In a screening mammogram, images are taken from two angles of each breast. One at a time, each breast will be pressed between an adjustable platform and a clear plate.
Some brief pressure is necessary to flatten the breast in order to get the clearest picture.
The entire exam typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Patients should not use deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion under their arms or near their breasts on the day of the mammogram. Patients should wear a two-piece outfit so only the top can be removed. At minimum, patients should have the name, address, and phone number of any facility where they have had a prior mammogram. Many facilities will not do the mammogram unless the past mammogram films are brought for comparison.