Most, if not all, women know the importance of receiving a mammogram to check for healthy breast tissue. Mammograms are a vital part of women's health as they begin to age to protect against breast cancer. But did you know that mammograms may be required by doctors prior to breast surgery?
When receiving elective breast surgery such as a breast augmentation, a breast lift, or a breast reduction at Silk Touch Cosmetic Surgery & Medspa, there are a few pre-surgery preparation steps that must be taken. Depending on your family medical history and age, one of these preparations may be getting a mammogram.
When to Get a Mammogram
According to the American Cancer Society women at an average risk of breast cancer should follow specific guidelines on when to get a mammogram. These guidelines are as follows:
- Women age 40 to 44: optional mammograms annually
- Women age 45 to 54: mammograms annually
- Women ages 55 and older: mammograms every other year or optional yearly mammograms
What is Considered "Average Risk?"
Women who are at an “average risk” include those who have not had breast cancer in the past, who do not have a strong family history of breast cancer or the BRCA gene, and who have not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30. These guidelines may differ for those who are at a high risk.
Breast Surgery at Silk Touch
At Silk Touch, Dr. Nealy follows these guidelines as well as those set by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which state that doctors should only have patients tested when necessary.
If you do not meet these requirements then it is likely that you will not have to receive a mammogram prior to your elective breast surgery. Any additional questions you may have can be discussed with the doctor at your consultation. For more information on how to prepare for your breast surgery consultation visit our website or call us at 208-939-3110.
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