Mammography and Breast Imaging

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

Routine mammogram screening does not require an order from a referring physician. However, if you are having new breast problems, have a recent history of breast cancer or need a follow-up to a previous mammogram, an order is required from your referring physician.

Mammograms give you peace of mind about your breast health. They can save lives by detecting breast abnormalities without signs or symptoms in their earliest stages.

The American College of Radiologists and Society of Breast Surgeons recommend women begin their annual mammogram screenings at age 40.

On the day of your mammogram, please do not use any lotions, powders or deodorant in the underarm or breast area. Because you will have to undress from the waist up, we suggest you wear a comfortable two-piece outfit.

You’ll need to bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance, if applicable, to the mammogram appointment. The Affordable Care Act dictates that routine screening mammograms be given without a co-pay or deductible. If this is not your first mammogram, also bring your previous images or have them sent to the facility prior to your appointment for comparison purposes. We can help you with this process if needed.

Discomfort during a mammogram varies from patient to patient. Most women, however, only have mild discomfort, like a pressure or squeezing sensation. Your technologist will work with you to try to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

A mammogram is a fairly quick procedure. Typically, the entire process takes about 15 minutes. After a mammogram, a technician checks the image for quality. The appointment may take slightly longer if the image needs retaking for greater clarity or because it does not include the entire breast.

Mammograms do use a small amount of radiation, but special care is taken to make sure it’s the lowest amount possible. For most women, the benefits of mammography outweigh the potential risk of radiation exposure.

3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, produces 3D images of your breast tissue in 1 mm slices, allowing for greater visibility of breast tissue. It can be done in conjunction with the traditional 2D mammogram. State law now requires that 3D mammogram screenings be covered by insurance in most instances. Please confirm with your insurance company regarding these benefits.

All women who are eligible for traditional 2D mammograms are also eligible for 3D mammography. Additionally, research has shown that a 3D mammogram is particularly helpful for women with dense breasts. However, we recommend that you check with your insurance provider to ensure it is covered under your plan.

In most cases, screening mammograms are read within a few hours of your exam. Your results will be provided by email. If an email address is not provided, a paper copy of your mammogram results will be mailed to your home.

Mammogram screenings are meant to detect abnormalities that might exist. When changes in the appearance of the breast tissue are detected, additional mammography images and/or a breast ultrasound may be required. In most cases, this does not indicate breast cancer.