Mammography available at: Auburn, Burwood, Campsie, Norwest, Pennant Hills, Rouse Hill & Strathfield
3D Tomosynthesis Mammography available at: Campsie, Norwest, & Rouse Hill

A Mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast taken with a specialised device that compresses the breast to maximise image quality. A mammogram can aid in detecting any lumps in the breast and determine whether the lump is part of glandular tissue, a cyst or a lesion.

Overview

Medical Imaging Australia offers expert care by compassionate female radiographers

Preparing for a Mammogram

Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card to your appointment. Bring all previous mammograms and reports along with you. Please be on time to ensure that there is enough time available to perform the procedure.

It is recommended that you wear two-piece clothing. Some toiletries can produce unusual appearances on the films, so please do not use deodorant or talcum powder on the day of your mammogram.

Please inform the radiographer prior to the examination if you are or if you suspect you may be pregnant.

Scanning

This can cause some discomfort, but is essential to obtain clear images.If your breasts are particularly tender on the day it might be wise to delay the test until your symptoms settle — you should discuss this with our staff.

It is not uncommon to need further views. Although each image takes only a moment, the whole procedure can take 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Your mammograms will also need to be compared with any previous mammograms. This comparison is an extremely important component of the test so please remember to bring previous mammograms with you.

ResultsIf you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff.

FAQs:

How long does the examination take?
The whole procedure can take 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

Does compressing the breast do any damage?
For most women, compression causes discomfort for merely a few seconds.

Can I have a mammogram if I have implants?
Yes, mammography is generally safe for women with implants.

There is an extremely small chance that the pressure placed on the implant by the mammography machine could cause the implants to rupture or break. Our staff are highly trained in performing mammograms on patients with implants.

It is important to notify reception when booking in your mammogram that you have implants. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Why do I need an ultrasound as well as a mammogram?
Often a mammogram is supplemented by a breast ultrasound examination.

Is a female performing my mammogram?
Yes. One of our highly trained and compassionate female radiographers will be performing the mammogram in a comfortable and private room.

What if a lump is found?
Depending on the results of your test your doctor may ask for a biopsy. This can be performed using either ultrasound or mammogram. Your referring doctor and the radiologist will decide on the most appropriate imaging technique to target the area of interest in the breast.For more information on biopsies please see Image Guided Biopsy.

Will the radiographer performing my scan tell me what’s wrong?
It is the radiographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are of high quality for the radiologist (specialist) to interpret them.