A mammogram is a safe, low dose X-ray procedure to visualize the breast tissue. It is performed to detect tumors, which may be too small to feel during a physical examination. As a result, many breast cancers can be found early, before they have spread to other body parts.

How often should I have one?
The American Cancer Society recommends a baseline mammogram at or before age 40 and a screening mammogram every year after.

Is it painful?
Some women experience discomfort because the breast is compressed for a few seconds. The discomfort is temporary and does not damage the breast tissue.

How long does it take?
Approximately 15 minutes.
 
Are mammograms safe?
Yes. Our facility is certified by the American College of Radiology and the Food and Drug Administration. This ensures that our equipment meets strict guidelines for quality testing. The technologist performing the exam and the radiologist who reads it have completed advanced training and have surpassed minimum requirements for certification.

What will the exam be like?
Your breast will be gently compressed on the image plate. It is necessary to spread the breast tissue evenly for better X-ray penetration and uniformity. You will most likely have two images taken in slightly different positions of each breast.

What if I have implants?
Women with breast implants should have mammograms according to guidelines for non-augmented breasts. The implant will be gently pushed back in order to visualize the remaining breast tissue. The risk of rupturing the implant is minimal.

How do I get the exam results?
The radiologist will read your films and the results will be sent to your doctor. You also will receive a letter in the mail informing you of your results. It will recommend when you should return for another exam.

Why are six-month follow-ups sometimes recommended?
It is important to closely observe benign-appearing conditions in the breast to confirm that there have been no changes over time. Breast calcifications are the most common cause. They are small deposits of calcium of varying shapes and locations. Changes in the pattern, or new calcifications, may indicate the presence of a small cancer and may require a biopsy.

PREPARING FOR A MAMMOGRAM 

How do I prepare for a mammogram?
Wear comfortable clothing, preferably a two-piece outfit. Do not wear powder or deodorant in underarm area on the day of the exam. Bring any previous mammogram films that you may have to the Diagnostic Center.

BREAST BIOPSY INFORMATION 
 
What is a breast biopsy?
It is a tissue sample that is taken from your breast using a biopsy needle (core needle biopsy) or it may be sampled during surgery (excisional biopsy). The tissue gathered is then examined under a microscope.  This is the most accurate method of diagnosing a breast mass. 80% of all breast masses are benign (non-cancerous).

What can I expect from a core needle biopsy?
Your breast will be positioned as in a regular mammogram. After compression, your skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.  It will then be injected with a local anesthetic agent. You may feel a mild sting during the injection. The biopsy needle will be inserted and small samples will be taken under guidance of the radiologist and breast imaging technicians. This type of biopsy requires no hospital stay, no general anesthetic, and virtually no recovery time. If the results are benign, it may replace an open surgical biopsy. Core needle biopsy is less expensive and leaves almost no external scarring. The procedure will take approximately one hour. It will take a few days to receive the results.

GENERAL BREAST HEALTH
 
What is breast self-examination?
All women should perform self-examinations monthly on a regular basis, preferably on the same day of each month. Self-examination, mammograms, and yearly physical exams collectively are the most effective way to detect and treat breast cancer. About 96% of all breast cancers can be detected when all three methods are used together. Every woman should become familiar with the look and feel of her own breasts so that she will be able to recognize any changes.

How do I perform breast self-examinations?
In the shower: Examine entire breast for any lumps or thickening. This is easier to feel when the skin is wet.

. Lying down: Put one hand behind your head. With your other hand on the opposite breast, work in a circle to cover entire area of breast including armpit area.

. Before a mirror: Raise both arms above your head and visually examine your breasts from the front and sides.

What causes lumps in my breasts?
Breast tissue is composed of glandular and fatty tissue. This causes a lumpy feel, which is normal. Both sides should be fairly symmetrical. Lumpiness is sometimes caused by fibrocystic disease. This is a benign condition caused by pockets of fluid in the breast tissue. Excess caffeine can aggravate this condition. Some examples of foods or medications with caffeine are coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, nuts, Anacin, Dexatrim, Excedrin, No Doz, and some medicines used for breathing difficulties, such as Theophylline and Theobromine.