To learn more about mammography and mammograms, click here.

I have breast implants. Can I still have a screening mammogram?
Please tell us when you make your appointment if you have breast implants. In some cases, the implants may hide some breast tissue and cause problems in reading the mammogram. In some cases, you may not qualify for a screening mammogram.

Is there anything I should do other than have an annual mammogram?
In addition to annual mammograms, the American Cancer Society also recommends clinical breast examinations by a trained health professional and monthly breast self exams beginning at age 20. Clinical breast exams should be done every three years until age 40 and then once a year.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Breast cancer may not cause any symptoms in its earlier stages. The most common sign is a lump or thickening in the breast. Other symptoms may include:

• Swelling in part of the breast
• Skin irritation or dimpling of the skin
• Nipple pain or the nipple turning inward
• Redness or dry, flaky skin around the nipple or on the breast
• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
• Lump in your underarm area

When will I get my results?
Your mammogram will be read by a radiologist, a physician specially trained to look at X-ray images including mammograms. A written report of the findings will be sent to your physician. You will receive written notification of your results as well.

What if you find something?
If the radiologist sees something on your mammogram that needs further studies, you and your doctor will be notified so that we can schedule a more complete diagnostic study. Please remember that not everything found on a mammogram is cancer. Other tests such as breast ultrasound, MRI and biopsy may be needed to help your doctor make a diagnosis.