Why choose a 3-D mammogram?

Our team of specialized breast imaging experts give you compassionate care combined with cutting-edge technology. 

• Our 3-D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, takes images of your breasts from multiple angles so our radiologists can thoroughly examine your images, layer by layer.
• 3-D allows better imaging and examination for women with dense breast tissue. Our experts can see the difference between perfectly normal dense tissue and potential masses that 2-D mammograms sometimes miss.
• Fine details are more visible and no longer hidden by overlapping breast tissue, which significantly reduces the need for additional screening.
• 3-D mammograms offer the lowest possible amount of radiation.

 

Prevention at every age

People in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam performed by a qualified nurse or doctor every three years. If you are in your 40s or older, we recommend an annual clinical breast exam.

These breast exams can be done during your regular check up and are an important part of your wellness routine. Your doctor or nurse will ask you questions and check for lumps or other physical changes in your breasts.

Schedule a well visit

 

Take care of your breasts

Checking your breasts every month puts you in tune with your body, so you can easily recognize any changes or abnormalities.

It’s hard to know exactly the right way to examine yourself. We can help. 

When should I examine my breasts?

The best time to perform a self-exam is the day your menstrual bleeding stops. If you are post-menopausal or do not have regular cycles, do you self-exam on the same date each month.

Do I need to do a self-exam if I’ve had a hysterectomy?

If your ovaries were not removed during your hysterectomy, then you should continue to perform self breast exams because your body is still maintaining its monthly hormone cycle. Pick a day that works best for you and do your exam each month on the same date.

What should I do if I feel something unusual?

If you feel a lump or notice anything unusual about your breasts, please make an appointment to have it checked out by your primary health care physician or your gynecologist. 

 

Five-step breast self-exam

Step 1

Look at yourself in a mirror with your shoulders straight and your hands on your hips. 
Your breasts should be their usual size, shape and color. They should look evenly shaped without any distortion or swelling.

Step 2

Raise your arms above your head, still looking at your breasts in the mirror. Use the same checklist to examine your breasts as in Step 1.

Step 3

Look for any signs of fluid coming out of your nipples. This could be watery, milky or yellow fluid, or blood.

Step 4

Lay down to examine your breasts. Use your right hand to feel your left breast, and your left hand to feel your right breast.

• Use the pads of your first few fingers to examine your breasts, one at a time. Keep your fingers flat and together.
• Use a firm, but smooth touch to feel your breast up and down, almost like you are mowing the lawn. Use a pattern to make sure you cover the entire breast.
• Use your fingers to feel the entire breast area — from top to bottom and side to side, from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.
• Use a mix of light, medium and firm pressure to make sure you are feeling all the tissue in your breasts. When you are using firm pressure, you should be able to feel your rib cage underneath.

Step 5

Stand or sit and feel your breasts again. Cover your entire breast, using the same pattern, hand movements and pressure as in Step 4.

When to call your doctor

Make an appointment with your primary care doctor or come see us at the Breast Center if you notice any of the following:

• A new or unusual lump in your breast
• Dimpling, puckering or bulging in your skin
• A nipple that has changed position or become inverted (pushed in rather than sticking out)
• Any redness, soreness, swelling or rash
• Your health and wellness is our number one priority. Our state-of-the-art Breast Center provides complete and personalized breast health care.