Benign cyst - do I need a new mammogram before breast lift with implants?

Question

I have a benign cyst in left breast found several years ago and they put a marker in it for identification purposes. Do i need a new mammogram before breast lift with implants

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

A prior benign cyst with a marker does not automatically prevent a breast lift with implants, but your surgeon will usually want your breast imaging to be current before elective breast surgery. If your last mammogram or ultrasound was several years ago, it is very reasonable to update it before surgery, especially if you are 40 or older, have dense breasts, a family history, new symptoms, or any change in the area of the cyst.

Ask your plastic surgeon what imaging they require and have the prior report, marker information, and any biopsy or cyst results sent to them. In many cases this means a screening mammogram if you are due, or a diagnostic mammogram/ultrasound if the cyst area needs targeted evaluation. The goal is to document that the breast is stable before surgery, because implants and lift changes can make future exams and imaging interpretation more complex.

James M. Economides, MD, FACS · Answer

Given your history of a benign cyst with a marker placed in your left breast, it’s a good idea to be cautious and thorough before undergoing a breast lift with implants. Whether you need a new mammogram will depend on a few factors, but here’s some general guidance:

Surgeon’s Recommendation: Most surgeons will require an up-to-date mammogram or imaging (like ultrasound) before breast surgery, particularly when there’s a history of cysts or other breast abnormalities. This ensures they have a clear view of your breast tissue and can plan the surgery accordingly.

Timeline: Since your cyst was identified several years ago, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor or surgeon if a new mammogram is needed to ensure that there hasn’t been any change in the cyst or surrounding tissue. Even though it’s benign, confirming that nothing has changed is a smart precaution before surgery.

Cyst Management During Surgery: The marker placed in your cyst is useful for identifying the cyst's location, so your surgeon can avoid it during the breast lift and implant placement. If it’s been a while since your last imaging, a new mammogram or ultrasound could help your surgeon navigate the area more accurately.

Mammogram Frequency: Depending on your age and health history, your doctor may already recommend routine mammograms. It's worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether you should get a baseline mammogram before your surgery, particularly if you're approaching the age when regular screenings are typically recommended.

Recommendation:
It’s a good idea to consult with both your surgeon and the physician who is managing your breast health (or your primary care doctor). They’ll be able to assess if a new mammogram is necessary based on your history and the time that has passed since your last imaging. Most likely, it will help ensure your surgery goes smoothly and safely.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
 
Thank you for the question.

It is typically recommended to have a recent mammogram within 1 year of breast surgery in patients over 40 years of age.

So I would recommend to obtain a follow up mammogram prior to you breast lift with implants surgery.

I hope this helps.
Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
 
Dr. Irena Karanetz
Breast Fellowship-Trained
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

In my practice, I require a mammogram within a years time of surgery, for any women over the age of forty;  Also, for any women with a family history of mother or sister with breast cancer. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you have not had a mammogram for several years then you will need a repeat mammogram before having a breast lift.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear nursecas,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You should be okay if you had a recent mammogram and there is no change. The decision would be up to your surgeon

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, if you have not had a mammogram in less than 2 years, you need to get one just to check that area.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This question is best answered by your surgeon.  If your mammogram is recent you will likely be fine to proceed as planned.  If it has been several years then it is best to have one before surgery to serve as a baseline as well as ensure there are no current issues.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

If you’re current mammogram, it’s up-to-date the I see no reason to get another mammogram before your surgery.
Your next postoperative mammogram will serve as a baseline for reference.
I suggest you discuss with your provider. 
Best,
Mats Hagstrom

Benign cyst - do I need a new mammogram before breast lift with implants?

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