If I get the gummy bear implants; would I still have to get yearly mammograms?

Gummy bear implants contain a more cohesive type of silicone that is firmer than breast tissue. Smooth round gummy bear implants are now available but are also more expensive (and firmer) than regular silicone gel implants. Shaped, textured implants are not a good option because of the risks of texturing, including ALCL (a rare cancer), that have become apparent in recent years. In terms of mammograms, there really is no difference between implants - they all cast a shadow and additional views are needed to fully image the breast. But you can definitely have mammograms after implants are inserted.

Having any kind of implants does not change your screening criteria.  You continue to get mammograms based on your PCP/breast care physician, implants or not!

Having breast implants does not change the need for routine breast cancer screening, regardless of the type of implant.  Please follow the advice of your gynecologist for routine screening mammograms.  Your breast health is worth it!Best wishes,Dr. Michelle Spring

Mammogram guidelines should be followed by all women regardless of whether they have implants or not. It also doesn't depend on the type of implant. Always discuss the guidelines with a medical professional. 

Yes, you will still need to do yearly mammograms after a breast augmentation.  Because the procedure is very common, centers that do mammography are very familiar with positioning the implant to get the best views of your breast tissue.

Women who undergo breast augmentation should obtain mammograms just as women without breast implants. On occasion, some additional pictures may be performed where the implants are moved slightly to the side to allow complete visualization of the breast tissue. For most women, standard recommendation is for yearly mammogram starting around your 40th birthday. If someone has higher risk factors, your doctor may recommend that imaging start earlier or more frequently. 

Regardless of which implant a patient has, they still need to go for their yearly screening mammogram.  It is the only way to effectively screen for breast cancer and the radiologists do different techniques to look around the implants themselves so they do not miss any breast tissue.  I hope this helps.

Thank you for sharing your question.  Regardless of implant style or size you would need to still follow recommended mammogram screenings based on your age and risk factors.  Hope this helps.

Augmentation does not mitigate the need for screening mammography. When placed in the submuscular plane, an implant has little to no effect on the diagnostic efficacy of a mammogram. Implants have become so common place and breast radiology so specialized, that the majority of radiologists are very comfortable interpreting studies in patients with implants in placeFinally, it is important to remember, there is no effect on MRI (the most sensitive and specific breast cancer diagnostic tool).As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Thanks for your question. You should continue to get annual mammograms regardless of the presence or type of breast implants you have. Best of luck!