While we do believe that all women should have yearly screening mammograms (preferably 3-D mammograms) beginning at age 40 based on the current recommendations of the American Cancer Society, the American College of Radiologists, and the American Society of Breast Surgeons, there are some patients who benefit from additional screening and at an earlier age.

 

This may be because of a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer or it may be because of a previous biopsy with atypical cells. Some women are high risk because they had Chest or Mantle Radiation between the ages of 10 and 30 years, and some women with very dense breast tissue fall into this category as well.

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We may recommend genetic testing in some situations, and if this is the case we can guide you through the process from collection to testing and interpretation of results. 

 

After careful consideration of all of these factors, we will come up with the best plan for you.  In some situations, this may include prophylactic mastectomy.  In other cases, it may mean that we need to watch you more closely so that we can catch any problems that may develop while they are still very treatable.

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If you are not sure if you fall into the High-Risk category, we are happy to help you with this information. 

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