Breast augmentation - MRIs and check-ups needed?

Question

Hi I wanna know after breast augmemtation should do mri or any especific checkup every year?

Brandon Lambiris, MD · Answer

Great question – Breast implant imaging recommendations depend on the type of implant you have and whether you are having symptoms. 
For asymptomatic women with silicone implants, the FDA recommends the following:*First screening MRI or high resolution ultrasound 5 years after surgery.*Every 2 to 3 years thereafter to monitor for silent rupture (a rupture that does not cause obvious symptoms).
These guidelines apply specifically to silicone gel implants because saline implants will deflate when ruptured, often making detection by physical exam much easier and imaging less necessary for routine monitoring.
If you are experiencing breast changes, discomfort, firmness, or swelling, imaging may be recommended sooner regardless of the implant type. An MRI is considered the most sensitive method for evaluating silicone implant integrity, though high-resolution ultrasound is emerging as a more accessible and cost-effective option in many practices. 
It is also worth noting that routine mammograms are still recommended based on age and risk factors, even for patients with implants- though you should be sure to inform the radiologist so that they can use proper implant displacement techniques to best examine your breast tissue and protect your implant.
Most importantly, always check with your board-certified plastic surgeon or healthcare provider for individualized recommendations based on your implant site and personal health history.
Dr. Brandon LambirisBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon–Sarasota, FL

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

MRI is the most sensitive study for detection of implant rupture.

Manufacturers recommendation for surveillance:
-5 years post augmentation
-Every 3 years moving forward.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

We do not recommend mammograms after breast augmentation surgery. However, you can continue your regular yearly  breast ultrasound exams. Extra tests or scans are not necessary unless your surgeon recommends them.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

The current recommendations from the FDA as well as the American Society Of Plastic Surgeons, recommends a ultrasound or MRI five or six years after your augmentation and then every two or three years after that to check for the integrity of your implants.  These are recommendations and some patients choose to follow them, and other patients choose to not follow them.  Self examinations are encouraged to monitor for any changes which may indicate the need for an US or MRI.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question!
Your surgeon will let you know his/her protocol for follow up visits and when a MRI is needed. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon for your options. Best wishes!

Breast augmentation - MRIs and check-ups needed?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast implant monitoring recommendations.

Answer: Breast implant monitoring recommendations.

Answer: Breast Augmentation

Answer: Breast Augmentation

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Breast augmentation - MRIs and check-ups needed?

Answers (10)

Answer: Breast implant monitoring recommendations.

Answer: Breast implant monitoring recommendations.

Answer: Breast Augmentation

Answer: Breast Augmentation

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.