Mammography does expose you to some radiation. However, today's refined mammography equipment is designed so that this exposure is minimal. Screening mammography is performed on women without symptoms who are over the age of forty. The purpose is to look for any early signs of breast cancer. The majority of these mammograms show no abnormality.
Diagnostic mammography is performed to resolve a particular question related to the breast.
If an indeterminate abnormality is seen on a screening mammogram Diagnostic mammography often includes extra mammographic views. These may be magnified or performed in different positions. You may be referred for a mammogram by your primary care doctor or you may contact us directly. This may be performed at an earlier age if there are any signs or symptoms, or in women with a family history of breast cancer. After age fifty an annual mammogram is recommended.