Advantages of 3D Mammography in Long Island (Breast Imaging)

patient receiving mammogram with doctor beside her smiling

What is 3D mammography?

3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis or 3D breast imaging, is an advanced technology in the fight against breast cancer that allows doctors to examine your breast tissue one layer at a time. The 3D breast imaging system uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or “slices” for your radiologist to review.

A good analogy for a 3D mammogram is thinking of pages in a book. If you look down at the cover, you cannot see all of the pages – but when you open it up, you can go through the entire book page-by-page to see everything between the covers. 3D mammograms were designed with the same concept in mind.

At PURE Mammography in Lake Grove, Long Island, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced and accurate screening technology possible. For this reason, our facility offers state-of-the-art 3D mammograms at the same price as a traditional 2D mammogram. Our 3D mammograms are covered by all insurances.

VisitPURE Mammography at the Smith Haven Mall for an accurate 3D mammogram today, no appointment necessary. You can also call631-652-3424or fill out the form on this page to pre-schedule an appointment.

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What are the benefits of 3D mammography breast exams?

According to MD Anderson Cancer Center, a leading treatment center located at the University of Texas, 3D mammography offers significant benefits to any woman needing a mammogram. This screening can be especially beneficial for women with dense breast tissue due to the visual clarity that can be achieved. 3D mammography also reduces the likelihood of a false-positive result and can identify the size of a potential tumor and growth more easily than is possible with traditional mammography. The clarity of 3D mammograms makes it easier to detect smaller growths and thereby detect breast cancer in its earlier stages.

At PURE Mammography, we discuss the capabilities of 3D mammography and how it can benefit each patient.

Who is a candidate for a 3D mammography?

3D mammograms are said to be especially beneficial for people with dense breasts or a family history of breast cancer. However, any person who needs a mammogram can be a good candidate for 3D technology. Clinical studies have proven that the increased clarity of 3D mammography is more accurate than conventional mammogram technology. Because mammograms are the best defense we have against breast cancer, many patients are choosing this option. 3D mammograms are even suitable for women with breast implants.

What can I expect during my 3D mammogram?

From a patient experience point of view, the 3D mammogram procedure will seem exactly the same as a traditional mammogram. Just as with a digital mammogram, the technologist will position you, compress your breast under a paddle, and take images from different angles.

During the 3D mammogram, the x-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple breast images in seconds. Your doctor is then able to view your breast tissue in one-millimeter layers. There is no additional compression required with 3D breast imaging, and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view. The technologist will view the images at a computer workstation to ensure adequate images have been captured for review by a radiologist, who then studies them and reports results to your physician and you.

At PURE Mammography, we are dedicated to making your mammogram as painless and comfortable as possible. A 3D mammogram experience at PURE includes warm robes, soothing music, relaxing videos, and complimentary beverages. Many of our patients have said that their 3D mammogram experience was like a day at the spa.

3D Mammography vs Standard Mammography

diagram displaying how 3D mammograms are superior to 2D mammograms

A malignancy easily missed with conventional 2D mammography was clearly seen with 3D mammography.

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What makes a 3D mammogram different?

While digital mammography is still one of the most advanced technologies available today, it is only a 2-dimensional picture of the breast. Conventional 2D mammograms can be limiting due to overlapping layers of tissue, which can sometimes produce unclear results, false alarms, or worse – cancer being missed.

A 3D mammogram is more likely to get it right the first time. Over 100 clinical studies have shown that by using this technology, doctors are able to screen for breast cancer with much greater accuracy. 3D breast imaging detects more invasive breast cancers earlier and reduces false positives by up to 40% compared to a conventional mammogram. It is the biggest breakthrough in breast cancer detection in 30 years.

Is the radiation dose higher with a 3D mammography?

No. The amount of radiation exposure that occurs during a 3D mammogram is comparable to what would occur during a traditional mammogram.

Do all mammography centers offer 3D mammography?

Some mammography centers may not offer 3D mammography or may offer it as an upgrade to the traditional 2D exam. This upgrade usually costs more, but at PURE Mammography, we offer 3D breast imaging at no extra cost. 3D mammograms are covered by all insurances with no co-pay for women age 40 or older.

Are 3D mammography screenings painful?

3D mammogram screenings are performed much the same as conventional 2D mammograms. During the screening, the patient stands in front of the machine. One breast is placed on a platform that is adjusted to the right height for the patient. Mammograms have a reputation for being uncomfortable because a plastic plate is lowered over the top of the breast, pressing it somewhat flat against the panel. This is necessary to obtain the clearest possible image. The pressure does not harm the breast and should not be intolerably painful. If you sense too much pressure during your screening, tell your technician. The screening is usually over in just a few minutes.

Will my insurance cover my 3D mammography?

3D mammograms qualify for insurance coverage under many commercial insurance plans, including Medicare. Patients should always check with their provider for current coverage amounts.

Patient Testimonial

What People Say About Us!

“Best price around for a 3D mammogram and bone density test! Denise, who did both of my tests, was super nice. The receptionists were great. Free coffee and a calm atmosphere.”

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3D mammograms are the single best tool to find breast cancer at its earliest stages — long before you or your doctor can feel a lump. Having regular 3D mammograms performed by an experienced board-certified breast imaging specialist is the best way to detect abnormalities early. Visit PURE Mammography in Lake Grove, NY today, no appointment necessary. You can also call 631-652-3424 or fill out the form on this page to learn more about PURE or to pre-schedule a 3D breast imaging appointment.

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