A 3D screening mammogram uses advanced x-ray technology to capture multiple images of the breasts. During the exam, each breast will be compressed between two surfaces, one of which may be a curved SmartCurve paddle designed to more comfortably contour to your breast.

How does a 3D Mammogram work?

The 3D mammography machine moves in an arc over the breast, capturing multiple images while the breast remains stable. Compression will only last several seconds per breast and is necessary for capturing clear, accurate images. Once the exam is complete, a breast radiologist will evaluate the images for signs of cancer, as well as breast tissue density and non-cancerous findings.

If you are a new patient, you will need to send any previous mammography records to Solis Mammography prior to your appointment. Your old records will be compared to your new exam images for a thorough evaluation by our breast radiologists. At your appointment you will check in and then undress from the waist up. We provide comfortable privacy capes to wear during your visit. A highly-trained mammography technologist, who is skilled at getting the highest quality images, will guide you through the exam. Solis Mammography provides email results typically within two business days.

How long does a screening mammogram take?

Plan for your appointment to last between 30 minutes to an hour. Many women schedule their mammograms during their lunch break or in between other activities. Solis Mammography makes the process as easy and quick as possible with online scheduling, digital iPad check in, and results delivered via secure email in two business days.

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in women, with more than 260,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed in the United States each year. Mammograms are considered to be the single most effective screening test for breast cancer. In fact, there is no other cancer screening test in medicine as effective as mammography.

The Society of Breast Imaging, the American College of Radiology, and additional leading breast health organizations, recommend annual screening beginning at age 40. Your first mammogram, also known as a baseline, typically occurs between the age of 35-40 depending on genetic and personal risk factors or upon the advice of your physician. 

It is recommended that women age 40 and older of average risk receive a screening mammogram once per year. While breast cancer is not preventable, it is curable if detected early. An annual screening mammogram coupled with monthly breast self exams is the recommended breast health regimen for women over 40.

Yes, our mammography technologists are trained to perform exams on women with breast implants. Please note, however, that we may not be able to use SmartCurve. Your technologist will determine this at the time of the exam.

2D mammography takes two x-ray images of the breast, one from the top and one from the side. 3D mammography takes multiple images from many different angles. It provides better visualization, an improvement in early breast cancer detection, and a reduction in unnecessary callbacks. It also provides greater screening accuracy for women with dense breasts.

If an abnormality is found during a screening mammogram, you will be contacted to return for a diagnostic mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram is similar to a screening mammogram, however, it includes additional views of a specific area of the breast. Your diagnostic mammogram will be reviewed by a breast-specialized radiologist, who will share the results in a consultation with you before you leave your appointment.

Solis Mammography has locations near you across the United States.  You can select the Solis Mammography location closest to your work or home. If you are a first-time patient, we can help you transfer your records from your previous provider with ease.