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Mammography Services & Treatments

Do you have breast health concerns? Get fast, accurate answers with our mammography experts and the latest diagnostic technology.

Find out more about our mammogram services:

Conditions and consultations
Diagnosis and treatments
Mammography specialists
Referrals
FAQ
Mammography locations near you

Conditions and consultations

Our team of experts offer diagnostic and screening mammograms for a variety of breast issues.

Diagnostic mammograms are conducted if you experience:

Breast lump
Breast pain
Nipple thickening
Nipple discharge
Unusual skin appearance on breast

Diagnostic mammograms also are used to evaluate abnormal findings on a screening mammogram.

Screening mammograms are used to detect breast changes that could be cancerous in people who have no signs or symptoms. Screening mammograms are conducted annually beginning at age 40.

Diagnosis and treatments

Our experienced mammography team offers:

3D digital mammography, also called breast tomosynthesis
3D digital mammography is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a 3D picture of the breast that can be analyzed as a whole or in small fractions for greater detail. For breast cancer screening purposes, the machine also creates standard 2D mammogram images.
Computer-aided detection, or CAD
CAD is an advanced technology that assists radiologists by digitizing and analyzing mammograms for suspicious regions that may be indicative of cancer.
Mobile mammography
The mobile mammography unit brings Mayo Clinic care close to home, expanding patient access to the latest 3D breast imaging technology to Minnesota and Wisconsin communities.
If your business or community organization would like more information on how to partner with the mobile mammography unit to bring breast cancer screening to your employees or your community, email mobilemammo@mayo.edu.

Supplemental breast imaging technology includes:

Breast biopsy
During a breast biopsy, a small amount of body tissue is removed and checked for disease. Breast biopsies can be performed using various imaging guidance methods, such as stereotactic-guided, ultrasound-guided and MRI-guided, as determined by the provider.
Breast ultrasounds
These are precise images of the breast produced using high-frequency sound waves, to investigate specific areas of the breast that look or feel abnormal or appear abnormal on a mammogram image.
Breast magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI
MRI is a diagnostic test which creates cross-sectional images of the breast. No ionizing radiation is used.
Molecular breast imaging, or MBI
MBI is a diagnostic test used to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue using radioactive tracers and a special camera. Both dense breast tissue and cancer appear white on a mammogram, which may make breast cancer more difficult to detect. With MBI, the tracer attaches to breast cancer cells making them appear brighter in the images. This test does not replace a screening mammogram and is recommended as a part of an overall screening plan. As part of our comprehensive cancer approach, additional diagnostic tools and treatment plans may include options available at Mayo Clinic, such as MBI.

Mammography specialists

Specially trained mammography technologists conduct the mammography, and radiologists read the images and issue the results. You will be referred to other specialties as needed.

Additional care and therapies may be provided by:

Referrals

For women who are 40 or older needing a screening mammogram, a physician referral is not needed. If you are experiencing any breast-related symptoms, be sure to mention them when you schedule so that you get the correct imaging.

For women who may be at a higher risk for breast cancer, such as family history, screening mammograms may be recommended before age 40. In those cases, talk with your primary healthcare provider for a referral.

FAQ

What should I bring for my first appointment?

For your first appointment, bring your current prescription information or medical records from non-Mayo Clinic Health System facilities. Complete a medical records release form to authorize the transfer of health records from another healthcare facility to us. Visit our Medical Record Forms page for this form and other forms in multiple languages.

When should I schedule my screening mammogram?

Screening mammograms are recommended yearly for women starting at the age of 40. Schedule the test for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender. If you haven't gone through menopause, that's usually during the week after your menstrual period. Your breasts are most likely to be tender the week before and the week during your period.

How do I prepare for my mammogram appointment?

For two weeks prior to your appointment, avoid using cream or ointments that contain zinc on your breasts. On the day of your appointment, do not use deodorants, powders or lotions on your upper body. Wear a two-piece outfit to easily change for the procedure.

What should I expect during my mammogram?

You will be given a gown and asked to remove any necklaces and clothing from the waist up.

For the procedure itself, you stand in front of an X-ray machine equipped to perform 3D mammograms. The technologist places one of your breasts on a platform and raises or lowers the platform to match your height. The technologist helps you position your head, arms and torso to allow an unobstructed view of your breast.

Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue and collect images. The pressure isn't harmful, but you may find it uncomfortable.

The pressure on your breast is released, and the machine is repositioned to take an image from the side. The process is repeated on the other breast.

What are my payment options, and do you offer financial assistance?

Screening mammograms are typically covered by commercial insurance; however, we recommend that you check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and co-pay prior to your appointment.

For women without insurance or insurance that does not cover breast cancer screening, you may be eligible for free breast cancer screening through the Minnesota's Sage Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program. Call 1-888-643-2584 or review eligibility requirements.

We serve patients in difficult financial circumstances and offer financial assistance to those who have an established need to receive medically necessary services. Learn more about financial assistance options.