Mammography

What is a mammogram?

Mammography is offered at our Fairfield practice.

Mammography is a breast scan used  to examine women referred by their doctors. Many patients will have a  family history of breast cancer or be experiencing breast symptoms such as unusually painful breasts, newly felt lumps, nipple discharge, or some patients may have recently undergone breast surgery. Mammography has the capability to detect breast cancer often years before a palpable lump forms, offering the advantage of identifying breast cancers early.

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What to expect from a mammogram? 

Undergoing a mammogram at Direct Radiology is a simple process. Our highly trained and compassionate female mammographer works with you to capture X-rays of each breast from various angles, using a compression paddle to securely position the breast. This compression minimises blurring from movement and significantly reduces the X-ray dose. It also helps spread out the breast tissue, improving the clarity of the mammogram for interpretation.

After the mammograms are reviewed, there may be a need for additional images to focus on a denser area of the breast. Once the images are generated, a radiologist, specialising in breast imaging, will interpret them.

How to prepare for my mammography? 

If you experience breast tenderness before your menstrual period, we recommend avoiding scheduling a mammogram during this time. The optimal time for the examination is one week following the end of your menstrual period unless the examination is urgent. If you have breast implants, please inform the staff at the time of booking, as a longer appointment may be necessary.

Additionally, it is advised not to use talcum powder, cream, or deodorant under your arms or around the breast area on the day of your examination, as it may appear on the images. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to inform our staff when booking your appointment.

What do you need to bring to your appointment?

• Your referral form - please note we accept all referral forms from all providers.
• Medicare card
• Pension or concession card
• Any prior imaging

When can my doctor expect to receive the results? 

The results of your examination will be analysed by our radiologist and promptly forwarded to your doctor. Following the receipt of the results, your doctor will assess and discuss them with you.

Fees and Billing 

Mammography services incur an out-of-pocket fee due to the complexity of the examination. If you are a pension or concession card holder, please speak to our reception team regarding your billing.