Will Breast Implant Surgery Show Up on My X-Ray Report?

Concerned!! How will the X-ray report be written for someone who has undergone breast augmentation surgery (with implants)?

Dear Dr.
Lu,
I have undergone breast augmentation surgery (using saline implants), and recently my company is organizing a health check-up for all employees (including X-rays, specifically a chest PA).
Your hospital will send personnel to our company, and a report will be sent directly to us.
I would like to inquire about the wording that will be included in the health check report.
For example, will it mention anything like "previous surgery" or "suspected implant" or similar phrases? Or will it simply state "normal" or "abnormal"? If the physician is aware and can identify it as breast augmentation, will it still be noted as "normal"? I would greatly appreciate your assistance in answering this question, as it is extremely important to me.
Thank you very much!

Mary, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/24

Dr. Lu Daokuan reply Plastic Surgery

General practitioners typically only note whether the findings are normal or suggestive of other disease conditions, without providing additional commentary on the implant.

Reply Date: 2007/04/24

More Info

Breast implant surgery, particularly with saline implants, can indeed show up on X-ray reports, including chest X-rays. When you undergo a chest X-ray, the radiologist will assess the images for any abnormalities or notable findings. Here’s how the presence of breast implants might be documented in your X-ray report.

1. Identification of Implants: If the radiologist notices the presence of breast implants, they may include a statement in the report indicating that there are "bilateral breast implants" or "saline implants" present. This is important for future imaging and surgical considerations, as it informs any healthcare provider reviewing the report that you have undergone breast augmentation.

2. Normal or Abnormal Findings: The report will typically categorize findings as "normal" or "abnormal." If the implants are intact and there are no complications (like rupture or displacement), the report may state that the chest X-ray is normal, with a note about the presence of the implants. If there are any issues, such as signs of rupture or other complications, the report would detail those findings.

3. Clinical Context: The wording in the report can vary based on the radiologist's observations and the clinical context. If the radiologist is aware that you have had breast augmentation, they may specifically mention it in relation to the overall assessment of your chest. For example, they might write, "Chest X-ray shows normal lung fields and heart size; bilateral breast implants noted."
4. Implications for Future Imaging: It’s crucial for any future imaging studies to be aware of the implants, as they can sometimes obscure underlying structures or mimic pathology. Therefore, having this noted in your report can be beneficial for any subsequent evaluations.

5. Patient Privacy: It’s also worth noting that medical reports are typically confidential, and while your employer may receive a summary of findings, detailed information about your medical history, including the specifics of your breast augmentation, may not be disclosed unless necessary for your care.

In summary, your chest X-ray report may indeed mention the presence of breast implants, especially if they are relevant to the interpretation of the images. The report will likely include a statement about the implants while also indicating whether the overall findings are normal or abnormal. If you have concerns about how this information will be presented or any potential implications, it’s advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider or the radiology department prior to your examination. They can provide more specific information based on your individual case and the protocols followed at their facility.

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