Breast ultrasound screening is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed images of breast tissue. It does not use radiation and is typically used as a supplement to mammography, not a replacement. During the exam, a trained sonographer uses a handheld probe to examine the entire breast and identify any areas that may need closer evaluation.

If you have dense breast tissue, ask your doctor about  bilateral breast ultrasound for dense breasts. Ultrasounds can detect cancers that a mammogram might miss, and about 40% of women have dense breasts! Not sure if you have dense breasts? Your mammogram report should indicate it, or you can simply ask your doctor.

No, hand held ultrasound and automated breast ultrasound screening is meant to be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, mammography. While ultrasound is effective at detecting cancers that might not appear on a mammogram, mammograms are still essential for detecting other types of breast abnormalities, including calcifications.

Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to take pictures of your breast tissue. They’re great for spotting most breast cancers, especially in women with less dense breast tissue. However, in women with dense breasts, mammograms might miss some cancers since both dense tissue and tumors show up white on the images.

Ultrasound uses sound waves (no radiation!) to create detailed images of your breast tissue. It’s especially helpful for detecting tumors in dense breasts and provides a 3D image, giving a clearer view of the breast.

Exam Prep – Make sure to bring your doctors referral AND your BC Services Card with you.  We will require 2 pieces of ID, one of which mus t be your Care Card. 

Please do not apply deodorant, body powder or other material on your underarms or around the breasts. Wear clothing that can be easily removed from the waist up. You will be given a gown to wear during the examination.

Warm Welcome – Our friendly team will greet you and ensure you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. We want you to feel completely at ease throughout your visit.

The Imaging Experience – You’ll relax on a comfortable exam bed while a small amount of gel is applied to your skin.
Depending on your exam, imaging will be performed using either a hand-held ultrasound (where the sonographer gently moves a small probe over your breast) or an automated breast ultrasound system (where a scanning device moves smoothly over the breast on its own).

Both methods are gentle and non-invasive. There’s no squeezing or compression — just a smooth, painless scan.
Your appointment typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on whether your exam is hand-held or automated.

After Your Scan – Once your images are complete, a radiologist will carefully review them, and the results will be sent directly to your doctor. You can continue your day as usual—there’s no downtime or special aftercare needed.

We understand that imaging can sometimes feel a bit nerve-wracking, but we’re here to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. Have questions? Please don’t hesitate to ask—our team is always happy to help.