Peri-Implant Enhancement of the Breast: Imaging Features, Significance, and Management Strategies

Peri-implant enhancement can be seen on contrast-enhanced breast MRI, but its association with malignancy has not been described, leading to considerable variability in assessment and recommendations by radiologists. This study evaluated imaging features, management, and outcomes of implant-related enhancement.

This multisite IRB-approved retrospective review queried all breast MRI reports for keywords describing peri-implant enhancement, fluid, and/or masses (plus synonymous descriptions) and implant-associated malignancies, with subsequent imaging and chart review. Peri-implant enhancement and implant features were characterized. Assessments and outcomes were evaluated via clinical and imaging follow-up, aspiration/biopsy, and/or capsulectomy to evaluate for association of peri-implant enhancement with implant-related malignancy.

A total of 100 patients had peri-implant enhancement. Uniform thin peripheral enhancement was most common (79/100, 79%). Capsulectomy was performed in 31/100 (31%), with benign capsular fibrosis/inflammation discovered in 26/31 (83.9%). Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma was present in 2/100 (2%), both with textured implants, while 98/100 (98%) had no implant-related malignancy. MRI recommendations varied: resume routine imaging (26/100, 26%), clinical management (18/100, 18%), follow-up MRI (17/100, 17%), MRI-directed US (17/100, 17%), aspiration/biopsy (11/100, 11%), and surgical consultation (10/100, 10%).

Peri-implant enhancement is a nonspecific imaging finding with a low malignant association, especially when seen in isolation (no associated effusion, mass, or adenopathy). Implant surface texture should be considered in management recommendations; diagnostic capsulectomy is not recommended in patients with smooth implants. Additional studies are encouraged to validate nonoperative management recommendations.