Can I do a biopsy with breast implants?

Question

I did breast mammogram last year & found out I have 3 tiny lumps, size smaller than a cm. I have breast implants. doctor said these lumps Are very close to the implants, a few millimeters. He suggest to remove my implants so I can do biopsy. Is it possible to do biopsy with breast implants if the lumps are very close to the implants? This doctor suggest to talk to another doctor who have experience with implants. I am very worried if I have to remove the implants or not?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, it's possible to do a biopsy with breast implants inserted but your surgeon would take precautions to decrease the risk of damaging the implant.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I think that will a skilled radiologist with experience with ultrasound guided biopsy, you should be able to have a biopsy without damaging the implants. Of course, implant rupture is always a risk with this type of procedure, but I would not advise having the implants removed prior to the procedure, just as a precaution. This seems overly conservative.Hope this helps!

Lisa Lynn Sowder, MD (retired) - Account Suspended · Answer

Disclaimer right up front.  I am not an expert on breast imaging.  I would recommend exploring an enhanced MRI.  It is my understanding if an enhanced MRI is negative, it is almost as good as a negative tissue biopsy.  Again, I am not an expert but this may be an option.  Maybe you could discuss this with your radiologist?  Good luck.  It's a tough problem.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

I'd suggest that you meet with an expert radiologist such as Dr. Marita Acheson of BBIC in Bellevue. With skill and ultrasound guidance this might be possible without damaging the implants.

Can I do a biopsy with breast implants?

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Answer: Breast biopsy with implants

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Can I do a biopsy with breast implants?

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Answer: Breast biopsy with implants

Answer: Breast biopsy with implants

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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