Please read below FAQ for more information regarding screening mammograms offered at Millennium Medical.
What is a screening mammogram?
A screening mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. The images can show cancer before you or your health care provider can feel it (very early-stage breast cancer).
What is 3D mammography?
3D mammography, or tomosynthesis, is a type of technology that has been shown to increase the rate of detection of breast cancer. Unlike conventional mammography, which takes a picture of the entire breast in one exposure, 3D mammography takes pictures from multiple angles and uses computer processing to build those pictures into a 3D image like a movie. These 3D images find small, subtle abnormalities that are otherwise hidden by overlapping breast tissue.
Why should I get a mammogram?
Screening mammograms save lives. Early detection improves survival, increases treatment options and can result in a cure for the disease. The goal of a screening mammogram is to find breast cancer before it causes symptoms like a lump that can be felt. Even if you don’t have symptoms or family history of breast cancer, it is recommended that women between the ages of 40 and 75 get annual screening mammograms to catch cancer early, which can dramatically impact survival rates.
Why should I get my mammogram done at Millennium?
We offer new, state of the art 3D mammograms with the latest technology called digital breast tomosynthesis. This technology allows for personalized compression for a more comfortable exam, with greater accuracy, fewer false alarms, and lower radiation dose. Your mammogram results are available to your physician the next business day. Your scheduling options include walk-in appointments, and in many instances a screening mammogram can be completed during your annual appointment or at another time that is convenient for you.
How much does a screening mammogram cost?
If you have health insurance, screening mammograms are generally covered at full cost. If you don’t have health insurance, please contact us to discuss your options.
How do I prepare for my mammogram?
Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, lotion, or perfume under your arms or on your torso on the day of your appointment because these can interfere with the quality of your images. Inform the staff if you have breast implants. If you have had a mammogram somewhere else, please have the images sent to us or bring them with you. Our staff would be happy to assist you with this.
What can I expect at my appointment?
At your screening, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and wear a hospital gown. During the examination, the technologist will take two views of each breast. A high-quality study requires a level of breast compression that may momentarily be uncomfortable. Overall, you can expect your appointment to take approximately a half an hour.
When will my results be available?
At Millennium, screening mammograms are interpreted within one business day. The results are available immediately to your physician and medical staff. As a patient, you will receive a letter informing you of the results as well.