A breast ultrasound is an ionising radiation free examination. It is a simple, safe and non-invasive method of evaluating the breast tissue.

It is often done adjunct to a mammography – particularly in women with dense breast tissue. And is also a safe means of assessing younger women who are not yet at the appropriate age for a routine mammography (below 40 years of age).

Depending on the patient’s clinical symptoms and findings on the ultrasound, further mammography imaging may be needed.

There is no specific preparation required for this examination.

No preparation is required for this examination. For the ultrasound you will be required to lie on a bed next to an ultrasound machine. The radiologist or sonographer will apply a jelly to the skin surface to improve contact between the ultrasound transducer and the skin. The ultrasound transducer will then be moved smoothly and painlessly over the skin surface. Alternatively, an ABUS (Automated Breast Ultrasound) can be performed. Depending on the clinical circumstances, an examination may last from 5 to 20 minutes.

The ultrasound gel is water-soluble and easily cleaned. Normal activities may be continued immediately after the procedure.