Undergoing breast augmentation will require a lifetime of aftercare commitment and preparation and plan for the unexpected. You have modified your body, and therefore you will need to make some additional modifications to your lifestyle. After having a breast augmentation, you must accept the fact that you will be subjected to more risks as a result. Ruptures, capsular contraction, implant shifting and rippling are all issues that you should be informed about and recognize.



You will also experience more difficulties when having regular mammograms. Although you will not be required to receive mammograms more frequently than women with natural breasts, there are some things you need to know for your checkup.

The first and most important rule for mammograms after receiving breast implants is to inform the technician before the test. Implants are not transparent when x-rayed, which means they will obscure the surrounding tissue, making results difficult to read. This is true for both saline and silicone implants and placement of it above the pectoral muscle will further impede the readings.

So what can you do to ensure you receive the most accurate reading? Take the time to research radiologists who are experienced giving mammograms to women with implants. A technician who has not dealt with many breast augmentations might make misdiagnoses, and cancer going undetected is the last thing you want. And although rare, an unskilled technician might cause your implant to rupture under the pressure put on the breast during screening.

Since it is more difficult to read the x-rays, it is imperative that you do not miss your regularly scheduled mammograms. Even the most skilled radiologists can make mistakes.

In between visits, it is also important to perform regular self-breast exams every month and ideally three days after your menstrual cycle if you are still ovulating. The first step is to stand in front of a mirror and examine the exterior of your busts. Check for any discoloration, abnormal marks, bumps, and dents. Raise your arms above your head and take note of any changes to the sides of your busts and underneath your arm. With one arm raised over your head, check each breast individually with your fingertips, gently putting pressure on your busts as you move clockwise all the way around. Make another clockwise motion inwards towards your nipple, ensuring that you have covered the entirety of both busts.

The next step is to lie flat on your back, raise an arm above your head, and repeat the previous motion you performed while standing up, noting any lumps or tender points. If you do notice anything abnormal, see your physician immediately.

Another precaution to consider in your aftercare regime is receiving MRI scans. Mammograms cannot always detect ruptures in implants; however, MRIs will usually catch leaks, if any. Although not necessary, if you fear your enhancement device may leak, or you have had your implants for ten years or more, the occasional scan is a good idea as an early preventative measure.

Keeping on top of mammograms and regular bust examinations will ensure early detection of problems. Although breast implants are not proven to pose any cancer risks, you will have to take some extra precaution in order to get accurate diagnoses.