A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that is used to screen for breast cancer. Mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable. It is important to get a mammogram as recommended by your doctor. The X-ray image is then examined by a radiologist, who looks for any abnormal areas.
How to Prepare for Your Mammogram
Your mammogram is a quick, painless, and inexpensive way to check for breast cancer. It’s also a very important test that can help prevent breast cancer. If you’re getting a mammogram, here are some things to keep in mind before your appointment.
- What to Wear
Wear a loose-fitting top and bottom that covers your breasts and abdomen. If you’re going to be sitting, wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt. If you’re going to be standing, wear a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
- What to Bring
Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and your prescription medicines.
- What to Expect
You may be asked to remove your clothing, so be prepared for that. Your doctor may also ask you to change positions to get a better view of your breasts.
- What to Expect After Your Mammogram
After your mammogram screening in Fair Lawn, NJ, you may be asked to return to the radiology department to have your film processed. Your doctor will explain what to expect.
- What to Do After Your Mammogram
Your doctor will tell you when to return for your follow-up appointment.
If you’re not sure if you have breast cancer, ask your doctor. Your doctor may recommend a biopsy. A biopsy is a test that’s used to remove a small piece of tissue from your breast to check for cancer.
The mammogram Procedure
- The mammogram procedure typically starts with the patient undressing from the waist up and putting on a gown.
- The patient then stands in front of the mammography machine, which has two x-ray plates.
- One plate is placed behind the breast, and the other plate is placed in front of the breast. Your breast will be placed on a platform and compressed with a paddle. The compression helps to get a clear image of the breast tissue.
- The machine then takes an x-ray of the breast.
- The x-ray is then read by a radiologist, who looks for any abnormalities.
During the mammogram, you will be asked to stand in front of the X-ray machine. The X-ray image is then taken. The whole mammogram procedure takes about 15 minutes.
Conclusion:
A mammogram is an important tool in the early detection of breast cancer. It is important to get a mammogram as recommended by your doctor.