History of breast cancer on both sides of family, should I still get implants?

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. You can consider getting a genetic test and evaluation by a breast oncologist if you are concerned that your family history puts you at too high of a risk.

The details of your family history of breast cancer are important. The number of persons in the family who had breast cancer, how old they were when they were diagnosed, and the circumstances of the breast cancer itself are critical details. If your family members were diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age, your primary care provider should consider referring you to a geneticist to determine if there is a genetic disorder in the family (like BRCA gene mutations). If you have a genetic disorder that places you at significantly higher risk of breast cancer then the general population, it is important to know this prior to any breast surgery.

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Don't get fat transfer . The fat will become lumpy and you will be left with trying to figure out if any if the lumps could possibly be cancer. Get saline implants under the muscle

Thank you for your question. There is no proven link between breast implants and/or fat transfer and breast cancer.
Some points to note:
1. self exams are important2. mammograms once you are of screening age or at a doctors direction3. long term follow-up with your clinician and surveillance4. the prompt investigation of any lump or symptoms you experience.5. Good radiologists can still assess a breast to a high standard even with an implant and/or fat transfer having occurred.
I wish you best of luck with your onward journey.

Dear Hepburnn,
positive family history of breast cancer is not a contraindication for breast augmentation. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

The decision to get breast implants is a personal one and should be made carefully, taking into consideration your individual health history and risk factors. Given your family history of breast cancer on both sides, it's important to be especially cautious and consult with medical professionals who can provide guidance based on your specific situation. Here are some key considerations:

1.) Consult with a Healthcare Provider: Start by discussing your family history and your desire for breast implants with a healthcare provider, preferably a breast surgeon or a genetic counselor. They can assess your risk factors, recommend genetic testing if necessary, and provide guidance based on your individual situation.

2.) Genetic Testing: If there is a strong family history of breast cancer, genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations may be recommended. These mutations increase the risk of breast cancer. Knowing your genetic risk can help you make an informed decision.

3.) Breast Cancer Screening: Regardless of whether you choose to get breast implants, regular breast cancer screening is essential. Mammograms, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams should be a part of your routine healthcare.

4.) Implant Placement and Mammography: If you decide to proceed with breast implants, discuss the choice of implant placement (above or below the chest muscle) with your surgeon. Implants placed below the muscle may allow for better mammography results.

5.) Risks and Benefits: Understand the potential risks and benefits of breast augmentation surgery. Implants may make it more challenging to detect breast cancer through mammography, and they may require additional imaging techniques like MRI. However, they can also enhance your self-esteem and body image if that's your goal.

6.) Alternative Options: Consider alternative options, such as breast reconstruction techniques that use your body's own tissues instead of implants. These options may have different advantages and risks.

7.) Second Opinions: It's often a good idea to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of your options and risks.

Ultimately, the decision to get breast implants should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals who can provide you with the most up-to-date information and guidance based on your unique medical history and risk factors. Your health and well-being should be the top priority, so it's important to make an informed decision that you are comfortable with.

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There is no concrete yes or no answer to this question. This is a decision that you have to decide what is right for you. Many women with family breast cancer history have implants. They will not prevent you from having screening and/or diagnostic tests for your breast health. Fat transfer can be problematic during mammograms. Have you spoken to your OB/Gyn or PCP about BRCA testing to determine your risk of developing certain types of cancer? I encourage you to have discussions with the physician you see regularly for breast health as well as a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

I would suggest first being tested genetically to see how high your risk is for breast cancer. If you carry the gene, consider an elective mastectomy and reconstruction. Otherwise, I would avoid a fat transfer to avoid confusion on future X-ray's.

You can have the breast augmentation operation even though you have breast cancer history both sides of your family. After the breast augmentation operation, the regular check-ups and scans are very important. You have to have check-ups and scan regularly to check if everything is okay.