Breast ultrasound is a medical and technological device that provides detailed imaging of breast tissues and structures. This method is used when clear results cannot be obtained with mammography. It is preferred for examining the nature of masses in cases where breast tissue is dense.
Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure and is performed comfortably. A gel is applied to the area to be examined, and an ultrasound device is moved over the breast to obtain images. When used in conjunction with mammography, this method plays an important role in the evaluation and monitoring of breast health.
How is a Breast Ultrasound Performed?
A breast ultrasound is performed by a specialist radiologist or sonographer in the radiology department. This procedure involves the examination of breast tissue and the detection of possible abnormalities.
During ultrasonography, high-frequency sound waves are sent using an ultrasound device, and the returning waves are displayed on a monitor. The ultrasound image helps determine the structure and characteristics of masses.
The stages of the procedure are as follows:
The patient undresses from the waist up, exposing the area to be examined, and lies down on a stretcher.
A water-based gel is applied to the breast to ensure better contact with the ultrasound probe and clear images.
The radiologist or sonographer moves the ultrasound probe over the breast, sending sound waves. The probe detects the echoes from the tissues, and these signals are displayed on a screen.
The obtained ultrasound images are viewed on the screen and recorded. Areas deemed necessary can be examined in more detail.
The radiologist evaluates the images and determines if there are any abnormalities. These images are then documented in a report.
After the procedure is completed, the gel is cleaned from the patient’s skin, and the patient leaves the procedure room after getting dressed.
Why is a Breast Ultrasound Requested?
A breast ultrasound may be requested to evaluate in greater detail a change detected during a physical examination or a suspicious area seen on another imaging test. Findings that may require investigation include a palpable lump, persistent pain in a specific area of the breast, spontaneous nipple discharge, skin retraction, or swelling in the armpit. By providing additional information about the structure of the area concerned, ultrasound helps guide the evaluation process.
The main situations in which the examination may be requested include:
- Determining whether a palpable lesion is a fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass
- More detailed evaluation of an area identified on mammography or breast MRI
- Assessment of areas that are difficult to evaluate in patients with dense breast tissue
- Evaluation of breast symptoms occurring during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Monitoring previously identified benign lesions for changes
- Guiding a biopsy needle to the correct area when necessary
Breast ultrasound is not the primary imaging method used for routine breast cancer screening in every patient. The imaging method to be used is determined by the physician according to age, clinical findings, breast tissue characteristics, and previous test results.
Ultrasound findings are interpreted together with the physical examination and other imaging results. This makes it possible to assess whether the detected change requires follow-up or further investigation.
How Long Does a Breast Ultrasound Take?
A breast ultrasound is usually completed within 15 to 30 minutes. The examination time may vary depending on the size of the area to be assessed, whether one or both breasts are imaged, and whether a finding requires detailed evaluation.
Because the necessary images are obtained in real time during the examination, additional time may be needed to assess a particular area.
The main factors that may affect the duration of the procedure include:
| Factor Affecting Duration | Effect on the Examination |
| Scope of the Area to Be Assessed | Examining a single area and imaging both breasts in detail may not take the same amount of time. |
| Breast Tissue Characteristics | Dense or difficult-to-assess tissue may need to be examined from different angles. |
| Previous Imaging Findings | Additional images may be obtained of an area identified on mammography or breast MRI. |
| Characteristics of the Detected Lesion | An area suspected of being a cyst or a solid lesion may require detailed evaluation. |
The stated duration refers to the approximate time required to obtain the images. Registration, preparation, and report generation times may vary according to the center’s workflow. Once the examination is complete, the gel is wiped from the skin and the patient can return to daily activities. However, if an additional procedure such as an ultrasound-guided biopsy is planned, the examination may take longer than a standard breast ultrasound.
Breast Ultrasound Cost
The cost of a breast ultrasound varies according to the scope of the examination, the imaging center’s current pricing policy, and any additional assessments requested as part of the procedure. It is not possible to provide a fixed fee applicable to every patient.
Before the appointment, finding out the scope of the procedure and which services are included in the total fee can help clarify the payment plan. The main factors that may affect the cost include:
| Factor Affecting Cost | Explanation |
| Scope of the Examination | Evaluation of a specific area and a comprehensive breast assessment may be priced differently. |
| Need for Additional Imaging | A request for mammography, breast MRI, or another examination may change the total cost. |
| Interventional Procedures | Procedures such as ultrasound-guided biopsy are evaluated separately from standard imaging. |
| Reporting and Specialist Assessment | Whether reporting and physician assessment are included in the fee may vary by center. |
| Health Coverage | The scope of private health insurance and institutional agreements may affect the amount payable. |
Before scheduling a breast ultrasound appointment, information can be requested about the scope of the examination, payment terms, and services included in the fee. It should be confirmed in advance whether the consultation, imaging, reporting, and any additional procedures are charged separately. This can provide a clearer understanding of the process.
Breast Ultrasound in Ankara
Breast ultrasound in Ankara may be performed to evaluate findings such as a lump, pain, discharge, or a change in breast shape. This imaging method does not use radiation. It may be used to assess dense breast tissue and to distinguish fluid-filled cysts from solid lesions.
Whether the examination is necessary and whether it should be planned together with other imaging methods are determined by the physician based on age, medical history, physical examination findings, and previous test results.
For information about the procedure in Ankara and points to consider, visit the Breast Ultrasound in Ankara page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The two methods use different imaging techniques. For more information, see the Mammography article.
A breast ultrasound may be performed in hospital radiology departments, medical imaging centers, and healthcare facilities that provide breast imaging services.
A breast ultrasound may be performed when a lump, pain, discharge, or another change is detected in the breast. It may also be used to assess dense breast tissue and to examine an area seen on mammography in greater detail.
There is no strict age limit for breast ultrasound. The examination is planned according to clinical findings and the physician’s assessment.
Because breast ultrasound does not use radiation, it is an imaging method that may be performed during pregnancy when medically indicated.
Images are obtained during the examination; however, the time required to prepare the written report may vary according to the center’s workflow and the radiologist’s assessment.