3D Mammography

Mammograms are the front-line screening tool for breast cancer and a need that no woman should overlook. That’s why the expert team offers 3D mammography at Southern OBGYN in Valdosta, Georgia, offers 3D mammography. If you’re overdue for a mammogram, reach out to the office online or by phone to book a visit today.

Why is 3D mammography so important?

A mammogram is a type of X-ray imaging of the breast. It’s a powerful tool in screening for breast cancer, and it works by giving medical professionals a visual representation of a woman’s internal breast tissue. 

While self-administered breast exams are an important part of screening for breast cancer, it isn’t easy to feel smaller lumps or those located deeper within breast tissue. Women with large or dense breasts can easily miss detecting a mass. 

Mammography provides a far better screening approach, one that can show abnormal masses no matter where they’re located within the breast. Southern OBGYN uses the Genius® 3D Mammography™ Exam, an advanced system that stacks multiple images of thin layers of breast tissue into one image, delivering a three-dimensional view of the breast. 

This technology requires less radiation than previous methods and detects 20-65% more cases of invasive breast cancer than traditional 2D X-ray methods. It’s great for women with dense breasts, and the outstanding image quality often reduces the need for additional testing.  

How should I prepare for 3D mammography?

There’s no special preparation needed in advance of your 3D mammography appointment. You can schedule your mammogram for the same day as your well-women examination to make screening more convenient. 

When you arrive for your mammogram, you remove your clothing to the waist and put on a comfortable draping garment. This allows the technician to uncover only the breast that’s being scanned and helps you remain comfortable during the visit. 3D mammography takes just moments to complete. For most women, the process of undressing and redressing takes more time than the actual scan. 

Is 3D mammography a painful experience?

Thanks to advancements in imaging technology, today’s 3D mammography is far more comfortable than the mammograms that your mother and grandmother had access to. Most women find the experience easy to navigate, and those who’ve had mammograms in recent decades are often surprised at how comfortable the Genius 3D system can be. 

Of course, every woman is unique. There’s still a degree of breast compression required to gain the best possible imaging. While many women find their mammograms to be comfortable, others still report discomfort during their visit. 

When you’re ready to book your next mammogram, call Southern OBGYN or spend a few moments on the online scheduling page.