Breast implants may have led to early cancer detection for Teresa Brooks

Teresa Brooks had breast augmentation in 2006 and was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer in 2024; clinicians said her implants pushed natural tissue outward, which likely helped her notice a small lump early.

Teresa Brooks had breast enlargement surgery in 2006. In 2024, aged 52, she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer after feeling a small lump. Medical staff told her the implants had pushed her natural breast tissue toward the surface, which likely helped her detect the lump when it was small. She had a lumpectomy and removal of one implant in July 2024 and later had the other implant removed. Key facts: - Brooks chose breast augmentation in 2006 and had implants for nearly two decades. - In October 2023 she noticed rippling in one breast; an initial mammogram was reported as clear. - Seven months later she found a small lesion; a biopsy was technically difficult because the mass was attached to an implant, but a senior radiographer later completed the biopsy without rupturing it. - She was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer, underwent a lumpectomy and had one explant in July 2024; she later had the second implant removed and the tumour was reported removed successfully. - She reported both implants had ruptured without her knowing, now checks her breasts monthly, and works as an empowerment and trauma recovery coach. Summary: Her implants are reported to have shifted natural tissue outward, which clinicians say likely enabled earlier detection of a small cancerous lump. Treatment included a lumpectomy and removal of the implants, and she describes adjusting to her natural chest and continuing monthly self-checks while recovering emotionally and professionally.