Expert imaging. Personalized care. Early detection.
Mammography is a specialized X-ray method used to detect early signs of breast cancer and other breast conditions – often before symptoms appear. It plays an important role in both routine screening and diagnosing breast-related conditions.
At Cooper’s Breast Imaging Centers, we combined advanced imaging tech ology with a compassionate approach, ensuring you feel supported and well card for during your mammogram.
Understanding Mammograms
What happens during a mammogram?
During a mammogram, your breast is gently compressed between two pates to spread the tissue for a clearer view. This quick compression improves image quality and reduces the amount of radiation needed.
A radiologist will review your mammogram to look for anything unusual, such as:
- Lumps or masses
- Areas of dense of irregular tissue
- Microcalcification (tiny calcium deposits)
If anything suspicious is seen, your doctor may recommend additional views, a follow-up test such as an ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or possibly a biopsy.
What is digital mammography?
Digital mammography uses the same low-dose X-ray technology as traditional film mammography, but the images are recorded electronically. This allows for:
- Enhanced image clarity through contrast adjustment
- Easier sharing of images with other specialists
- Fewer repeat images, which can reduce overall radiation exposure
Digital mammography may be especially helpful for younger patients and those with dense breast tissue.
What is 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)?
3D mammography, or digital breast tomosynthesis, takes multiple images of the breast from different angles to create a more detailed, layered view. This technique may improve cancer detection and reduce false positives – especially in women with dense breasts.
Although it may involve slightly more radiation than standard 2D mammography, the dose is still within safe limits, and the added clarity may help reduce the need for additional testing.
Are there risks?
Like all X-ray imaging, mammography exposes you to a small amount of radiation. However, for most women over age 40, the benefits of regular mammograms for early detection outweigh the risks. In some cases, such as for younger women at a higher risk for breast cancer, your doctor may still recommend mammography as part of your care plan.
When should I get a mammogram?
The right time to begin screening will depend on your age, personal risk factors, and family history. Talk to your doctor to decide when to start and how often to get a mammogram.
Why Choose Cooper for Your Mammogram
At Cooper’s University Health care, we take breast health seriously. Here’s why so many women in South Jersey trust us with their care:
- Expertise: All of our breast imaging specialists are fellowship trained and serve as faculty at Cooper Medical School at Rowan University. They focus exclusively on breast imaging.
- Excellence: Cooper’s Breast Imaging Centers have been designated as Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology – making us the only hospital-based imaging program in South Jersey with this distinction.
- Compassionate care: Our certified mammography technologists are specially trained to provide gentle, accurate imaging to minimize discomfort and ensure a clear image from the start.
- Team-based approach: Our radiologists work closely with Cooper’s multidisciplinary breast cancer team, providing seamless follow-up and care when needed.
- Prompt results: You and your doctor will typically receive the results of your mammogram within days. If your mammogram is diagnostic, one of our breast imaging specialists will review the results with you before you leave your appointment and arrange any follow-up testing.
- Convenience: With locations in Camden, Cherry Hill, and Voorhees, and available during evenings and weekends, scheduling your mammogram is easy and flexible.
Schedule an Appointment
Call 888.499.8779 to make an appointment for your mammogram today.