3D Mammography and Dense Breast Tissue Explained.

If you have been told you have dense breasts, or you are simply due for a mammogram, you may have come across the term 3D mammography. It is not a completely different test. It is a more detailed way of taking the same kind of breast X-ray images. This guide explains how it works, what breast density means and how to book in Ontario.

Quick Facts: 3D Mammography

King City Diagnostic Imaging offers 3D tomosynthesis mammography, including for women with dense breast tissue. Under the Ontario Breast Screening Program, people aged 40 to 74 can book routine screening mammograms without a referral. A mammogram to investigate a symptom needs a requisition from a doctor or nurse practitioner.

3D mammography, also called tomosynthesis, captures images of the breast from several angles and builds them into a three-dimensional view. Instead of looking at one flat image, the radiologist can scroll through the breast layer by layer. This helps separate overlapping tissue and can improve the detection of abnormalities while reducing unnecessary callback appointments.

The exam is performed by a qualified Medical Radiation and Imaging Technologist, and the images are read by a radiologist. The experience is very similar to a standard mammogram, including breast compression.

Breast density describes how much of the breast is made up of glandular and fibrous tissue compared with fat. Dense tissue appears white on a mammogram, which is also how many cancers appear, so dense tissue can make small changes harder to see on standard images.

Dense breasts are common and are not abnormal. You cannot tell whether your breasts are dense by how they look or feel, and density has nothing to do with size or firmness. It is determined by the radiologist reading your mammogram.

Because 3D mammography shows the breast in layers, normal overlapping tissue is less likely to hide a finding or to look like a problem when it is not. That is why it is especially useful for women with dense tissue. Whether any additional screening is right for you depends on your age, family history and other risk factors, so talk to your doctor if you have been told your breasts are dense.

A screening mammogram is for people without symptoms, with the goal of finding changes early. A diagnostic mammogram is done when something needs a closer look, such as a lump, breast pain, nipple discharge, skin changes or a follow-up to an abnormal screening result.

If you notice a new lump or change in your breast, see your doctor promptly. Do not wait for your next scheduled screening.

The Ontario Breast Screening Program lets eligible people between 40 and 74 book routine screening mammograms without a referral. Our guide to the Ontario Breast Screening Program explains who qualifies, and Ontario Health has more on the program.

Follow any instructions you receive at booking. Many patients find a two-piece outfit easier on exam day, and it is common to be advised to skip deodorant, powder and lotion on the day of the exam. See our mammography page for full details, or book your appointment online.

Does 3D mammography hurt? The exam involves breast compression, as a standard mammogram does, which some people find uncomfortable. It is brief, and the technologist can adjust if you are in pain.

Do I need a referral? Not for routine screening if you are between 40 and 74 and booking through the Ontario Breast Screening Program. A mammogram to look into a symptom needs a requisition.

What if I have breast implants? Tell the technologist when you book and again at your appointment so they can plan the exam.

If you already have a requisition from your doctor, our team is ready to help.