Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American women. Early detection and treatment can significantly impact their survival. The keys to detecting breast cancer early are regular mammogram, regular clinical breast examinations by a trained medical professional, and knowing your own breasts. Breast cancer screening is also important for women after cosmetic surgery to the breast including breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast lift. Additionally, special care is needed for women with breast implants.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) has issued general guidelines for breast cancer detection. They currently recommend a yearly mammogram starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health. Clinical breast examinations should start about every three years for women in their 20's and 30's and annually for woman over 40. Breast self-examination is optional, however, woman should know how their breasts normally feel.

The ACS has published new guidelines for breast screening with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Screening MRI along with mammograms is recommended annually for high-risk women (greater than 20% lifetime risk). Woman with moderately increased risk (15-20% lifetime risk) should discuss with their physician the about the benefits and limitation of adding screening MRI to their yearly mammogram.

Breast cancer screening guidelines are the same for woman with breast implants and after cosmetic surgery of the breasts. Yearly mammograms are recommended for woman over the age of 40. Baseline screening mammograms are encouraged prior to surgery for all women over 40. Some plastic surgeons may recommend a baseline screening mammogram for women younger than 40 prior to cosmetic breast surgery. There are no specific guidelines regarding this issue but your risk factors may influence you and your surgeon's decision.

Breast implants have been used for cosmetic enhancement of the breast for decades. Silicone gel and saline filled implants are safe and do not cause or prevent breast cancer. FDA has approved both the silicone gel and saline filled breast implants for the use in breast augmentation and breast lift. In fact, many women will chose breast implants as part of their breast reconstruction after mastectomy for breast cancer.

Women with breast implants will require special attention during a mammogram. Most radiology technicians are familiar with breast implants and a simple disclosure is all that is necessary. Special compression views are often required, as the breast tissue needs to be isolated away from the implant.

Breast cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in American women. Early detection and appropriate treatment is the best hope for cure. Breast implants used for cosmetic breast surgery will not interfere with the detection of breast cancer. Silicone gel breast implants do not cause breast cancer or any other disease. Annual mammogram and clinical breast examination by a trained medical professional will increase the likelihood of detecting breast cancer. Although self-breast examination is controversial, women should know how their breasts feel and look and report any changes to their doctor.