 
Patients frequently ask Breast Imaging questions on breast procedures - that's why this section is dedicated to answering your most commonly asked questions.
If you have a question, which is not answered here, please email us and we will answer it for you.
GENERAL
MAMMOGRAM
BREAST SYMPTOMS
BREAST ULTRASOUND
GENERAL
Am I eligible for a Medicare rebate when I come to Breast Imaging?
A Medicare rebate is dependent on one of the following conditions:
- The patient has clinical breast symptoms or sign raising the possibility of breast cancer
- The patient has a family history of breast cancer
- The patient has previously had breast cancer
If any of these conditions apply to you, please ensure your GP has written it on your referral form.
It is Medicare policy that one of the above conditions must be indicated on the referral form for the patient to be eligible for a Medicare rebate or bulk billing.
Please note: Breast Imaging is a private practice and is not part of the government's Breastscreen WA program.
MAMMOGRAM
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is the most effective way to detect breast lumps too small to be felt. It consists of two low-dose x-rays - one taken from above, and one from the side while the breast is compressed between two surfaces. This x-ray can show the early signs of cancer, often well before a lump can be felt, detecting cancer in its early stage means it can usually be treated successfully.
What is the advantage of early detection of breast cancer?
Patients have a higher rate of survival the earlier breast cancer is detected.
What does a mammogram feel like?
The breasts are compressed for a very short time just before the x-ray is taken. This is essential to get an accurate clear picture, and to reduce levels of radiation to the breast tissue. For most women mammography is not painful, although some women do experience minor discomfort.
How long will a mammogram take?
Breast Imaging allows 30 minutes for a mammogram appointment.
Who should have a mammogram?
- All women over 40 years should have regular yearly mammograms
- Women over 25 with a specific problem
- Women with an immediate family history of breast cancer
How often should I have a mammogram?
Breast Imaging recommends that women over 40, women with a specific breast problem and women with an immediate family history of breast cancer have a yearly mammogram.
When is the best time to have a mammogram?
Premenopausal women should have their mammogram just after a period while post menopausal women can have their mammogram anytime.
What do I need to know before I go for a mammogram?
The following is important:
- Wear a two-piece outfit. You will be given a gown to put on.
- Don't wear talcum powder on the breasts or under arms because it can show on the x-ray.
- Take previous mammograms(if you have them) for comparison on the day.
- If you have breast implants please tell the radiographer before the mammogram.
- If you have particularly tender breasts consider a painkiller half an hour before.
Is a mammogram safe?
Yes, a mammogram uses very low doses of radiation.
How do I get my results?
A specialist radiologist trained in viewing mammograms will report directly to you doctor who will then discuss the findings with you.
Does a normal mammogram result mean I am okay?
A mammogram will pick up the majority of abnormalities, but there are some types of cancers that are not detected. However, if your mammogram is normal and you notice a difference in your breasts such as breast lump, dimpling of the breast or nipple discharge, see your GP promptly. Breast Imaging uses ultrasound in conjunction with mammograms if radiologist feels further investigation is required.
What else should I do?
To help detect breast cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable:
- Do a self-breast examination once a month (a week after your period begins is best).
- See your GP for a yearly clinical breast exam, starting age 20.
- For women over 40 - have a mammogram every year.
How do I book an appointment with Breast Imaging to have a mammogram?
To attend Breast Imaging see your GP for a referral.
BREAST SYMPTOMS
What kind of breast changes should be reported to my doctor?
- Any lump or thickening of breast tissue.
- A dimpling of your breast.
- Scaling of skin surrounding the nipple.
- Bloody nipple discharge.
- Any change that is different for you.
- Abnormal breast pain.
BREAST ULTRASOUND
What is a breast ultrasound?
Breast ultrasound is a technique using harmless sound waves to create an image of breast tissue.
Why is breast ultrasound used?
Breast ultrasound is used in the following cases:
- Patients who have very dense breast tissue or in whom there is a clinical abnormality, but no corresponding mammographic abnormality has been identified.
- Younger women in whom the risk of breast cancer is less.
- Pregnant women thus avoiding the use of xrays.
- Assessing the nature of lesions seen on the mammogram study particularly to determine whether a lesion may be a simple cyst (benign) or whether the abnormality seen mammographically may need to proceed onto biopsy (solid lesion).
Does breast ultrasound hurt?
Ultrasound is painless.
What should I expect from a breast ultrasound?
A water soluble gel is placed on the breast and the sonongrapher scanner slowly moves the scanning probe across and around the breast.
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