Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is a crucial preventive measure that involves various tests to detect breast cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear. Preventative screenings allow for early detection, which significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The Breast Center of New Jersey’s comprehensive breast cancer program focuses on breast screening and prevention, providing a continuum of services from genetic counseling and screening all the way to post-mastectomy support.
Procedure Time
15 - 60 Minutes
Treatment Location
Our Surgery Center (Outpatient)
Scar Type/Location
Minimal
Sedation
Local
Recovery Time
None

Breast Cancer Screening

Breast cancer screening is a crucial preventive measure that involves various tests to detect breast cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear. Preventative screenings allow for early detection, which significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. The Breast Center of New Jersey’s comprehensive breast cancer program focuses on breast screening and prevention, providing a continuum of services from genetic counseling and screening all the way to post-mastectomy support.

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Benefits of Breast Cancer Screening

Patients should consider getting  breast  screening to detect cancer early when it is most treatable. Early screening and detection save lives by catching breast cancer  before any symptoms appear. Regular breast cancer screenings are recommended for routinely monitoring your breast health.

 

Benefits of breast cancer screenings: 

  • Detecting breast cancer at its most treatable stage
  • Increased chances of successful treatment and survival
  • Gaining peace of mind and staying proactive about breast health
  • Access to comprehensive breast care services if further treatment is needed
  • Identifying risk factors and receiving personalized prevention strategies

Are You a Candidate?

Breast cancer screening is generally recommended for women at average risk starting at age 40. However, those with higher risk factors may need to begin screening at an earlier age or get screened more frequently. Good candidates include women age 40 with no symptoms. Also, those with a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations linked to breast cancer, or other risk factors like dense breast tissue. 

Pregnant women are not typically recommended to get breast cancer screenings and should discuss the timing of mammograms with their doctor. Those who have recently undergone a mastectomy also typically do not need screening on the affected side, unless there is remaining breast tissue.

What to Expect

Before Your Screening

Prior to your breast cancer screening, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a gown provided by the facility. It is best to avoid using any deodorants, powders, or lotions on the day of your appointment, as these products can interfere with the imaging. Once you are ready, the technologist will guide you through the next steps.

During Your Screening

For a screening mammogram, each of your breasts will be positioned on the mammogram machine one at a time. Another plate will then briefly compress your breast tissue to capture clear images from multiple angles. This compression only lasts for a few seconds per image but can cause temporary discomfort or pinching. The entire mammogram usually takes around 15-30 minutes.

If a biopsy is needed after an abnormality is detected, the procedure is similar but also involves numbing the area with local anesthesia before a small tissue sample is removed from the breast. Biopsies generally take 30-60 minutes.

After Your Screening

Following a screening mammogram, you may experience mild breast tenderness from the compression, but this should subside quickly. After a biopsy, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and soreness in the area for a day or two. Most patients are able to resume normal activities right away, but your technologist will provide specific aftercare instructions. Your doctor will send you your screening results within 1-2 weeks to discuss any findings and determine if follow-up is needed.

Recovery

For Screening Mammograms:

There is very minimal recovery needed after a standard screening mammogram. You may experience some temporary breast tenderness, bruising, or skin discomfort in the area that was compressed during the imaging. However, these effects are typically mild and should go away within a day or so. Most women are able to resume their normal daily activities immediately after a mammogram screening.

For Breast Biopsies:  

The recovery process after a breast biopsy takes a bit more time. You can expect some bruising, swelling, and pain or discomfort in the breast area where the biopsy sample was taken. Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve any discomfort. Your doctor will likely advise you to avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

Some fluid or discharge from the biopsy site is normal initially. However, if bleeding or swelling increases instead of subsiding, be sure to contact your doctor. Most women are able to return to their typical routines within 1-2 days after a breast biopsy, as long as they avoid any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for the first week. It is important to carefully follow your doctor's specific post-biopsy care instructions to reduce the risk of complications and optimize healing.

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Patient Resources

Visit our Patient Resource Center online to access useful information such as intake forms, tips for your first appointment, ways to prepare for surgery, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should you get your first mammogram?

Most experts recommend starting mammograms at age 40 for women of average risk. However, some guidelines suggest beginning earlier or later depending on individual risk factors, so it's best to consult your healthcare provider.

How should I prepare for a mammogram?

Avoid using deodorants, lotions, or powders on your chest and underarm area on the day of the exam, as they can interfere with the imaging. Wear a two-piece outfit to make undressing easier, and bring any previous mammogram results for comparison.

How long does a mammogram take?

The procedure itself typically takes about 10-15 minutes. With prep and positioning, the whole process can last around 30 minutes.

Are there any risks or side effects from mammograms?

Mammograms use very low levels of radiation, and the risk of potential harm from this radiation exposure is extremely low. The benefits of screening outweigh this minimal risk.

Can breast implants affect mammogram accuracy?

Yes, breast implants can make it slightly more difficult to visualize all breast tissue. Additional views may be required to evaluate implant-displaced breast tissue fully.

How often should I get screened if I have a family history of breast cancer?

For those with a first-degree relative diagnosed, annual screening mammograms are typically recommended beginning 10 years before the relative's age at diagnosis.

How often should you get a mammogram if there's no family history?

For women with no family history of breast cancer, annual or biennial mammograms are usually recommended starting at age 40, though this can vary by individual factors.

Will my health insurance cover breast cancer screening?

Most health insurance plans cover the full cost of screening mammograms every 1-2 years for women over 40 with an average risk, as required under the Affordable Care Act.

Are there any ways to reduce my risk of a false positive result?

Avoiding scheduling during the week before your period when breasts may be tender and denser can reduce false positives. Also, describe any hormone therapies prescribed to you.

What happens if an abnormality is found during screening?

If an abnormality is found, you may need further diagnostic testing, such as additional mammogram views or an ultrasound. Some cases require a biopsy to determine if cancer is present.

Take Charge of Your Breast Health Today

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Insurance Information

The Institute participates in a wide range of insurance plans, including those listed below. However, each physician has their own accepted insurance and hospital affiliations. Before scheduling an appointment, please contact your insurance carrier to confirm your provider is in-network.

If we are not an in-network provider, our friendly insurance specialists will help you find the most coverage available for your treatment. 

  • Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
  • Medicare
  • Railroad Medicare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Oxford (Freedom, Liberty)
  • MagnaCare
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Take Charge of Your Breast Health Today

In partnership with The Institute, The Plastic Surgery Center, and Premier Surgical Network, we offer numerous treatment locations across New Jersey.