You will change into a gown and remove any clothing on your top half. A radiographer will take you into the mammography room and thoroughly explain the procedure to you, and demonstrate the equipment that will be used. 

During a mammogram, your breast tissue is compressed between the mammography unit’s paddle and detector. Compression is necessary as it increases image detail, reduces radiation dose, and prevents blurring that may be caused by movement. You may experience some discomfort, but this will only last for a few seconds while the image is being taken. Please let your radiographer know if you experience pain at any point during your scan. 

A routine mammogram is usually performed in a standing position. At least two images of each breast will be taken in different positions. 

Please do not apply any talcum powder or deodorant before your mammogram, as they contain substances that can alter image quality, and can sometimes even mimic pathology. If possible, please wear a two-piece outfit, as this will make you more comfortable throughout the examination process. 

Please bring any previous mammogram images with you to our appointment. These images may be used for comparison and are extremely helpful in determining minute changes that may have occurred. 

It is also recommended that you reach out to your relatives to see if they have ever been diagnosed with breast cancer or have had tumours or other health-related issues in the chest region. This helps to form a more accurate picture of your family history as it relates to breast cancer or other related diseases. 

It is also helpful if they can provide any information about their diagnosis, including their approximate age at first diagnosis. 

When you arrive for your appointment, you will be required to complete a questionnaire detailing your presenting symptoms and any known family history. 

You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home. 

For all mammogram services, please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient. 

All measures are taken to limit the radiation dose for mammograms. All routine images are checked with the radiologist prior to any subsequent imaging being performed.  

Please keep in mind your doctor believes that the benefit of having this examination performed outweighs the very small risk to your health that is caused by exposing your body to this low dose of radiation. 

There is no specific after care required after a mammogram. You may resume your normal daily activities unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

The cost of a mammogram depends on whether you meet Medicare criteria for a rebate. Please discuss your eligibility for a rebate with your referring practitioner before you book an appointment. 

Our Customer Service Team will be able to advise you of all costs involved with your mammogram including any out-of-pocket costs.