Is it safe to have a mammogram with a ruptured silicone implant?

Question

I have a confirmed rupture by ultrasound (also symptoms of pain). Is it safe to do a mammogram? Or will this spread the silicone?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear 80s_baby,

there is a chance that mammography will cause further rupture so it is better to get implants removed or replaced. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Concerns regarding breast implants and breast cancer screening is common among the breast augmentation population.

Here are the facts:
-Mammogram remains the effective screening tool for breast cancer whether or not you have had augmentation

-In light of the increased prevalence of implants/augmentation, breast radiographers have become skilled in obtaining displacement views (Eklund views) and reviewing images with implants in place. Implant type/position should not affect the ability to obtain and review quality screening images.

-There is, within the literature, no documented decrease in the rate of detection among the breast augmentation population.

It is important to mention to your mammographer that you have undergone augmentation prior to your study. I also typically recommend a pre-operative study as a baseline.

With regards to your specific question, a ruptured implant is not a surgical emergency. Most go unrecognized and undiagnosed for years after the initial device compromise. In fact, they are often initially detected via screening mammogram. As such, there is no immediate danger from imaging (despite compression concerns).

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

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

If you know your implant is ruptured, it would be best to have them removed/replaced before proceeding with a mammogram.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Due to concerns from placing excessive pressure on your ruptured implant during a mammogram, most surgeons will suggest removing or replacing the implant before having this done. As the situation is different for every patient, consult with your surgeon who can provide the best advice, based on the findings on ultrasound, the type of implant, the location of the implants, and other factors such as urgency to the mammogram and the presence of a capsule.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

to discuss an appropriate plan for management of your ruptured implant and further evaluation of your breast health. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If your implants are younger than 1993, then a mammogram is safe. From 1992-2007 we only had saline in the US available to women routinely.  Beginning in 2007, the gel implants are like Jello and not liquid and will not spread much with mammograms.

Mauricio Castano, MD · Answer

Hi, I would advice if you have symptoms have an implant replacement. The silicone will not get out of the capsule that your body produce to surround the implant, but the pressure to the implant made by the mammogram might make the rupture site bigger. As I mentioned, an implant exchange is advised (in case you want to keep up with a breast implant). Hope this works for you.

Is it safe to have a mammogram with a ruptured silicone implant?

Answers (7)

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