Breast Ultrasound FAQs
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- Our team will provide any specific instructions at the time of booking and these should be followed carefully.
- Please arrive early for your appointment as you will need to change into a gown. We recommend wearing a separate top and bottoms during your appointment as this makes changing for the examination easier.
- If you are having a mammogram as well as a breast ultrasound, we ask that you refrain from using deodorant or lotions on the area, as this can interfere with the quality of the mammogram images. If you are only having a breast ultrasound then this does not apply.
- On arrival, please present to reception. You will be asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire which gives the radiologist important medical information which aids in the reporting of your ultrasound images.
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You will be asked to lay down on a bed and your breast will be exposed throughout the examination. Some women may find this a little awkward, but our sonographers are discreet and professional and will do everything they can to make you feel comfortable.
The sonographer will place gel on your breast and will then move the ultrasound probe over the breast and armpit, ensuring the whole breast is imaged.
The sonographer and radiologist will work together during an appointment to ensure all the necessary images are captured. This means that sometimes, the radiologist will come into the room. You will be consulted before this happens.
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A breast ultrasound generally takes up to 30 minutes.
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All Queensland X-Ray ultrasounds are performed by sonographers who are highly trained and accredited professionals. Our quality team consist of male and female sonographers who are qualified to perform all ultrasound imaging examinations including breast imaging.
If you would like to ensure a female sonographer performs your scan, then please consider booking at one of our Women’s Imaging Centres.
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A breast ultrasound is a type of breast imaging test that a doctor may order to check for various abnormalities in the breast. Here are some of the medical conditions that a breast ultrasound can help detect:
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Breast Lumps
- If you have a lump in your breast, an ultrasound will help your doctor determine whether it is a fluid-filled cyst, a solid tumour or dense breast tissue. It also allows them to determine the location and size of the lump.
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Breast Cancer
- Breast cancer screening with an ultrasound can help determine whether changes in the breast are caused by a non-cancerous tissue or a breast cancer based upon the shape, location, and other characteristics visible on ultrasound. However, breast ultrasound results cannot always determine if a solid lump is cancerous, and other forms of breast cancer detection may be needed beyond the initial ultrasound.
- You may be referred for both a mammogram and breast ultrasound. Once women are over 40, the best way to screen for breast cancer is to have combined mammogram and breast ultrasound imaging, where the radiologist can correlate findings from each test on the same day.
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Breast Implant Issues
- A breast ultrasound may be used to check for leaks or other problems with breast implants.
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Breast Tissue Changes
- An ultrasound may be performed after a mammogram to help clarify any areas noted by the radiologist or your doctor may request an ultrasound due to changes in your breast such as pain, skin or nipple changes, or palpable lumps.
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How much will it cost?
Fees for radiology procedures will vary depending on a variety of factors. We will advise you about the cost of your service at the time of booking but if you do have any questions, contact us and one of our team will be happy to help with your query. You can read more about our billing information here.
How do I access my images?
At Queensland X-Ray, we provide our patients with their images and results online. To access your images and results, you’ll need to register for an account when you visit one of our practices. If you’ve already registered, you can access the Patient Portal here.