Breast Cancer Screening with Implants: What You Should Know

If you have breast implants, you may wonder how they affect breast cancer screening. The good news is that implants don’t stop you from getting screened—you’ll just need a few extra steps to make sure everything is checked properly.

Do Implants Raise My Risk of Breast Cancer?

• No. Research shows that saline and silicone implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer.

• There is a rare condition called breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) linked to some textured implants. This is not breast cancer, but it’s important to know about. Dr. Korus has never used these implants.

How Mammograms Work with Implants

Mammograms are still the first choice for screening, even with implants. But because implants can block some breast tissue, the imaging team will take extra pictures:

• Special views (Eklund technique): The technologist gently moves the implant back and pulls the breast tissue forward. This makes more of the breast visible on the scan.

• A few extra images: Compared to someone without implants, you’ll likely need a couple more X-rays.

The test may feel a bit different, but technologists are trained to handle implants safely.

Currently guidelines suggest for women with no increased risk of breast cancer to start screening between 40 and 50 years old.  Specifically in Alberta it is recommended to start at 45 although there is a survival benefit to starting at 40.

Other Helpful Tests

Sometimes, your doctor may suggest other imaging tools:

• Ultrasound can help show whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled.

• MRI is especially helpful for women at higher risk of breast cancer. It gives very detailed pictures and works well even if you have implants.

Tips for a Smooth Screening

• Tell your imaging center you have implants when booking your mammogram.

• Pick a facility with experience - not all centers do a lot of implant screenings.

• Keep your implant information. If you know the type and placement, share it with your care team.

Having implants doesn’t mean skipping breast cancer screening—it just means doing it a little differently. With the right techniques and experienced staff, you can still get clear, reliable results.

👉 Takeaway: Keep up with your mammograms, let your provider know about your implants, and don’t ignore any changes in your breasts. Early detection is still your best protection.