Breast screening (mammography)
Breast screening saves lives by detecting changes in the breast tissue at an early stage when there is a good chance that treatment would be successful.
Holly House is one of the only local healthcare providers to provide MicroDose digital mammography. This state-of-the-art mammography can pick up the minutest of changes earlier than ever before, particularly in younger women whose breast tissue is denser, and combined with a lower dose of radiation this means that it is both beneficial and safe to screen annually. The innovative technology also offers a unique solution for combining breast screening and osteoporosis screening in a single examination.
What happens at a breast screen?
A breast screen consists of a mammogram (breast x-ray) to help detect small changes in breast tissue which are too small to be felt either yourself or by a doctor. You will be seen by a radiographer who will explain the process and ask you a few questions. You will then be asked to undress to the waist in a private changing room. The radiographer will ask you to sit or stand, before positioning each breast in turn on the x-ray machine and gently but firmly compressing with a clear x-ray plate.
Remember to wear a skirt or trousers rather than a dress so that you can easily undress to the waist. Do not use talcum powder or spray deodorant because these make x-rays less clear. You may use roll-on deodorant.
Can I have a breast screen?
At Holly House, we can now offer annual screening for women over 40 years due to the advanced MicroDose mammography we use. We encourage patients to have their NHS screen (if entitled) but to supplement these by having an annual breast screen at Holly House in between times. You may self-refer for a breast screen or ask your GP for a referral.
Breast screens can be booked individually as a stand alone health check or as part of a general health screen. Breast screens can also be combined with an osteoporosis screen. Osteoporosis-related fractures remain one of the major health threats for women but our innvovative MicroDose Mammography system enables a single radiology image of the hand to be taken at the same time as the mammography examination and using the same equipment to calculate your Bone Mineral Density and identify any significant loss in bone density.
How long will it take?
The whole visit takes about 30 minutes. Two Consultant Radiologists, with a special interest in breast disease, will report on your mammogram. We will contact you within 7-10 days with the result.
What should I do if I notice a change in my breasts between screens?
You should contact your GP if you notice a change in your breasts. Breast screening is intended to detect changes in the breast tissue at an early stage but nobody is as aware of your body as you are, so check yourself regularly and report any concerns to your GP. An information sheet on breast self-examination is available please ask us if you would like a copy.
Appointments and enquiries
For further information or to book an appointment, please call 020 8936 1202.
