Suffolk Breast Imaging
Diagnostic Mammogram
What is A Diagnostic Mammogram?
Diagnostic mammograms focus on capturing additional images of targeted areas of the breast that need further evaluation.
A diagnostic mammogram is often recommended when a radiologist needs a closer look at a specific area of the breast tissue or to follow-up on prior findings. Other reasons include:
- Clarifying a specific area of change found during a screening mammogram
- Evaluating visible abnormalities such as calcifications, cysts, fibrocystic tissue, dense tissue, or fibroadenomas
- Monitoring known benign breast changes over time
- Following up after breast surgery or treatment of breast cancer
- Monitoring breast health in women with breast implants, which can sometimes create areas where it is hard to notice changes
- Assessing new symptoms such as: A new lump, swelling, pain, nipple discharge, etc.
It is natural to feel nervous if you are recalled for a diagnostic mammogram. It’s important for patients to know that most diagnostic mammograms result in benign findings.
Schedule Your Diagnostic mammogram in suffolk county
Suffolk Breast Imaging proudly serves patients from all over Suffolk County and Long Island, including Lake Grove, Smithtown, Stony Brook, Centereach, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, and more surrounding communities.
Call (631) 588-4500 to schedule your next diagnostic mammogram today.
Preparing for Your diagnostic mammogram
A few simple steps can make your visit smooth and stress-free
Avoid lotions, perfumes, powders on the day of your exam, as these can affect the clarity of the images
Wear a two-piece outfit, since you’ll only need to remove your top
Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and prescription
Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in
If this is your first visit, please bring a copy of any previous imaging done at other facilities.
Frequently asked questions about Diagnostic mammograms
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Sometimes, our radiologists may request a breast ultrasound or diagnostic mammogram for additional views after your screening mammogram. Just like a screening mammogram, images are taken of the breast, this time focusing on specific areas for further evaluation.
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Please call our office to schedule an appointment for your additional imaging and our staff will confirm which test(s) you are recommended for.
Coverage of diagnostic mammograms is dependent on your insurance provider and plan. Please contact your insurance provider directly with questions about coverage. If you have questions about insurance verification or billing procedures, please contact our billing team at (631) 588-4500.
Don’t have insurance? Our facility offers self-pay pricing. We also participate with the NYS Cancer Services Program. Please call (631) 588-4500 for more information.
Yes, we require prescriptions for all of our services, including diagnostic imaging. The results of your imaging will be sent to your referring physician to support your ongoing care and next steps.
Please bring a prescription to your appointment or have it faxed to 631-588-4595.
Test results are typically given to patients at the time of the appointment, and results will be faxed to your referring physician.
- Most diagnostic mammograms result in benign findings. If further testing is needed, our office may recommend coming back for a breast biopsy. All biopsies are performed at our office by the same dedicated breast radiologist who interpreted your screening and diagnostic imaging.