If your doctor ordered a breast ultrasound, you may wonder how it differs from a mammogram, and whether one replaces the other. They are complementary tests that answer different questions. Here is how they compare and what to expect from a breast ultrasound in Miami.
The Short Answer
- A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast. It is the standard screening test for breast cancer and is excellent at finding tiny calcifications.
- A breast ultrasound uses sound waves with no radiation. It is usually a diagnostic test, used to look closely at a specific lump or area of concern and to tell solid masses from fluid-filled cysts.
When a Breast Ultrasound Is Ordered
- A lump you or your doctor can feel
- A finding on a mammogram that needs a closer look
- Dense breast tissue, where ultrasound can add information to a mammogram
- Breast pain, swelling or nipple discharge in a specific area
- Checking a known cyst or benign finding over time
- Patients under 30, for whom ultrasound is often the first test for a lump
What a Breast Ultrasound Shows
- Whether a lump is a simple cyst (fluid) or solid
- The size, shape, borders and blood flow of a mass
- Lymph nodes in the armpit
- Abscesses and fluid collections
Radiologists use a standardized system (BI-RADS) to describe findings and recommend next steps, such as routine follow-up, a short-interval recheck or a biopsy.
Breast Ultrasound vs. Mammogram at a Glance
- Technology: mammogram uses X-ray; ultrasound uses sound waves.
- Radiation: mammogram uses a very low dose; ultrasound uses none.
- Main use: mammogram for screening; ultrasound for evaluating a specific area.
- Compression: mammogram compresses the breast; ultrasound uses light pressure only.
- Dense breasts: ultrasound can help see through dense tissue.
Ultrasound does not replace a screening mammogram. Follow your doctor’s advice on screening for your age and risk. Imaging Nation Diagnostics performs breast ultrasound; your physician can refer you to a mammography provider for screening mammograms.
How to Prepare
No special preparation is needed. Wear a two-piece outfit, since you will change into a gown from the waist up. Skip deodorant, lotion and powder on the day of your exam. Bring your physician’s order, photo ID and any prior breast imaging reports, which help the radiologist compare.
What to Expect
You lie on your back with your arm raised above your head. The sonographer applies warm gel and moves the transducer over the area of concern and, if ordered, the armpit. The exam usually takes 20 to 30 minutes and is painless.
Results
A board-certified radiologist interprets the study, and the report is sent to your ordering physician within 48 business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a breast ultrasound replace a mammogram?
No. Ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that complements mammography; it does not replace screening mammograms.
Does a breast ultrasound hurt?
No. You may feel light pressure from the transducer, but there is no compression and no pain.
Is breast ultrasound safe?
Yes. It uses sound waves only, with no radiation.
Book a Breast Ultrasound in Miami
Schedule online or call 786-353-9160, Monday through Friday. Explore our other ultrasound services, including soft tissue ultrasound for lumps elsewhere in the body.
