Breast Implants in Chest CT Scans: What Can We See?

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Authors: Bruno Lima Moreira, Marcela Caetano Vilela Lauar, Vinicius Bezerra Nobre, Sofia Bezerra Maksoud, Carla Cristina Teixeira Polimeni Benetti, Aline Campos Oliveira Mello, Fernanda de Castro Silva Amorim, Pablo Rydz Pinheiro Santana
Cited by: 0
References: 10

Abstract

Breast augmentation with implants is a widely performed procedure for cosmetic, reconstructive, and congenital correction purposes. As a result, breast implants frequently appear on chest CT scans conducted for various clinical indications, including recent emphasis on COVID-19 pneumonia. Radiologists are presented with opportunities to incidentally identify findings related to breast implants, some of which are clinically significant. Although MRI is the preferred method for evaluating breast implants due to its high sensitivity, CT scans can detect several implant-related findings and should not be overlooked. Radiologists must be adept at recognizing and assessing breast implants, distinguishing normal appearances from abnormal findings in routine chest CT scans, and contributing to timely intervention and patient management when complications are depicted.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Breast Implant and Reconstruction Facial Rejuvenation and Surgery Techniques Digital Radiography and Breast Imaging

Publication details

Journal / source
Contemporary Diagnostic Radiology
Volume
49
Issue
3
Pages
1–7
Publication date
2 January 2026
Language
EN