Breast Care
3D Digital Mammography
3D Screening Mammography
3D mammography, or digital breast tomosynthesis (‘tomo’), is the most advanced imaging technology for early breast cancer detection. In fact, it can help identify breast cancer as early as two years before a lump can be felt by a patient or physician. Windsong offers 3D mammograms as standard of care for all patients. Most insurance plans cover annual 3D screening mammograms at 100%.
3D Diagnostic Mammography
A 3D diagnostic mammogram can be ordered by a physician when further evaluation of the breast is needed. Diagnostic mammography may include a combination of imaging technologies and/or procedures and can provide more information about an area of concern found on a screening mammogram. It can also be helpful in evaluating patients with a history of breast cancer or those experiencing symptoms like a worrisome lump, nipple discharge or changes in the breast skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breast experts recommend that women with no breast symptoms start screening mammograms at age 40 and repeat them annually (every 12 months). Clinical data shows that early and annual screening mammograms starting at 40 have reduced breast cancer deaths by 40% when compared to less frequent exams. Most insurance plans cover these at 100% with no physician referral needed.
Women experiencing breast symptoms such as a lump, change in breast skin or nipple discharge are candidates for diagnostic mammograms. Physicians will also order diagnostic mammograms for women who are called back after a screening mammogram to follow up on any areas of concern. A physician order is required for this exam.
Your mammogram will be performed by a mammography-certified, female technologist who will explain the procedure before getting started. Most appointments take less than 30 minutes. After you check in, you will be shown to a private dressing room. You will undress from the waist up and put on a gown that opens in the front. During the appointment, the technologist will position each breast in the 3D unit. Your breasts will be compressed which may cause some brief discomfort, but shouldn’t be painful. Compressing or flattening the breast helps facilitate better X-rays so that the maximum amount of tissue can be examined while allowing for a lower X-ray dose.
To help minimize discomfort, schedule your mammogram during the two weeks following your menstrual cycle, when breasts are less tender.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
If you’ve had prior mammograms, breast ultrasounds or breast MRIs at a facility other than Windsong, you will be asked to provide contact information for the center so we can obtain these records before your scheduled appointment. Having prior records helps our Radiologists to identify any changes over time.
Please be ready to discuss medical history at your appointment, including prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
Do not wear talcum powder, deodorant, lotion or perfume under your arms or on your breasts, as these substances can make mammographic images harder to read. Deodorant will be available after your exam.
Wear two-piece clothing so that you only have to remove your top and bra for the exam.
After your exam, one of our radiologists subspecialized in mammography will review your images with you and explain any further recommendations. The final report will be make available to you through the Patient Portal within approx. 48 hours and sent to your referring provider.
Visit our Locations page for more information. Imaging modalities and associated studies vary by location. Please contact us to schedule your visit at a convenient location near you.
Request an appointment online or contact us at 716-631-2500.
Most insurance plans cover annual 3D screening mammograms at 100%; however, we always encourage patients to check their individual benefits to confirm coverage.
