Diagnostic Mammography

Women experiencing breast symptoms such as a lump, change in breast skin or nipple discharge are candidates for diagnostic mammograms. Physicians will also order diagnostic mammograms for women who are called back after a screening mammogram to follow up on any areas of concern.

From the patient's experience, a diagnostic mammogram isn't all that different from a 3D screening mammogram, as it uses the same technology. A mammography-certified, female technologist will perform your mammogram and explain the procedure before getting started. Most appointments take less than 30 minutes, including meeting with the radiologist to discuss exam results and any further recommendations. After you check in, you will be shown to a private dressing room. You will undress from the waist up and put on a gown that opens in the front. During the appointment, the technologist will position each breast in the unit. Your breasts will be compressed in order to take images. This compression may cause some brief discomfort, but shouldn't be painful. Compressing or flattening the breast helps facilitate better X-rays so that the maximum amount of tissue can be examined while allowing for a lower X-ray dose. In certain cases, the radiologist may also need to perform a breast ultrasound during your appointment in order to further evaluate any areas of concern.

• To help minimize discomfort, schedule your mammogram during the two weeks following your menstrual cycle, when breasts are less tender.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
• If you’ve had prior mammograms, breast ultrasounds or breast MRIs at a facility other than Charlotte Radiology, you will be asked to provide contact information for the center so we can obtain these records before your scheduled appointment. Having prior records helps our Radiologists to identify any changes over time. If you would like Charlotte Radiology to request these on your behalf, please fill out our medical records release form one month prior to your scheduled appointment (it can take up to three weeks to receive records from an out of state provider).
• Please be ready to discuss medical history at your appointment, including prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
• Do not wear talcum powder, deodorant, lotion or perfume under your arms or on your breasts, as these substances can make mammographic images harder to read. Deodorant will be available after your exam.
• Wear two-piece clothing so that you only have to remove your top and bra for the exam.

After the radiologist has reviewed your diagnostic mammogram, he or she will discuss the results with you and explain any further recommendations before you leave the appointment. Your primary care physician will receive a report within 24-48 hours of your visit.

• Huntersville Breast Center
• Medical Center Plaza Breast Center
• Monroe Breast Center
• Morehead Medical Plaza (MMP) Breast Center
• Pineville Breast Center
• Rock Hill Breast Center
• SouthPark Breast Center
• University Breast Center

This procedure requires a physician referral. Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill.  Payment may be required at the time of service. Please call 980-233-5053 if you have questions about pricing, insurance coverage, and/or billing before your scheduled appointment.