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Description of Mammogram

A mammogram is one of the most effective screening and diagnostic tools for detecting breast cancer at an early stage. It uses low‑dose X‑rays to examine breast tissue for lumps, structural changes, calcifications, or abnormalities.

At Advicon Imaging, we use advanced **3D tomosynthesis (3D mammography)** technology. This technique captures multiple images from different angles and reconstructs them into thin, 1‑millimetre slices, allowing the radiologist to examine each layer of breast tissue with superior clarity. This reduces the impact of overlapping tissue and increases cancer detection rates, especially in women with dense breasts.

3D mammography benefits include:

  • 27% increase in detecting breast cancers
  • 40% increase in detecting invasive cancers
  • 17% reduction in false positives
  • Better accuracy for dense breast tissue

Mammography services include:

  • Screening mammograms
  • Diagnostic mammograms
  • 3D tomosynthesis
  • Assessment of breast lumps, pain, or discharge
  • Follow‑up after abnormal findings
  • Imaging for patients with implants

If additional evaluation is needed, the radiologist may recommend breast ultrasound or, in some cases, biopsy or FNA.

Frequently asked questions about mammograms

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a specialised low‑dose X‑ray of the breasts used to detect early abnormalities, including breast cancer.

What is 3D mammography (tomosynthesis)?

It is an advanced technique that creates thin layered images of breast tissue to improve clarity and detection of small cancers.

Does a mammogram hurt?

You may experience pressure when the breast is compressed, but discomfort is brief and varies between patients.

Do I need preparation?

Yes:

  • Avoid deodorant, talcum powder, lotion, or perfume on the day of your scan
  • Wear a two‑piece outfit
  • Bring previous mammograms or breast ultrasounds
  • If you have implants, inform staff at the time of booking
  • If your breasts are tender before your period, schedule the scan one week after menstruation (if possible)
What happens during the mammogram?

• Your breast is placed on a flat plate and gently compressed

• The X‑ray tube moves in an arc for 3D tomosynthesis images

• Several images may be taken from different angles

• The radiographer will reposition you as needed

Are mammograms safe?

Yes. Mammography uses very low radiation doses and is considered safe for routine breast screening.

When will my doctor get results?

Reports are usually sent to your doctor within 24–48 hours.

How often should I have a mammogram?

General recommendations:

  • Women over 40: every 1–2 years
  • Women with high risk: consult your doctor for personalised screening frequency
Is it bulk‑billed?

Yes. All Medicare‑eligible mammograms are fully bulk‑billed at Advicon Imaging.

Additional Information: Breast Density

Breast density can make mammograms harder to interpret and may increase cancer risk. 3D mammography improves detection in dense breasts. Your radiologist may recommend breast ultrasound if needed for clearer assessment.

After Your Mammogram

You may have temporary tenderness after compression. The radiologist will review your images and decide if further tests—such as additional views or ultrasound—are required.

Advicon Imaging – Modern 3D mammography, experienced radiographers, and fully bulk‑billed Medicare‑eligible breast imaging.

Feedback from our patients

Advicon Imaging Reviews

Clinic

Amazing front desk staff, polite and friendly. Staff doing the procedures were amazing and professional. Clean and good location plus they accept Medicare bulk billing. Overall the place offers good service.

Gela

Advicon Imaging Hornsby Clinic

Advicon Imaging provides excellent service. The staff are professional and friendly, the facility is clean and well-maintained, and waiting times are minimal.

Liezel

Hornsby Clinic

Really impressed with the service here. The staff were friendly, professional, and welcoming, and I was in and out very quickly. Made the whole process easy and comfortable. Highly recommend

Alyson

Advicon Imaging Gladesville Clinic

I highly recommend Advicon Imaging West Ryde. They gave me the first available appt which was the day after I got the referral. No wait time. And X-Rays and ultrasound all bulk billed. Amazing! The ultrasound technician was lovely. The X-Ray results were texted immediately. The ultrasound and report are available in 2 days.

Lisa

Advicon Imaging West Ryde Clinic

What an amazingly great service—and especially wonderful people—work here! From the very first step, the receptionist, Mirella, was so lovely and did everything she could to help us organize an ultrasound for my daughter (even though we didn’t have an appointment). The technicians were very friendly and professional. They kindly squeezed us into the queue so we could get the service done. Truly impressed by both the service and the quality!

Irina

Advicon Imaging Hornsby Clinic

I had such a positive experience today. The customer service was genuinely caring, and the doctor made me feel completely at ease with their friendly and gentle approach. The entire staff was incredibly helpful and kind. Definitely a five-star experience!

Ehsan

Advicon Imaging Hornsby Clinic

I recently had a CT scan at this imaging centre, and I was very impressed with their service. The billing process was straightforward with bulk billing, and the centre offers easy access. The staff were friendly, professional, and made the experience stress-free. I’ve visited both of their locations, and they are conveniently situated near Hornsby Westfield, which makes them very accessible. Highly recommend for anyone needing imaging.

Jo

Advicon Imaging Hornsby Clinic

Lovley and friendly receptionist. Felt at ease while waiting. The actual process was quick and painless. If I ever need a cat scan, I would not hesitate to come back. Though perhaps the cat may feel differently.

Dave

Hornsby Clinic

The receptionist Mirella was very helpful and quick to arrange my Mum’s ultrasound. She had a wonderful attitude. The technician Lily was very thorough and patient while completing the ultra sound. They provided excellent care and service for my mum.

Michelle

Hornsby Clinic

Advicon imaging is a great friendly place and most things are bulked billed. They are easy to book. If you have any issues they will sort it out. The girls at reception are really nice and accommodating. The staff who do X-Ray, CT scan, ultrasound are great to deal with.

Aaron

Hornsby Clinic

Great communication from booking process through to examination. Wait times were minimal and the whole process was great (well as great as a medical ultrasound for a torn muscle). My clinician Perry was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. As were the administration/reception staff.

Ros-Alan

Advicon Imaging Gladesville Clinic

Highly recommend! We had a baby ultrasound here and they kindly accommodated us at the last minute. No waiting time and great service — will definitely come back next time!

Jaz

Advicon Imaging Gladesville Clinic

Advicon Imaging was extremely professional, from the referral stage right through to the medical scan. Appointment options were flexible based on my availability and the appointment time was adhered to. All staff were professional yet friendly.

Sharna

Advicon Imaging Gladesville Clinic

We had such a positive experience here. The staff were warm and patient with my young child, and took the time to explain every step in simple language so that they could understand. The whole visit was quick, organised, and the facilities were clean and comfortable. We were in and out within 10min. I wouldn’t hesitate to come back here again and highly recommend them to anyone who feels nervous about scans.

Jenny

Advicon Imaging West Ryde Clinic

I just visited the new imaging center in West Ryde, and I’m truly impressed! All the staff were so kind and welcoming, which made me feel comfortable right away. Everything — from check-in to the actual scan — was handled quickly and efficiently, with almost no waiting time.

Amy

Advicon Imaging West Ryde Clinic

I had an ultra sound with Robin who thoroughly explained everything to me as he conducted the scan, unlike most radiologists! Today I had to have a CT scan with Jason who was just as kind and professional. I thoroughly recommend this place. The whole team from receptionists to radiologists are running a fantastic service.

Nalan

Advicon Imaging West Ryde Clinic

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Should you have any questions or require any assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is committed to supporting you and your patients every step of the way.