How long mammogram

People can minimize the discomfort by considering their menstrual cycle when booking a mammogram. As the breasts are often tender and swollen in the days leading up to a menstrual period, individuals may wish to avoid scheduling a mammogram appointment for 1 week before a menstrual period and during it.

A mammogram involves taking an X-ray of each breast while pressing it between a platform and plastic plate. The process usually involves the following steps:. A person has a screening mammogram when they have no specific problems. The purpose of a screening mammogram is to detect any signs of breast cancer as early as possible.

Doctors use diagnostic mammograms to find out more information about specific areas of the breast. An individual may have a diagnostic mammogram if:.

A 2D mammogram is the standard of care for most individuals. It creates one image from the top of the breast and a second from the side. These images can overlap, which can make the results more difficult for a radiologist to evaluate if a person has dense breast tissue.

A 3D mammogram, also known as tomosynthesis, produces a 3D image of the breast by taking multiple pictures from different angles. A 3D mammogram may detect some breast cancers that a 2D mammogram would not. It may also allow doctors to see beyond areas of density in people with dense breast tissue. Various studies indicate that 3D mammograms may be more effective in finding cancer than 2D mammograms and produce fewer false positives.

A false positive occurs when a mammogram identifies an abnormality that further testing reveals to be normal tissue. Most people receive their mammogram results within a few weeks of having the test.

The time it takes to receive the results depends on whether they had a screening or diagnostic mammogram. The PCP then mails the individual the results, which can take a few days. Alternatively, they may immediately contact the individual if the mammogram shows any abnormalities. People should talk with their healthcare team before a mammogram to determine when they can expect their results.

If an individual does not receive their results within 2 weeks, they should follow up with a doctor. The mammogram results indicate whether a person has signs of abnormalities in the breast. Abnormal findings do not necessarily mean that the person has breast cancer. However, doctors typically call back anyone with abnormal mammogram results to rule out any problems or begin any necessary treatment as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, the technician will use the machine to generate several images of your breast tissue. Some women find the compression to be a bit uncomfortable, but it typically does not hurt. It usually takes a few days for a radiologist to review the results of a mammogram. Some providers call their patients regardless of whether the results are negative normal or positive abnormal , while other centers only call their patients if a mammogram reveals something out of the ordinary.

Please call for support from a Moffitt representative. New Patients and Healthcare Professionals can submit an online form by selecting the appropriate buttonbelow. Existing patients can call Click here for a current list of insurances accepted at Moffitt. Moffit now offers Virtual Visits for patients. If you are eligible for a virtual appointment, our scheduling team will discuss this option further with you. You typically have the results within a week or two.

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What to expect 2-D vs. Screening vs. How long does a typical mammogram take? What to expect during a mammogram. How long will it take to get the results?