Mammogram
The most advanced breast imaging technology and tools to assess your risk of breast cancer are right here at Singing River.
Early Breast Cancer Detection Saves Lives
1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer. Mammograms are a type of x-ray that helps catch tumors at their earliest, most treatable stages. When caught early, the 5-year survival rate for localized breast cancer is 99%. Singing River pairs the latest 3D mammography techniques with enhanced risk assessments to help determine each patient’s risk of cancer and screening needs.
Singing River is proud to offer 3D mammograms with our enhanced risk assessment from Volpara starting September 1, 2024 for just $129—no insurance required.
When it’s time to schedule your mammogram, talk to your doctor about having a 3D Mammogram at any of our Singing River Imaging Centers. Then, call us to schedule your appointment.
3D Mammogram Technology
3D imaging is an advancement upon 2D mammograms. The benefits over 2D include:
- Detects small tumors not visible with a 2D mammogram. 3D mammography is able to detect 20-65% more invasive cancers. Radiologists are able to view sections of breast tissue in 1 millimeter sections, allowing them to detect the smallest abnormalities.
- Better outcomes by beginning treatment before tumors reach an advanced stage (metastasis).
- Superior image quality, particularly for women with dense breasts. 40% of women have dense breasts, and 2D mammography can miss over 1/3 of cancers in dense breasts.
- 3D Mammograms allow the radiologist to see through breast implants. With 2D mammography, some areas of the breast were still hidden from imaging.
- Our Mammography system, Pristina, has the lowest radiation dose of any FDA-approved 3D mammography machine—the same as a 2D mammogram.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mammograms
Who Should Get a Mammogram?
According to the American Cancer Society, women ages:
- 40-44 have the option to receive a mammogram every year
- 44 to 55 should get them every year
- 56-75 should get one every over year
What is Getting a Mammogram Like?
At the beginning of your mammogram appointment at Singing River, you will receive an enhanced breast cancer risk assessment. This assessment determines your likelihood of developing breast cancer and if additional imaging is recommended.
Do Mammograms Hurt?
If you hesitate to schedule a mammogram because you have anxiety about your comfort, our 3D Mammogram System was designed for you. It is more inviting and more comfortable than many other mammography machines, providing a better overall breast exam experience.
Designed by women for women, the new machine has a number of upgrades centered around your comfort and to ease your anxiety.
- Hand grips have been replaced with soft armrests — lay your arms down on the machine’s soft, warm surface and relax your muscles.
- Breathe! You don’t have to hold your breath during a digital, 3-D mammogram.
How Long Does a Mammogram Take?
The actual procedure for a 3D mammogram usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Can I Get a Mammogram With Breast Implants?
Yes, women with breast implants can and should have regular 3D mammograms. The 3D technology is particularly useful for imaging around implants because it provides multiple angles, allowing radiologists to see both the breast tissue and the implant clearly.
It’s important to let your technologist know if you have breast implants before the mammogram begins. This allows them to take the necessary steps to ensure your implants are safely handled and that the images captured are as clear as possible.
Make An Appointment
When it’s time to schedule your mammogram, talk to your doctor about having a 3D Mammogram at any of our Singing River Imaging Centers. Then, call us to schedule your appointment.