Breast Ultrasound

What is a Breast Ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound examination is a non-invasive, radiation free breast imaging tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the breast. During your ultrasounds a hypo-allergenic, water-soluble gel will then be applied to your breast to prevent air from getting between the ultrasound source and your skin. A small probe, called a transducer, will be passed over the surface of your breast, producing a painless sensation of light pressure on your skin.

A breast ultrasound may be ordered by your physician or recommended by your radiologist to obtain more information about a possible abnormality. Breast ultrasounds are frequently done to assess the characteristics of a lump. Although mammograms remain the standard of care for breast cancer screenings, some cancers may not be visible on mammograms, often because they are hidden by areas of dense breast tissue (link to dense breast page) or breast implants.

The breast ultrasound examination is performed by a technologist who is an expert in using ultrasound. The exam typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

The examination results will be evaluated by a radiologist skilled in interpreting sonograms. The results will be sent to your referring physician within five working days.