Diagnostic and Screening Breast Ultrasound in VancouverSame-day Appointments
Breast ultrasound is used to evaluate breast lumps, pain, nipple discharge, dense breast tissue, and findings seen on mammography. We offer both diagnostic and screening breast ultrasound, including comprehensive bilateral imaging with same-day appointments available.
Why Patients Book a Breast Ultrasound
We provide both diagnostic and screening breast ultrasound, including comprehensive bilateral imaging performed by experienced breast sonographers and interpreted by board-certified Canadian radiologists.
Diagnostic Breast Ultrasound is used to evaluate a specific concern, such as:
- A breast lump or palpable area
- Localized breast pain
- Changes in breast shape, skin, or nipple
- Follow-up of findings from mammography or prior imaging
Screening Breast Ultrasound may be particularly relevant for:
- Patients with dense breast tissue
- Those seeking more complete evaluation alongside mammography
- Patients with multiple or less well-defined areas of concern
Your physician or care provider will determine whether diagnostic or screening ultrasound is appropriate based on your history and symptoms.
Who This Ultrasound Is For
Patients with a palpable lump, asymmetry, pain, or nipple discharge; also available for routine screening and for male patients to rule out gynecomastia.
What to Expect
Your scan is performed by a certified sonographer in a private, comfortable room. The examination typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. You will lie on your back while gel is applied and a probe is moved gently across the breast tissue. This is not painful, though some pressure may be applied to assess specific areas. Bring your physician's requisition form. If you have previous mammogram or ultrasound images, bring them or ask your prior clinic to forward them. Comparison imaging improves diagnostic accuracy. Results are sent digitally to you and your referring physician within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Breast Ultrasound vs. Mammogram
Breast ultrasound and mammography are complementary imaging tests, and each plays a different role in breast care.
- Mammography is the primary screening test for breast cancer and is recommended for routine screening based on age and risk factors
- Ultrasound provides detailed imaging of breast tissue and is particularly helpful in evaluating specific findings and detecting abnormalities that may be less visible on mammography, especially in patients with dense breast tissue
2. Do I still need a mammogram if I have a breast ultrasound?
Yes. Mammography remains the primary screening tool for breast cancer and is recommended based on your age and risk factors. Breast ultrasound is typically used to:
- Evaluate a specific concern (such as a lump)
- Further assess findings seen on a mammogram
- Provide additional imaging in patients with dense breast tissue
Your physician may recommend one or both tests depending on your individual situation.
3. When is breast ultrasound used instead of a mammogram?
Ultrasound may be used as the initial imaging test in:
- Younger patients with breast symptoms
- Patients where mammography is less informative
- Situations requiring targeted evaluation of a specific area