What is mammography?

Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breast. It is used to detect and examine breast diseases in women who have breast problems such as swelling, pain or nipple discharge, as well as in women who have no complaints at all. The procedure can detect breast cancer, benign tumors and cysts before they can be detected by palpation

Typical clinical issues with mammographic imaging:

• Early detection of breast cancer (screening examination)
• Evaluation of lesions detected on palpation
• Breast pain (mastodynia)
• Evaluation of the extent of breast cancer diagnosed
• breast cancer follow-up

If you are unsure about the most appropriate procedure, the doctors in Switzerland will be happy to advise you.

When and to whom is a mammogram recommended?

is recommended for breast problems. A comprehensive examination. If there is a palpable mass in the breast, retraction of the skin or nipple, nipple discharge, enlarged lymph nodes in the axilla or inflammation of the breast, an immediate examination is recommended. Mammography is mandatory for people over 30/35 years of age.

For women at moderate risk and without symptoms, regular annual screening is recommended starting at age 40.

Breast ultrasound supplements mammography in women over 30/35 years of age, and in women under 30 years of age, it can be used alone or as the first screening test. It can also be used to monitor lesions that can only be detected by ultrasound, but it does not replace mammography.

The screening should primarily be done in a woman who:

• Has not given birth or has only one child;
• has a hereditary predisposition to breast pathology or cancer;
• has not breastfed or has breastfed for a short period of time;
• has a history of several abortions;
• does not have a regular sex life;
• prone to stress;
• lives in a neighborhood with a poor environment;
• obese, diabetic, has ovarian, thyroid or liver disease;
• consumes alcohol, smokes;
• Has suffered even minor trauma to the breast.

Preparation for mammography

It is best to undergo mammography at the beginning of the menstrual cycle (preferably on the 8th or 12th day after the start of menstruation). This allows the breasts to be seen more easily and the breasts are less painful during this period.

There is no need to prepare for mammography before it. On the day of the examination, it is not recommended to use cosmetic products (cream, cleansing milk, perfume, talcum powder) and jewelry. These precautions will ensure a high quality mammogram.Wear a T-shirt and a skirt or pants: it will be more comfortable. If you are taking medications, you do not need to stop taking them, but you should inform your doctor.

It's also important to send in your old scans so your doctor can compare them with the new scans and identify any changes.

How is a mammogram done?

When you have a mammogram, you stand in front of an x-ray machine. The doctor taking the X-ray places your breast between two plastic plates. The plates press your breasts down and make them flat. This can be uncomfortable, but it helps you get a clear image.

You will have both breasts x-rayed from the front and side. After this, the radiologist will read the mammogram. The doctor will check the x-ray for early signs of breast cancer or other problems. You will usually get your results within a few weeks.

Does having breast implants affect mammogram results?

Breast implants often make accurate mammogram readings impossible because silicone and saline implants are not transparent on x-rays and block a clear view of the tissue around them, especially if the implant is located in front of, rather than under, the pectoral muscle. Experienced radiologists know how to gently compress the breast to improve visibility while preserving the implant.

В лучших Swiss clinics квалифицированные врачи-маммологи не оставят без внимания ни одну Вашу жалобу и поставят правильный диагноз на основе полученного результата цифровой маммографии груди. А при необходимости назначат адекватную терапию и обеспечат надлежащее сопровождение на всех этапах лечебного процесса.