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.