Mammography

A mammography machine in a medical room, used for breast imaging.

SCREENING MAMMOGRAPHY

Mammography is a low-dose X-ray image of the breast. Screening mammography is done when there are no symptoms of breast disease, before lumps or other breast changes can be detected.

When to begin Screening Mammography

Age <40

  • At high risk of developing breast cancer. Click here to assess your breast cancer risk and discuss the results with your healthcare provider.

  • A single baseline mammogram to establish what is normal for you. This will serve as a comparison for later years.

Age 40+

  • Routine annual screening.

Benefits of Digital 3D (Tomosynthesis) Mammography

Premier Women's Imaging provides both 3D (Tomosynthesis), also known as Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT), as well as 2D digital screening mammography. Digital 3D (Tomosynthesis) mammography can increase cancer detection rates and may lead to fewer unnecessary follow-ups. This technology provides:

  • Superior image quality with crisper enhanced details for clearer diagnoses, especially in dense breasts. This allows for higher cancer detection rates, with fewer false positives.

  • Image manipulation features, including zooming and contrast adjustment.

  • Reduced need for repeat procedures or retakes by allowing image correction for under/overexposure.

  • Improved storage and faster/timely sharing of electronic images.

  • Lower radiation dose compared to film mammography.

  • Less breast compression.

DIAGNOSTIC MAMMOGRAPHY

Early physical exam or clinical warning signs for breast cancer may include:

  • Lump, visible or palpable.

  • Pain.

  • Nipple discharge.

  • Breast skin contour changes, including dimpling and puckering.

Should these signs be present, a digital diagnostic mammogram is performed. Screening mammography may also identify areas warranting additional examination, and a diagnostic mammogram can oftentimes be accommodated during the same visit.