Breast enhancement is a popular cosmetic procedure in the United States. According to the FDA, up to 10 million women worldwide have breast implants, however many are less likely to seek out an annual screening mammogram. There are myths out there that the pressure could cause an implant to burst, and this just isn’t true.
“We find that women with implants may be hesitant to get a mammogram,” says Cat Schureman, MSN, RN, director, Breast Services, Northern Light Health. “Our staff at Northern Light Health is trained on how to safely provide screening mammograms for patients with breast implants. We encourage patients with implants to come see us, and we’ll take excellent care of you during your mammogram.”
Keeping up with annual screening mammograms, starting at age 40 is important because one in eight women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. When it’s caught early, breast cancer is nearly always treatable.
Cat continues, “Mammograms are the best tool we have to find breast cancer and treat it quickly, so we can stop it from spreading to other areas of the body.”
You know your breasts best. Make sure to do a self-exam and ask your provider to do a clinical exam during your annual visit. They may find something you don’t. Here are a few common changes that you should look out for:
- New lump or mass
- Nipple changes—such as discharge, or turning inward
- Pain
- Swelling
- Skin dimpling
- Red, flakey, or thickened skin
If any of these symptoms occur be sure to talk to your primary care provider immediately. For questions about breast health, or to self-schedule your next mammogram, visit NorthernLightHealth.org.