- Reference Number: HEY1553/2024
- Departments: Breast Services
- Last Updated: 31 August 2024
Introduction
This leaflet has been produced to give you general information about having mammogram when you have breast implants. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and your mammographer but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team caring for you.
What will happen during my mammogram?
As you have breast implants the way that we will carry out your mammogram is slightly different to a standard mammogram.
You are able to stop the mammogram at any time if you decide you no longer wish to have it done. There is a very small chance that the compression may damage the implant.
We will take great care and use minimal compression to hold your breast still while we take your x-rays, however a small amount of compression is needed to hold your breast still.
It may not be possible to see as much of the breast tissue as we would in a standard mammogram.
To be able to see as much breast tissue as possible we would like to take one additional x-ray of each breast. The radiographer will compress the breast tissue in front of the implant so that small breast changes can be more easily identified. If this isn’t possible, we will explain why and carry out an extra sideways x-ray instead.
If you are concerned that your implant may be ruptured before your mammogram then please tell us. We may need to postpone your appointment while further investigations of your implant are carried out. This may mean you need to be referred to the breast clinic or to your surgeon, via your GP.
If you have previously been told that you have a ruptured implant, then we are able to perform your mammogram as long as your GP or surgeon has advised you that it is safe for you to have this done.
If you need any more information
Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to ask the radiographer performing your mammogram or contact the Humberside Breast Screening Service on tel: 01482 622300.
This leaflet was produced by the Humberside Breast Screening Service, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and will be reviewed in August 2027.
