Mammography and breast ultrasound
Breast examination, including detection of changes at a stage when they still cannot be felt.
Why it is done
Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breast. Its value lies not in confirming what can already be felt, but in showing changes considerably earlier — including microcalcifications, tiny calcium deposits that are sometimes the first visible sign.
That is why mammography makes sense even when you have no symptoms. In women without symptoms it is an examination repeated at intervals, and both the interval and the age at which to start are agreed with a doctor, since family history matters too.
Breast ultrasound is a complementary examination, not a replacement. In younger women, where glandular tissue is denser and harder to read on a mammogram, ultrasound is often the first choice.
When to come without waiting
- You have felt a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
- The shape or outline of the breast has changed.
- An inverted nipple or a change in the skin — dimpling, redness, an "orange peel" appearance.
- Discharge from the nipple, particularly if it is bloody or from one breast only.
- Pain that is constant, in the same place and does not change with your cycle.
A lump you can feel is in most cases not malignant — but it is a finding to be examined, not monitored at home.
When to come and how to prepare
If you still have periods, the first half of the cycle is best — roughly days 5 to 12. The breasts are least tender then and the examination is more comfortable.
On the day, do not use deodorant, powder or cream on the breasts or underarms: particles on the skin can look like microcalcifications on the image.
Do bring earlier images and reports, even ones several years old. For a radiologist, comparison with a previous image often matters more than the new image alone.
What the examination is like
The breast is briefly compressed between two plates. It is uncomfortable but lasts only a few seconds per image, and the compression is necessary: it spreads the tissue, makes the images clearer and reduces the radiation dose needed. Usually two views are taken per breast.
The whole examination takes 10 to 15 minutes. If an ultrasound is also planned, allow another ten minutes or so.
If you are pregnant or think you might be, say so before the examination.
Prices
| Service | Price, KM |
|---|---|
| Mammography | 75 |
| Ultrasound of the breasts | 70 – 100 |
Prices are shown in convertible marks (KM). The full list is in the price list, and you can add several services up in the cost estimator.
Frequently asked questions
Does a mammogram hurt?
From what age is mammography done?
Is ultrasound enough instead of mammography?
Should I bring old images?
Book an appointment
Booking is direct, no referral needed. Call whichever clinic is closest to you, or leave a request on the contact page.