For many women who are 40 and older, getting a screening mammogram can be a nerve-wracking process that evokes fear and discomfort. At Knoxville Comprehensive Breast Center (KCBC), our spa-like atmosphere provides a peaceful, calming environment for women to feel as comfortable as possible while undergoing breast care.
Contact us today at our Knoxville, Tennessee office if you do not have a current breast problem and would like to schedule your annual screening mammogram. A referral from a physician is not required.
What Can I Expect from a Screening Mammogram?
A screening mammogram uses special x-ray technology specially designed for breasts to detect abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue. It is currently the best defense against breast cancer, as the x-rays can detect tumors and growths in earlier stages than a breast exam alone can.
Our clinical breast radiologists at KCBC will compress your breasts onto the x-ray machine in order to get a set of pictures from different angles. This is sometimes met with mild discomfort, but the process is typically very tolerable overall. The breast tissue will appear white in the x-ray, whereas fatty areas will be darker.
Even if you are currently experiencing no symptoms that suggest something might be wrong with your breasts, it is still a good idea to have a screening mammogram on an annual basis in order to provide your primary physician with a point of reference, should your breasts experience any changes.
How Do I Prepare for a Mammogram?
Although a screening mammogram requires no heavy preparation, there are still a few things to bear in mind:
- No body powders, creams, lotions or deodorants should be worn on the day of your screening mammogram, as these could potentially interfere with the x-ray process.
- All jewelry will have to be removed
- No dietary or medicinal changes will be necessary unless otherwise noted by your physician
- The KCBC medical staff should be notified if you are or think you may be pregnant
- You should expect your appointment to last from 30-45 minutes
Why Should I Choose KCBC for my Screening Mammograms?
At KCBC, we understand that when having a screening mammogram, you want compassion and efficient results. As breast health is our specialized focus, our clinical breast radiologists and skilled medical staff are sensitive to picking up subtleties in breast tissue that may be overlooked elsewhere.
All mammogram reports will be sent to both you and your physician within 3 business days; however, if we detect an abnormality or suspicious finding in your screening mammogram, you will receive a phone call from us within 24 hours.
For compassionate care with streamlined results, contact KCBC today to schedule your annual screening mammogram. We have been certified by the FDA and the American College of Radiology.