Breast Augmentation: Cancer Concerns and Mammography-A Literature Review

There has been a longstanding concern about whether there is an association between breast cancer and breast implants. This concern has served as the stimulus for many studies. Although there are data to support both sides, after our critical review of the literature, several conclusions can be drawn. (1) Augmented patients are not at a greater risk than the nonaugmented population for developing breast cancer. (2) Early detection of occult cancer is possible in augmented patients. (3) Submuscular placement allows for greater mammographic visualization. (4) Eklund views (displacement techniques) should be used when obtaining mammograms in augmented patients and should be interpreted by radiologists experienced in the evaluation of augmented patients. (5) Silicone and saline implants demonstrate the same radiodensity on mammograms; neither is superior to the other. (6) The current recommendations for getting screening/preoperative mammograms are no different for augmented patients, although the ultimate decision lies with each surgeon and patient.