subject: How the New TSA Screening Affects People with Breast Implants [print this page] How the New TSA Screening Affects People with Breast Implants
There's been a lot of talk lately about the new full body scanning systems now being used in American airports. Some travelers are comforted by the extra security, but others have been outraged to learn that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers are viewing "nude" images of their bodies.
You may be surprised to learn that the scanners can detect artificial devices in the body including breast implants. If you're selected to go through one of the more sophisticated scanners, security personnel will be able to recognize your breast implants and any other implants you have.
In order to have more peace of mind with this new security technology, you may want to visit the TSA website so that you can better understand the technology. On the site, you will learn that:
The TSA officer who views your image is NOT the same person who interacts with you in person.
The TSA officer who interacts with you in person does NOT view your image.
The two communicate through headsets to keep the process anonymous.
Assuming no potential threats are found, your image is discarded immediately. According to TSA's website, "The image cannot be stored, transmitted or printed, and is deleted immediately once viewed."
If you're curious what TSA officers view with the new equipment, click here to see actual images. The new technology does reveal more than previous machines, but the images are still blurry and in no way could be considered "pornographic".
If you have implants, TSA's website says, "It is recommended (but not required) that you advise the security officer that you have an implanted pacemaker, other implanted medical device, or metal implant and where that implant is located." The main concern is for people who have implants containing metal. If you have implants with no metal parts, such as breast implants, there is really no need to discuss it. If necessary, you may tell TSA offices you have "no implants with metal parts".
TSA officers are very accustomed to seeing all types of implants but their only concern is about people sneaking through security with something harmful to you and other passengers. So, enjoy your trip with no worries about implants and the new security technology.
