Even though breast cancer is curable when caught at an early stage, it’s still the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. The comprehensive breast imaging center at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., offers advanced screening and diagnostic mammograms that can detect breast cancer long before you have symptoms like a lump. If you notice changes in your breast or it’s time for routine breast cancer screening, call the Rochester Hills or Troy, Michigan, office or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment.

When do I need breast imaging?

Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., recommends breast imaging any time you have symptoms that suggest breast cancer and when your age or risk factors for breast cancer meet the guidelines for routine screenings.

Breast cancer symptoms

The first sign of breast cancer often appears as a lump in your breast. A lump isn’t the only symptom, however. You may also experience:

• Breast itchiness

• Redness or slight swelling

• Skin puckering or dimpling

• Nipple discharge from one breast

• Nipple changes such as a newly inverted nipple

• Changes in the size or shape of a breast

• Peeling, crusting, or flaking skin anywhere on the breast

If you notice any breast symptoms, don’t wait to schedule a thorough breast exam at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C.

Breast cancer screenings

The American Cancer Society recommends that women consider getting their first mammogram between the ages of 40 to 44. Starting at the age of 45, they suggest yearly mammograms; then, after 55, you can switch to mammograms every two years.

The most important thing to remember about breast cancer screenings is that your unique risk factors determine the best age for your first mammogram and the frequency of routine screenings.

If you have a high risk of developing breast cancer, you may need earlier and more frequent mammograms. Your provider can assess your risks and help you make the best decision.

What role do mammograms have in breast imaging?

A mammogram represents your first line of defense when it comes to detecting breast cancer. Using a low-dose X-ray, mammograms can reveal breast cancer at an early stage, even before you can feel a lump.

Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., offers two types of mammograms:

3D screening mammogram

You have a screening mammogram when you don’t have symptoms. Your provider uses advanced technology, the Genius™ 3D Mammography™, which examines your breast layer by layer to create a three-dimensional image.

With advanced 3D technology, your mammograms produce more detailed and accurate images compared to standard 2D mammograms, even for women with dense breasts.

Diagnostic mammogram

Your provider performs a 3D diagnostic mammogram after you have symptoms of breast cancer. This procedure typically includes additional images that aren’t part of a screening mammogram.

When do I get an ultrasound as part of breast imaging?

Your provider does an ultrasound after you have a mammogram. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce more detailed images of specific lumps and tissues in your breast. These images allow your provider to determine if you have a cyst or a solid mass and to verify the size and location of a mass.

Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., may do a diagnostic ultrasound that targets a precise area identified during your mammogram. Or your technician can also do an automated whole-breast ultrasound that creates an image of your entire breast.

Whether you need screening or diagnostic breast imaging, call Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., or schedule an appointment online today.