Diagnostics of silicone breast implants

What is silicone implant diagnostics?

Diagnostics of silicone breast implants includes radiological examinations used to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding breast tissue, both before surgery (preoperative diagnostics) and after implant placement.

After breast augmentation or breast reconstruction, it is important to monitor the implants periodically, even if there are no symptoms, in order to detect possible complications in time.

Why is monitoring silicone implants important?

Regular diagnostics enables early detection of complications, including:

• rupture of the silicone implant (intra- or extracapsular)
• formation of a fibrous capsule (capsular contracture)
• rotation or displacement of the implant
• postoperative seromas or bleeding
• delayed wound healing
• implant extrusion
• implant injuries after a blow or fall
• rippling (implant folds visible through the skin)
• infections

Which methods do we use in breast implant diagnostics?

Depending on the indication, the following are used:

• Breast ultrasound (US) – the first-line examination, fast and non-invasive
• Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – the gold standard for assessing the integrity of silicone implants, especially when rupture is suspected
• Mammography – when needed, with special views for women with implants

When is silicone implant diagnostics recommended?

• before cosmetic breast augmentation surgery
• routine follow-up examinations after implant placement
• pain, tightness, or change in breast shape
• suspected rupture or displacement of the implant
• breast asymmetry
• after trauma (blow, fall)
• before planned implant replacement

How often should implants be monitored?

It is recommended:

• Breast ultrasound: according to the doctor’s recommendation, often every 1 year
• Implant MRI: usually 5 years after placement, then periodically or earlier if symptoms are present

More about preparation for a breast examination

For most examinations, no special preparation is required. For breast MRI, it is important to:

• inform the staff about the type and date of implant placement
• bring previous medical documentation if available
• remove metal objects before the examination
• time of menstruation

Why choose implant diagnostics at Drinković Polyclinic?

• radiology specialists with experience in breast diagnostics
• modern ultrasound and MRI devices
• precise assessment of the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue
• individual approach and expert interpretation of findings