If you have breast implants, you probably already know that regular screening is important – but many women aren’t sure what that really means or how often they should be checked. Traditional imaging options like an MRI can feel intimidating, expensive or inconvenient, which causes a lot of women to put off screening for longer than they should.
Dr. Davis strives to make implant screening as simple, accessible and stress-free as possible. That’s why he offers high-resolution ultrasound screening to his Sacramento patients. This is one of the most effective and quickest ways to monitor your implants.
Why Breast Implant Screening Matters
Breast implants are long-lasting, but they aren’t meant to last forever. Over time, small changes can occur, some more obvious than others. The FDA currently recommends that women with silicone implants get routine imaging to screen for silent rupture, which is a rupture that shows no symptoms. Even when everything feels and looks normal, an internal change could still be happening beneath the surface. This is why routine screening is so important.
What Makes High-Resolution Ultrasound Different?
Many women assume MRI is the only reliable option for implant screening, but that’s no longer the case. High-resolution ultrasound provides clear, detailed images of the implant shell and the surrounding tissue, allowing Dr. Davis to assess implant integrity right in the office.
The biggest difference is the comfort and convenience of ultrasound imaging vs. an MRI. There’s no need for an enclosed MRI machine, no injections, no scheduling hassles and much lower imaging fees.
Most high-resolution ultrasound screenings take only a few minutes and are performed during a routine visit. You simply lie comfortably while a handheld probe glides over the breast, capturing precise images in real time. You can see what we see, and Dr. Davis will walk you through the findings right away.
For women who struggle with MRI due to claustrophobia, cost concerns or busy schedules, ultrasound can be an incredibly accessible alternative.
What High-Resolution Ultrasound Can and Can’t Do
High-resolution ultrasound is excellent for detecting implant rupture, identifying folds in the implant shell and evaluating the surrounding capsule. It’s also a great tool for routine implant health checks, especially if you want an imaging option that fits easily into your life.
However, it isn’t a replacement for mammograms or breast cancer screening. Ultrasound is designed specifically for evaluating implants, not detecting malignant changes. Most women will still need annual mammograms based on age and risk factors.
When to Schedule Your Screening
If you have silicone implants, the general recommendation is to start imaging at the 5-year mark and continue every 2 to 3 years afterward. If you’re unsure of your implant type or your last screening date, we can easily help you to determine the best schedule.
To make an appointment for screening or for more information about high-resolution ultrasound screening for breast implants, please call our Folsom office at 916-318-5770 or contact us online.
Author: Dr. Drew Davis
Dr. Drew Davis completed his residency in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University Medical Center and is proud to be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. After practicing for many years in the Bay Area, Dr. Davis has chosen private practice in the Sacramento area to allow him to provide the most personal and individualized patient care.
