Patient preparation
Preparing for Your Breast Imaging Visit
Bring your earlier images and reports, confirm which examination is planned, and ask whether you need any specific preparation. Use this checklist alongside the instructions from your treating team.
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What to bring
Keep your referral, if available, and relevant reports together. Bring earlier mammograms, ultrasound or other breast imaging, even if they were performed elsewhere. Let the team know when and where your previous examinations were done.
- Referral or appointment instructions, if available.
- Previous reports and original imaging films or digital files when available.
- Previous biopsy or surgery reports relevant to the current visit.
- A list of medicines, allergies and questions you want to discuss.
Previous images and reports are different
Bring both the earlier images and the written reports if you can. The report describes the findings; the images allow the radiologist to compare the examinations directly.
Ask the practice which digital formats it can review. If you cannot obtain an earlier study, let the team know.
Preparation depends on the examination
Confirm the service, date, location and any specific instructions. Do not apply preparation advice for one procedure to every breast examination. There is no universal fasting instruction for all visits.
Mammography
For mammography, ask about clothing and products used on the breast or underarm. Bring earlier mammograms for comparison.
3D Mammography
Confirm whether tomosynthesis is planned and follow the mammography preparation instructions supplied by the team.
Breast Ultrasound
For ultrasound, describe the area of concern and bring related reports. Ask whether other imaging is planned during the visit.
Breast Biopsy
For core biopsy, discuss medicines, allergies, preparation and aftercare with the team before the procedure.
Breast FNAC
For FNAC, confirm the planned sampling and ask how results and any further assessment will be arranged.
Breast Wire Localisation
Wire localisation may be coordinated with another procedure. Confirm the sequence and timing with both teams.
Breast Clip and Marker Placement
Ask whether marker placement is part of another planned procedure and which instructions apply to that visit.
Information to tell the imaging team
Tell the team if you are pregnant, might be pregnant, are breastfeeding or have breast implants. Mention previous breast surgery or procedures and any new symptoms. These details help the team plan the examination; do not decide on your own that imaging cannot be performed.
Describe when a change began, which side is affected and whether it has changed. You can ask for privacy while discussing personal details.
Discuss medicines and allergies
Tell the team about prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements, particularly if a procedure is planned. Mention blood-thinning medicines, bleeding problems and allergies, including previous reactions to local anaesthetic or dressings.
Do not stop or change medication on the basis of this website. Any adjustment should be agreed with the clinician responsible for your treatment and the procedure team.
Accompaniment and aftercare
Ask whether you need someone to accompany you and whether the planned procedure affects driving, work or other activities afterwards. Requirements depend on the procedure and your circumstances.
If aftercare is needed, ask for clear written instructions, the contact route for concerns and the arrangements for results. Confirm these before travelling home.
Common questions
Should I fast before every breast imaging appointment?
No single fasting rule applies to all breast imaging visits. Confirm the instructions for your planned examination or procedure with the team.
Should I stop my medicines before a biopsy?
Do not stop medicines yourself. Tell the team what you take and ask whether any changes need to be agreed with your treating clinician.
What if my old images are unavailable?
Bring the reports you have and explain where the earlier imaging was performed. Ask the practice whether anything else should be obtained before the visit.
Patient information sources
Check the details before your visit
Confirm the examination, location, preparation instructions and records to bring. Keep a short list of questions for the imaging team.
Contact the practice