Implant type for family history of breast cancer - what is the safest option?

There are pros and cons to both silicone and saline implants. It's important that you discuss each with your surgeon in order to make the best decision for you. Both are safe to use. Mammograms can detect cancer with either in place. It is suggested you go behind the muscle., which will also give you a more natural look. You may also want to look into BRCA testing. This simple blood test can help detect your risk for certain breast cancers.

Hello, thank you for your excellent question. If there is a family history of breast CA(cancer) then there are several factors to consider. The first is if there is a family history of breast CA have you thought about genetic testing for the BRCA gene, secondly you will have to go for mammograms and early screening prior to the age of which your mom was diagnosed. The main difference between saline and silicone for the purpose of detecting breast CA is obtaining an MRI with silicone implants vs saline the ultrasound alone will be helpful in early detection. As time goes on and hoping medicine/science advances, maybe they will improve the ability to detect breast CA early on. You will want to consider the pros and cons of each option. Overall you will have to choose what is the best option for you. Consider speaking to your Plastic Surgeon and your family doctor.

Dear BaileySmith06,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery