Chest X-ray and implants: how well can a chest X-ray of the lungs be seen with implants?

Question

I have pulmonary fibrosis and have had implants for 16 years. Recently one has leaked and the other is painful. I want to replace them. How well can chest X-ray of lungs be seen with implants. Thank you

Lawrence Iteld, MD · Answer

Breast implants do not obscure or block chest x-rays, CT scans, or breast imaging. Please see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to work with you on your exchange procedure

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Neither silicone nor saline breast implants will interfere with taking or reading X-rays of your lungs. Mammograms are less sensitive for ruptures, but all of the data on this is outdated.  MRI will have greater sensitivity and specificity for rupture. Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

You need not be concerned about breast implants interfering with chest X-rays. Lungs can be visualized with no problems in patients with breast implants.

Carmen Kavali, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Implants do not obstruct x-rays views.  Good luck with your implant exchange.Best wishes,Dr. Kavali

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Chest X-ray and implants: how well can a chest X-ray of the lungs be seen with implants?

Answers (4)

BREAST IMPLANTS PROVIDERS NEAR YOU