Breast Ultrasound

An ultrasound of the breast enables the detection and identification of most breast lumps and allows doctors to differentiate between cysts and solid lumps.

Breast Ultrasound

An ultrasound of the breast enables the detection and identification of most breast lumps and allows doctors to differentiate between cysts and solid lumps.

What is a breast ultrasound?

Ultrasound of the breast helps to distinguish fluid filled lumps in the breast (cysts), from solid lumps which may be cancerous or benign (non-cancerous). It is often useful to examine the breasts of younger women because the breast tissue is much denser than it is in older women, and this density can make it harder to detect an abnormality if a mammogram is performed.

Ultrasound is also used to diagnose problems such as complications from mastitis (an infection that occurs most often during breastfeeding), to assess abnormal nipple discharge, problems with breast implants, and to guide the placement of a needle during biopsies.

How much will my examination cost?

Fees for radiology tests can vary and depend on a number of factors. Please make an enquiry with us by phone or email to get a quote for the service you require. ACC co-payments may apply.

We accept all radiology referral forms.

Waikato
Phone: 0800 426 723
Email: Booking.Waikato@i-med.co.nz

Rotorua
Phone: 0800 466 564
Email: Booking.Rotorua@i-med.co.nz

Bay of Plenty
Phone: 07 544 5993
Email: Bookings.bop@i-med.co.nz

Taranaki
Phone: 06 759 4317
Email: bookings@taranakiradiology.co.nz

How do I prepare for a breast ultrasound?

No preparation is necessary for this examination.

It is advisable to wear a two piece outfit so that only your top has to be removed to provide access to the breast area.

What happens during a breast ultrasound?

You will be asked to lie on a bed and one breast at a time will be examined.

Gel (a water-based jelly) is applied to the skin and an ultrasound probe (called a transducer) is placed on the breast and gently moved around the breast to examine the breast tissue. This produces pictures on a screen of the tissues inside your breast, in the same way that a pregnancy ultrasound scan is performed.

Examination of the armpit (or axilla) may also be undertaken to assess for any enlarged lymph glands (or nodes – a lump or swelling).

How long does a breast ultrasound take?

The examination takes between 15-30 minutes. Sometimes the sonographer will ask you to wait and have the images checked by the radiologist (specialist doctor).

What happens after the scan?

The Radiologist will review the images and provide a written report to your referring doctor. Please settle your account on the day of the examination.