Breast health

Our Breast Center offers a full spectrum of screening, diagnostic and interventional services, including:

• 3D artificial intelligence (AI) computer-aided detection (CAD)
• Breast reconstruction
• Breast surgery
• Digital 2D and 3D screening mammography
• Digital 2D and 3D diagnostic mammography
• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone densitometry
• Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Breast ultrasound
• Minimally invasive 3D stereotactic breast biopsy
• Minimally invasive MRI breast biopsy
• Minimally invasive ultrasound-guided breast biopsy
• Needle localization procedure for surgical biopsy
• Sentinel node injection

We encourage women to be proactive about their breast health through monthly self-exams, clinical breast exams and annual mammogram screenings. Consult your physician about the frequency and type of screening that is right for you.

If you would like to schedule a breast exam, please call (800) 617-7095.

Mammograms are the gold standard for finding breast cancer in its early stages. Digital mammograms use special X-ray equipment that capture images that radiologists can manipulate on a computer. These enhanced images allow doctors to target areas of concern that may require additional testing more easily.

Digital images can be stored permanently and a physician can use them to better differentiate cancerous tissue from healthy tissue. A technologist will view the images of the breasts at the computer workstation to ensure quality images have been captured for review. Then, a radiologist will examine the images and report results to you and/or your referring physician.

What is the difference between 3D mammograms and 2D mammograms?

A 3D mammogram (breast tomosynthesis) is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a finely-detailed three-dimensional picture of the breast. 3D mammograms can detect breast cancers and other breast issues.

What are the benefits of 3D mammograms?

With 3D mammography, the radiologist views high-resolution images of different layers of breast tissue. Combining a 3D mammogram with a standard mammogram can:

• Enable us to detect more cancers (compared to standard mammograms alone)
• Reduce the need for follow-up imaging
• Improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue

How does a 3D mammogram work?

You and a female imaging technologist will be the only ones in the room during the mammogram. You will be asked to remove any jewelry and clothing from the waist up.

Similar to the conventional mammogram, a technologist will position one breast at a time on the imaging equipment. To get a high-quality picture, the mammogram compresses the breast for a few seconds. You may feel some discomfort, but it is not harmful. A memory foam pad is used to help reduce this discomfort.

The 3D mammogram machine will move above you from one side to the other as it collects images. The pressure on your breast is released, and the machine is repositioned to take an image of your breast from the side. The process is then repeated on the other breast.

The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes.

Is a 3D mammogram covered by my insurance?

Contact your insurance provider to confirm if this mammogram is covered by your insurance. If you are due for your annual screening, most 3D mammograms are covered with a physician’s order.

Tips for the day of your mammogram

To help make you more comfortable during your imaging appointment, we offer options like the memory foam mammogram comfort cushion and curved breast stabilization program.

The tips below can also help you better prepare for your mammogram:

• Wear a two-piece outfit.
• Do not apply deodorant, powder or lotion on or around the breast or underarm areas.
• Schedule the test for one week after your period, when your breasts are less like to be sore or tender.
• If your last mammogram was performed at another facility, ask that facility to send the images to us. This helps the radiologist compare the two sets of images for any changes.
• If you have insurance, bring your card with you. You may also pay with cash, check or credit card.
• A physician order is required if you are receiving a diagnostic mammogram (this is usually ordered if you have lumps or are experiencing pain and/or discharge).

Some women, such as those with dense breast tissue or certain genetic risk factors, may require additional imaging, including breast ultrasound. A breast ultrasound procedure studies a specific area that has been identified on a mammogram or a lump that has been identified through a self-breast exam. This imaging exam can determine the difference between a cystic or solid mass in the breast.

Breast ultrasounds are used in combination with mammography. However, they have a limited scope, so breast ultrasounds cannot be used as replacements for mammograms.

If breast cancer is detected, we provide a comprehensive oncology program. Our oncologists, breast cancer specialists and other staff members work together to craft a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

We will be by your side, from diagnosis and treatment through recovery. Our oncology nurse navigators will also serve as your resource throughout your care.