The Next Step

Mammography is available on a clinician referred and self-referral basis. Our strict protocol allows women to self refer under certain circumstances for example where there is a strong family history of breast cancer. If you are unsure about the next step in your treatment or would like to talk in more detail about this or any of our other services please contact us.

Key Information

You may like to wear a top and trousers or skirt as you will need to undress to the waist during the procedure.

We ask you not to wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms on the day of the examination as it may affect the quality of the image.

The mammogram only takes about ten minutes so you can enjoy the rest of your day.

Mammography

Mammograms are probably the most important tool doctors have to help them examine breast tissue and in turn save lives by detecting signs of cancer as early as possible. The technique has been safely and effectively used for about thirty years.

Our Radiographer

This procedure is carried out by a highly qualified radiographer with a specialist qualification in mammography techniques so you can be assured of a high quality service.

The Procedure

 At Home

You won't need to make any special preparation for this test.

At Cornwall House Clinic

First of all our radiographer will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you might have.

They will ask you to remove clothes on your upper body, so you may find it easier to wear a top rather than a dress on the day of the procedure. They will then carefully position you so that your breast is on a special platform in the mammography unit and ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.

A clear plastic paddle is then used to gradually compress your breast to even out the tissue so no small abnormalities are obscured by overlaying tissue. It also helps to hold the breast still to ensure we get the best image we can.

This part of the procedure can be a little uncomfortable but the pressure on the breast will only last a few seconds and any discomfort should disappear as soon as the mammogram is over. The mammogram procedure itself takes around ten minutes. Occasionally your breasts may be a little sore after the procedure but this is not common.

Sometimes your mammogram will be followed by an ultrasound scan to get a further look at the breast tissue. This will be carried out by a consultant radiologist specialising in breast imaging.

A consultant will look at your results for any irregular tissue and may ask you to come and see us again if they feel that a further mammogram or ultrasound would help to better examine certain areas of the breast tissue.

The Results

We understand that waiting for the results of a test can be a worrying time. Our aim is to get accurate results back to you as quickly as possible.

Afterwards you will quickly receive the consultants report and, with your permission, we will also send a copy to your GP so that you medical records can be kept up to date.