Breast Implant Ultrasound
All women with breast implants should undergo regular check-ups throughout the life of the implants, regardless of whether they were used for breast reconstruction or cosmetic augmentation. The risk of developing complications, such as capsular contracture and rupture, increase over time, and these can often go unnoticed by the patient. Many women receiving breast implants are followed-up for 6 months to 1 year, but then are left to initiate their own assessments going forward.
With this in mind, Dr Hoffman established the Sydney Breast Implant Check Service which offers comprehensive breast implant ultrasound. Dr Hoffman has pursued extensive training in bedside ultrasound of breast implants at the International Breast Implant Check Clinic (IBICC) in Stockholm, Sweden, one of the most highly regarded breast implant follow-up clinics in the world, located within Victoriakliniken.
Having a specialist Plastic Surgeon perform the ultrasound rather than going to a radiology centre is beneficial, as Dr Hoffman can interpret the ultrasound images with added clinical understanding. This is combined with clinical examination, to guide future treatment options. The implant check service involves only one visit to one clinic, so it is very convenient for your busy life. Dr Hoffman will perform the ultrasound, and you will leave with an understanding of your specific implant status, and advice regarding any future care or procedures.
Why?
Along with common, long-term changes in aesthetic appearance, there are some more serious and very rare diseases related to breast implants, including Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Fortunately, this is uncommon, however it may go undetected if routine check-ups are not performed. Systemic symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss and joint pain may be associated with breast implants. The term Breast Implant Illness (BII) has been used, and researchers are investigating these symptoms to better understand their origins. In some cases, removal of breast implants for these women has resulted in resolution of their symptoms.
Extensive information and advice relating to breast implant devices can be found online at the Breast Implant Hub, by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).3

What?
During your visit, Dr Hoffman will compile a thorough history of your breast surgery from any information available and discuss any concerns you may have about the appearance and feel of your implants.
A full clinical assessment of your implants is combined with an ultrasound assessment during your appointment. This will give information on implant surface type, positioning, capsule thickness or contracture, rupture, rotation and presence of fluid around the implant.
It is important to note that this ultrasound assessment is targeted at the implant only, and does not assess breast tissue changes, nor does it replace breast screening tools such as mammography.
Who?
How?
Simply phone or email to confirm an appointment for the Sydney Breast Implant Check Service.
References
1. NSW Agency of Clinical Innovation. Toolkit for management of breast implants. Sydney: ACI; 2022. Available from: https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/networks/surgical-care/resources/management-of-breast-implants
2. US Food and Drug Administration. Breast implants – certain labelling recommendations to improve patient communication. USA: FDA; 2020.
Available from: https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidancedocuments/breast-implants-certain-labeling-recommendations-improve-patientcommunication
3. Therapeutic Good Administration. Breast Implant Hub: Breast implants – things to consider. Canberra: TGA; updated 19 Sep 2023.
Available from: https://www.tga.gov.au/products/medical-devices/breast-implant-hub

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