Can breast implants hide tumors if placed under the muscle?

Dear BA patient.  Any implant can make mammogram more difficult but less likely with submuscular.  If the radiologist has difficulty viewing your tissue then they will get alternate view, and ultrasound, or an MRI to better evaluate and be confident that things appear normal.  Trust me they will get the views need to best evaluate your breast when the time comes.  Just be sure you do your part while your young- monthly self breast exams yourself until mammogram time! 

While breast implants do obscure a small amount of breast tissue during mammograms, there is no statistical difference in breast cancer detection rates, the stage of breast cancer when detected, the treatment or survival outcomes between women with implants and women without implants. Subpectoral placement does obscure a little less breast tissue than subglandular placement.

ALL implants can interfere with the ability to see all of the breast tissue with mammograms. Placing the implant beneath the muscle can improve the chances but is no guarantee. Also keep in mind that not all breast cancers are detected by mammograms. Ultrasounds and MRIs can always be done if there is any issue or concern. I also teach my patients the importance of good self examination which can be done easily regardless of where the implant is placed.