Breast Ultrasound

Overview | When Breast Ultrasound is Used | What to Expect | Results and Follow-Up

What Is Breast Ultrasound?

Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue. At The Women’s Imaging Center in Mount Vernon, Washington, breast ultrasound is commonly used with mammography to evaluate a specific area of concern, such as a lump, focal breast pain, nipple changes, or a finding seen on a mammogram.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of breast tissue. This helps the radiologist better understand whether an area is solid, fluid-filled, or has features that may require additional imaging or follow-up.

When Breast Ultrasound May Be Used

Breast ultrasound may be recommended for several reasons. It is often used after a screening or diagnostic mammogram when more information is needed about a specific area. In conjunction with mammography, it may also be used to evaluate a palpable lump, focal breast pain, or another breast symptom.

In some cases, ultrasound is used to help guide a breast biopsy. When an area can be seen clearly with ultrasound, the radiologist can use real-time imaging to help guide the biopsy needle to the correct location. This helps support accurate sampling of the area being evaluated.

What to Expect During a Breast Ultrasound

During a breast ultrasound, gel is applied to the skin, and a small handheld device called a transducer is moved over the area being evaluated. The transducer sends and receives sound waves, which are used to create images on a screen.

The exam is noninvasive and generally well tolerated. You may feel light pressure as the technologist moves the transducer over the breast, especially if the area being evaluated is tender. The technologist may focus on the area of concern or take additional images based on the exam order and imaging findings.

Results and Follow-Up

Breast ultrasound images are reviewed by a radiologist. Results are shared with your referring provider and may also be discussed during your visit, depending on the type of appointment and findings.

Depending on the results, the radiologist may recommend routine follow-up, additional imaging, short-term monitoring, or biopsy. Many ultrasound findings are benign, but ultrasound can provide important detail to help guide the next step in care.

To request an appointment or ask questions about breast ultrasound services, please request an appointment online or call (360) 428-7275. A member of our team will follow up to help coordinate your appointment.