()

What to expect from a Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to look at the inside of your breasts.  It is often used when your breast surgeon wants to know more about your breast lump such as the consistency, whether it is solid or fluid (cystic).  The ultrasound is often done together with a mammogram (https://blog.teleme.co/2019/02/21/breast-mammogram-what-to-expect/).

Click to view CDI video on Breast Ultrasound Exam

Breast ultrasound is useful in the following situations

  • When the breast is dense on a mammogram. as this reduces the sensitivity of the mammogram (but ultrasound does not replace mammogram)
  • During pregnancy to avoid radiation from a mammogram
  • Young patients under the age of 40 years before mammogram screening begins
  • When a breast tissue biopsy is required using ultrasound guidance

How to prepare for a breast ultrasound

  • Do not put any powder on your breast or chest on the day of the test in case a mammogram is required on the same day for additional clinical information
  • Wear a separate top from your skirt or trousers to make it easy to change into your gown
  • An ultrasound can be done at any time during your menstrual cycle as it does not use radiation and is therefore safe during pregnancy and lactation
  • Your will be asked to lie on your back with your arms raised above your head during the procedure
  • Gel will be placed on your breast and a probe is used to assess the breast tissue and armpits
  • The gel is water soluble and can be wiped off. It does not contain chemicals
  • It would be best to ask questions about your scan only after the procedure is over. Each test takes between 10 – 20 mins depending on your symptoms

Disclaimer. TELEME blog posts contains general information about health conditions and treatments. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information is not advice and should not be treated as such. 

If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or other professional healthcare providers. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

As you found this post useful...

Share it on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?