What is a breast ultrasound?
At North Coast Radiology, a breast ultrasound is performed using sound waves rather than radiation, so there is no dose to consider and the scan can be repeated as often as your doctor needs. A sonographer guides a small handheld device called a transducer across the skin of the breast, and the real-time images are reviewed by one of our radiologists. Breast ultrasound is often used together with mammography rather than on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You will need a valid referral from your GP or specialist to book a breast ultrasound at North Coast Radiology.
Your doctor may send you for a breast ultrasound if you have noticed a specific change, such as pain in one area or a lump, or if a screening mammogram has shown something that needs a closer look. Ultrasound is particularly useful for patients with dense breast tissue, where a mammogram alone can make certain areas harder to assess.
Because the images are seen in real time, breast ultrasound also helps our radiologists take a closer look at anything found on a mammogram, including common and usually benign findings such as a cyst or a fibroadenoma.
Yes. Breast ultrasound can help assess mastitis (inflammation or infection of the breast tissue, most common during breastfeeding), including checking for a related collection of fluid known as an abscess. Your doctor will let you know if this applies to you and will manage any treatment you need.
Breast ultrasound is one of several tools your doctor may use, often alongside mammography, to look more closely at an area of concern in the breast. It cannot diagnose cancer by itself. If our radiologist identifies something that needs further assessment, your doctor may recommend additional imaging or a biopsy before a diagnosis can be reached.
A screening mammogram is offered to people without symptoms as a routine check. A diagnostic breast ultrasound, on the other hand, is generally requested by your doctor to look more closely at a specific symptom or a finding, often following on from a mammogram. It is not used as a population screening test.
There is no need to fast or change your medication before a breast ultrasound at North Coast Radiology. Choose comfortable clothing that is easy to adjust from the waist up, and bring your referral and Medicare card with you. Please arrive around 15 minutes ahead of your appointment time so we can complete your check-in.
You will lie down on an examination bed, generally on your back, and may be asked to change into a gown or adjust your clothing so the area can be examined. A two-piece outfit tends to make this easier.
Your sonographer will apply a clear gel to the skin and move the transducer over the area your doctor has asked us to examine. Most patients find the scan comfortable, with perhaps some light pressure from the transducer. Once the images have been captured, one of our radiologists will review them and send a report to your referring doctor.
Most breast ultrasound appointments run for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on what your doctor has asked us to look at.
Cost depends on the specific item your doctor has requested and your individual circumstances. Our team will confirm the expected cost with you when you book your appointment.
Most images and reports are available in the Patient Results app and web portal 7 to 14 days after your appointment. If you need them sooner, please get in touch with your referring doctor directly.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the day of your scan, or bringing another adult along to look after your child. Children cannot be present in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area, since our staff need to stay fully focused on your examination.
