Breast ultrasound

You will be asked to undress from the waist up. You will be given a gown to wear. During the test, you will lie on your back on an examining table. Your health care provider will place a gel on the skin of your breast. A handheld device, called a transducer, is moved over the breast area. You may be asked to raise…

You may want to wear a two-piece outfit, so you do not have to completely undress. A mammogram may be needed either before or after the exam. Do not use any lotion or powder on your breasts on the day of the exam. Do not use deodorant under your arms. Remove any jewelry from your neck and chest area.

This test usually does not cause any discomfort, although the gel may feel cool.

Breast ultrasound is usually ordered when more information is needed after other tests are done or as a stand-alone test. These tests may include mammogram or breast MRI . Your provider may order this test if you have: A breast lump found during a breast exam An abnormal mammogram Clear or bloody nipple discharge A…

A normal result means the breast tissue appears normal.

Ultrasound can help show noncancerous growths such as: Cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs Fibroadenomas , which are noncancerous solid growths Lipomas, which are noncancerous fatty lumps that can occur anywhere in the body, including the breasts Breast cancers can also be seen with ultrasound. Follow-up tests to…

There are no risks associated with breast ultrasound. There is no radiation exposure.

American Cancer Society website. American Cancer Society recommendations for the early detection of breast cancer. www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/american-cancer-society-recommendations-for-the-early-detection-of-breast-cancer.html . Updated December 19, 2023. Accessed May 21,…