Ultrasound Examination

Ultrasound examination of the mammary glands and axillary lymph nodes (both breasts and both axillary regions).

Breast ultrasound is used for the diagnosis of various breast conditions. The examination allows assessment of breast size, tissue structure, and the presence or absence of cysts or tumors. The examination is suitable for all individuals regardless of age or gender. A referral is not required to book the examination.
Ultrasound examination uses harmless ultrasound waves for imaging. Ultrasound waves are emitted into the patient’s body using an ultrasound probe. Ultrasound examination is very informative when visibility is good.

Breast ultrasound is recommended both for preventive screening and in case of specific symptoms:

• you have noticed a lump or thickened area in the breast;
• you experience breast pain, discomfort, or swelling;
• there are changes in the skin or nipple(s);
• you wish to clarify findings detected on a mammogram or other imaging studies;
• you have dense breast tissue, where ultrasound provides important additional information alongside mammography;
• there is a family history of breast cancer, or you wish to have a preventive health check;
• you require regular follow-up of previously identified benign changes;
• you require a preoperative assessment of the breasts.

If a finding is detected, the radiologist will explain its nature and assess whether follow-up, repeat imaging after a certain period, or additional examinations/procedures are needed (mammography, magnetic resonance imaging, or biopsy).

We ask you to arrive 10 minutes before the appointment time.  The examination usually takes 10-20 minutes.

Preparing for the examination

No special preparation is required for a breast ultrasound.

The examination

• Ultrasound examination is painless.
• The examination does not involve the use of X-rays.
• There are no contraindications for the investigation.
• Wear something light and comfortable. Clothing must be removed from the examination area (including the bra) as well as any jewellery (necklaces, piercings, etc.) should be removed from the area being examined.

During the examination, you will need to lie down or sit on the examination table and ultrasound gel will be applied to your skin to allow the ultrasound waves to penetrate the skin more effectively. The ultrasound gel does not stain clothes or skin. The examination room is dimly lit to enhance the visibility of the images displayed on the screen.

Examination results

You will receive the examination results from your treating doctor. If you have not scheduled a follow-up appointment or call-back time, please contact the referring department. The examination results are also available to the patient in the national Health Portal.