About Breast Ultrasounds
An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the body. Ultrasound can also be done of the axilla (arm pit) to assess lymph nodes. It sends out sound waves into your body and collects them after they bounce off tissues. A computer collects these sound waves and creates an image of the tissues. The change from known normal tissue characteristics to abnormal can be interpreted by the radiologist to further define the abnormality.
To make an appointment for breast health imaging, please call 508-830-3000 and one of our dedicated breast health team members will assist you.
Breast Ultrasound FAQs
Please find below answers to common frequently asked patient questions about breast ultrasounds.
An ultrasound is a painless test. A sonographer spreads a layer of warm gel over the breast tissue. This gel helps to conduct the sound waves. The sonographer then moves the probe back and forth over the breast tissue. Images can be seen in black and white on the nearby screen. This test can take between 20-60 minutes depending on the number of areas evaluated and if both breasts are examined.
Your ultrasound will be performed by a board certified ultrasonographer and a radiologist. If the ultrasound shows a finding that requires biopsy, a biopsy may be done at that time or done at a follow up appointment. If a biopsy is suggested and you take Aspirin, Aggrenox, Coumadin, Fish Oil, NSAIDS (such as Advil, Indocin, Ibuprofen, Motrin or Naprosyn), Plavix or Vitamin E, the biopsy will likely need to be performed at a follow up appointment.
There is no preparation necessary.