MRI to check Silicone implants, how often should I get one in Australia?

Question

Are the guidelines for Australia different (compared to the US guidelines set by the FDA) regarding how often to have an MRI after getting Silicone implants? Is there a set 'rule' for everyone or are the Australian requirements different. Your advice on this is appreciated. Thank you

Terrence Scamp, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Yes you are right there are American indications by their FDA , and they are unique to America.Whilst MRIs involve no radiation they are expensive . You are free to follow the above recommendations if you desire , but most plastic surgeons in every other country in the world would feel that these are excessive .If you had an implant of dubious quality such as the PIP then I would certainly go along with the above or even more frequent checks . On the other hand I would personally be inclined to remove and replace those implants for peace of mind .If you have implants that are of the normal durability then your chances of rupture are very small and increase a little as the years go by . So about 10 years would be a reasonable time to check and then every 5 years or so thereafter . Even this would be considered excessive by some .Discuss your situation with your surgeon and be guided accordingly .CheersTS

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Current recommendation in United States is 3 years after surgery and then every two years after that. I would follow the advice of your local plastic surgeon for their specific recommendation. Best!Pej Aflaki, M.D.Johns Hopkins-trained plastic surgeon

Damian Marucci, MBBS, PhD, FRACS · Answer

Thank your for your excellent question to which there is no agreed answer.
It is important to have mammograms and ultrasounds as per your age and risk of breast cancer. Ultrasounds are pretty good at detecting problems with the implants, such as rupture.
Some women are unable to cope with the discomfort of a mammogram and so opt for an MRI instead. In addition to being a good way to detect breast cancer, MRIs are the best way of assessing the integrity of breast implants. This comes with a significant cost to the patient, however. 
As a general rule, I only order an MRI to assess breast implants if the ultrasound is equivocal but the symptoms suggest rupture. 
In a nutshell, there are no Australian guidelines for MRI assessment of implants.
I hope this helps.

Julio Clavijo-Alvarez, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Thanks for sharing your question. I can appreciate your concern.
  
The FDA recommendation is to start at year 3 after the augmentation and then every 2 years. The purpose is to rule out implant leakage.The big question is who is paying for it. Insurances Do Not cover this recommendation, because cosmetic surgery is not functional. If patients have to pay out of pocket, this will add significant cost to their after care. The majority of current implants, have cohesive gel that prevents the dreaded silicone leakage into the pockets. With this information, identifying a damage of the implant shell, would not have a medical implication and therefore the information should not change medical management. You only need to operate if there is an issue with the implant interaction with the patient. 
Finally, make sure that you have a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.
  
Wishing you the best in your journey

MRI to check Silicone implants, how often should I get one in Australia?

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Answer: MRI after breast augmentation

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MRI to check Silicone implants, how often should I get one in Australia?

Answers (4)

Answer: MRI after breast augmentation

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