What is a Mammogram?
Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that doctors use to look for early signs of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, so getting regular mammograms is really important. Mammograms can detect abnormalities up to three years before a self-examination. (But make sure you are continuing to do your self-examinations at home!)
When Should You Start Getting a Mammography?
The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women between the ages of 45 and 55. However, you can start at age 40 if you choose to do so. Women who are 55 and older can continue with a yearly screening or switch to every two years. It is important to talk with your doctor about family history or any other factors that may require additional screening.
What is Genius 3D Mammography™?
Here at the Women’s Centre, we use Genius 3D Mammography™ that provides 3D images and is more comfortable for the patient. Traditional mammographies consist of getting undressed from the waist up and placing each breast on an X-ray plate. The breasts are then compressed with another X-ray plate to flatten them. This allows the machine to get a clearer picture of the inside of your breasts. While necessary for cancer screenings, the procedure is highly uncomfortable and only provides 2D images, which can be limiting whenever breast tissue overlaps.
Benefits of a Genius 3D Mammography™
- Shorter compression time
- Greater comfort
- Easier to read imaging
- Detailed imaging of each layer of breast tissue
- More accurate results
- Earlier diagnosis
- Reduced callbacks
- Approved by the FDA as superior for women with denser breasts
- Detects up to 65% more invasive breast cancers than 2D imaging
- It’s covered by most major insurance companies
The Women’s Centre at Lakewood Ranch is committed to using the most cutting-edge technology available to provide the best service to our patients. Ready to schedule your mammography in Lakewood Ranch? Contact us to schedule your appointment or learn more!
