Checking Your Breasts with Implants: A Guide for Breast Health

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Regular breast self-examinations are crucial for early detection of changes or abnormalities, especially for women with implants. At The Private Clinic, we emphasise the importance of these checks to all our patients.

How to Self-Check Your Breasts with Implants

While breast implants don’t stop you from checking for changes, they may make it a little more challenging. However, with regular checks and the right technique, you can still effectively monitor your breast health. Here’s how:

Look: Stand in front of a mirror with your arms by your sides, then raise them above your head. Look for any visible changes in shape, size, or appearance.
Feel: Using the pads of your fingers, gently but firmly feel around the entire breast and armpit area. Be mindful of any lumps, thickening, or discomfort.
Get Familiar: If you’ve recently had implants, it’s essential to perform regular checks to familiarise yourself with your new breast shape and texture. This will help you distinguish between normal post-surgery changes and anything concerning.

What to Look for During a Self-Check

When checking your breasts, keep an eye out for:

Lumps or thickened areas
Changes in size, shape, or symmetry
Persistent pain or discomfort
Nipple discharge or inversion
Swelling or redness around the implant

If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your GP or surgeon. For more detailed guidance, you can visit CoppaFeel’s guidance on checking with implants.

Mammograms with Implants

Mammograms remain a vital tool for breast cancer screening, but if you have implants, it’s important to let your mammography team know. They may need to use a special technique, such as implant displacement imaging, to get clearer views of your breast tissue. For more information, visit the NHS page on breast implants and screening.

Breast Implants and Cancer Risk

Although there is no definitive link between breast implants and breast cancer, rare cases of lymphomas associated with implants have been reported. Breast Implant-Associated Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is not breast cancer – it is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of the immune system). The FDA states that BIA-ALCL is uncommon and can be cured if caught early. If women with breast implants have no symptoms or signs of BIA-ALCL, they do not need to remove their implants.

It’s important to stay informed, and you can read our Breast Implant Safety guide for the most up-to-date information regarding your safety and well-being.

The Private Clinic: Prioritising Your Safety

At The Private Clinic, your safety and long-term health are our top priorities. If you’re considering breast enlargement surgery and want to learn more about the process, what to expect, and frequently asked questions, explore our Breast Augmentation page. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Our breast implant patients are registered with the Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry (BCIR).
We provide up-to-date information from BAAPS and BAPRAS.
Our experienced surgeons thoroughly discuss potential risks, ensuring you’re fully informed,
Our Breast Implant Safety guide is regularly updated for your peace of mind.

Remember, regular self-checks and routine mammograms are key to maintaining breast health, whether or not you have implants. If you have any concerns or questions about breast health with implants, don’t hesitate to contact us on 0333 920 2471 or use our online contact form for expert advice and support.