast surgery you are asking the right questions. Being that you are 50 it is important to get a mammogram before getting your breast implants. That being said, no, there is no reason why breast implants would increase you risks for getting breast cancer. The two factors that influence breast cancer the most are gender and age. Mammograms are highly specialized machines and can see the breast tissue even with implants.

Breast augmentation does not change your risk for breast cancer.

You still need to perform monthly self breast exams and get routine screening mammograms (they will get three xrays of each breast instead of two after augmentation).  You need to know that both your self exam and your mammograms will feel/look a little different than before your surgery.

You may need a breast lift for optimal appearance even with an implant.  This is something that you need to discuss with your physician.

Breast implants will not impart a greater risk of breast cancer. However, once you perform the breast implantation, you should be remain vigilant with breast cancer screening.  Also, you may consider genetic testing if you are very concerned about breast cancer.