BREAST IMAGING

Mammography, Breast Biopsy And More

At Medical Center Radiologists, we offer breast imaging such as diagnostic and screening mammograms, breast biopsies and more. No matter your breast imaging needs, our experienced team is here to provide you with compassionate, expert care in a comfortable and private setting. Our team offers breast imaging services at the Comprehensive Breast Centers at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Leigh Hospital and Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View. We offer diagnostic and screening mammograms at Sentara Greenbrier Advanced Imaging Center and screening mammograms at Sentara Independence Advanced Imaging Center.

Available Breast Imaging Services

For a comprehensive list of the breast imaging services we provide, please see the list below, and click on the corresponding link to read more information about each breast imaging service.

Imaging Procedures

Interventional Procedures

Mammograms

To schedule a mammogram at a center staffed by MCR mammographers, choose a convenient location:

Older woman getting advanced imaging done, representing early breast cancer detection

What Is Mammography?

Mammography is a specialized breast imaging technique that uses low-dose X-rays to examine breast tissue. It is widely recognized as the most reliable method for detecting breast cancer at an early stage. In many cases, mammograms can reveal subtle changes in the breast up to two years before they can be physically felt, which greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

At Medical Center Radiologists, we use digital mammography, also called full-field digital mammography. This advanced technology produces high-resolution images that can be adjusted for brightness, contrast, zoom and orientation, allowing for detailed evaluation on a computer screen.

We also use Computer-Aided Detection (CAD). This system scans mammographic images to identify areas that may need closer inspection—such as unusual densities, masses, or tiny calcium deposits—by highlighting them for the radiologist’s review.

Benefits Of Digital Mammography And CAD

When it comes to breast imaging, there are many benefits to using digital mammography and CAD. Some of these main benefits include:

Digital mammograms are completed in under a minute, significantly quicker than traditional film-based systems

The ability to fine-tune digital images helps radiologists detect abnormalities more accurately

CAD assistance acts as a second set of eyes, drawing attention to areas that might require further investigation

Digital files can be saved, shared and accessed more easily than film, allowing for better continuity of care

FAQs About Mammograms

At MCR, we want your breast imaging appointment to be transparent and easy for you to navigate. Below, we have outlined some frequently asked questions about mammography to help you feel prepared for your mammography appointment.

Leading health organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend yearly mammograms starting at age 40 for women at average risk. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or carry genetic risk factors (like BRCA mutations), you may need more frequent screenings or to start screenings earlier in life.

We recommend scheduling your mammogram the week after your period, if possible. This is because your breasts should be less tender. Always notify your technologist if there’s a chance you could be pregnant.

On the day of your appointment, avoid using deodorant, lotion, or powders under your arms or on your chest, as they can affect image quality. Share any current breast symptoms with the technologist. You’ll be asked to remove jewelry and clothing from the waist up and will be provided a gown that opens at the front.

You will stand in front of the mammography unit, and your breast will be placed on a flat surface and gently compressed with a paddle. Compression is essential for evenly spreading out the breast tissue, reducing motion to prevent blurred images, minimizing the radiation dose and enhancing image clarity by reducing scatter. Typically, each breast is imaged from at least two angles. The technologist will step behind a shield during the exposure and may reposition you between views.

The entire process usually takes around 30 minutes. During the scan, you may feel pressure or mild discomfort from the compression. This is temporary and helps produce the best possible image. If it becomes painful, let the technologist know—adjustments can be made to reduce discomfort.

What Is A Breast Biopsy?

This medical procedure takes a small sample of breast tissue to be examined under a microscope. This is typically recommended when breast imaging tests, such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs, reveal abnormalities, or if there are noticeable changes in the breast or nipple, such as lumps, skin dimpling, scaling or unusual discharge.

Types Of Breast Biopsy Procedures

During your breast biopsy, we will use local anesthesia to numb the area and to make you as comfortable as possible during the procedure. The method we choose depends on the size

Breast Imaging You Can Trust

of the abnormal tissue. Common types of breast biopsy include:

In this technique, a very thin needle is inserted into the suspicious lump to extract fluid or cells for analysis.

A slightly larger needle, often guided by imaging tools like ultrasound or MRI, is used to remove several small samples of tissue, usually from an area identified through a breast exam or scan.

This method uses mammography to pinpoint the exact location of the area of concern. A small cut is made in the skin, and tissue samples are collected using a needle or a vacuum-powered device.

During this procedure, an ultrasound probe is placed on the breast to help us locate the mass. A small incision is made, and tissue is extracted using a core needle.

Guided by MRI imaging, we create a small incision and insert a needle to take tissue samples from the suspicious region.

If needed, we may remove part or all of the lump using either local or intravenous anesthesia. This option is typically used when other biopsy methods are not conclusive.

What Happens After A Breast Biopsy?

After the tissue sample is collected, it is sent to a pathology lab, where it is examined for signs of cancer. The pathology report will determine whether the lump is benign, also known as non-cancerous, or malignant, also known as cancerous, and identify the specific type of breast cancer, if present. Based on the findings, your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment strategy.

Our Locations

Medical center radiologists (mcr) logo with stylized circular design.

Decades of Trusted Experience in Radiology

6275 E Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite 300, Norfolk, Virginia 23502

 (757) 466-0089