Dense Breast Mammograms: What to Expect

If you’ve recently learned that you have dense breast tissue, you’re not alone. Nearly half of women over 40 have dense breasts. But what does that mean when it comes to your mammogram? And how is your care different moving forward?

At Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc., in Salem, Oregon, Elizebeth Rose Harmon, MD, FACOG, and the team help you understand the process.

Let’s walk through what to expect during a mammogram if you have dense breasts, and how you can stay proactive about your breast health.

Understanding dense breast tissue

Breasts contain a mix of fatty and fibrous glandular (fibroglandular) tissue. When you have more glandular tissue than fat, your breasts are considered dense. It isn’t a health issue by itself, but it can make breast cancer a little harder to detect through standard mammograms.

Dense tissue and tumors both appear white on a mammogram, making it challenging to spot abnormalities. That’s why Dr. Harmon sometimes recommends additional imaging to get a clearer view.

How mammograms work with dense tissue

A standard mammogram takes X-ray images of your breasts from different angles. During the scan, your breast is briefly compressed to capture clear images. The process takes only a few seconds per image, and the appointment usually lasts about 20 minutes.

If your breasts are dense, a traditional 2D mammogram may not give the whole picture. In these cases, Dr. Harmon may recommend a 3D mammogram. 

The type of imaging captures multiple views of the breast to create a clearer, more detailed image. It helps Dr. Harmon see through layers of dense tissue to spot anything unusual.

Additional imaging options

Dr. Harmon may suggest follow-up imaging after reviewing a mammogram; it doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. She may schedule a breast ultrasound or an MRI.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to examine the tissue, while MRI relies on magnetic fields and is often used for women with a higher risk of breast cancer. 

Dr. Harmon explains why she recommends a specific test and what you can expect.

What to expect during the appointment

When you come in for your mammogram, wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to remove your top. Try to avoid using deodorant, lotion, or powder on your chest or under your arms, as these products can interfere with the imaging.

Our team guides you through each step. We help you position your body, then take the images quickly and accurately. The pressure from the machine might feel uncomfortable, but it lasts just a few seconds.

If additional imaging is needed, your appointment may take a bit longer; the care team lets you know what to expect.

When to expect results

Most people receive their mammogram results within a few days. If the images show anything unclear or suspicious, Dr. Harmon follows up with next steps. 

Getting called back for more imaging can be stressful, but it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem. It simply means Dr. Harmon wants to be thorough and get the best possible look at your breast tissue.

Take charge of your breast health

Dense breast tissue is common and nothing to worry about on its own. However, your screenings may need extra attention. The good news: Today’s advanced imaging technology makes it easier for Dr. Harmon to see what she needs to see, even when there’s dense tissue.

If you know you have dense breasts, be proactive. Call Salem Women’s Clinic or book your appointment online today.