Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia: What the Diagnosis Means and What Comes Next

A diagnosis of “atypical ductal hyperplasia” often leaves patients with unanswered questions. It is not cancer, but it is not negligible either.

Bedford Breast Center, in Beverly Hills, CA, evaluates and manages ADH diagnoses for patients across Los Angeles and nationwide.

What is Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia?

The breast ducts are lined with cells that, under normal conditions, grow in a predictable, organized pattern. Ductal hyperplasia means those cells have multiplied more than expected. ‘Atypical’ refers to the cells having an irregular shape or arrangement that is not typical of normal cells.

ADH is a benign proliferative lesion, abnormal in number and shape, but not cancerous. This distinction shapes all subsequent decisions.

ADH is usually found incidentally, and patients rarely have symptoms. It often appears in pathology after biopsy for a mammographic abnormality, such as a cluster of calcifications.

How ADH Differs from Other Diagnoses

This area of pathology is often confusing. Knowing where ADH fits among related diagnoses helps clarify its significance:

• Usual ductal hyperplasia (UDH): This is when more cells than usual line the breast duct, but these cells look normal under a microscope. There is minimal change in long-term risk.
• Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH): More cells than usual line the breast ducts, and these cells appear abnormal under the microscope. This condition raises the risk of breast cancer.
• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): atypical cells, which are abnormal cells, fill the duct (a small tube in the breast) but have not invaded surrounding tissue. This is stage 0 breast cancer, meaning it is noninvasive and confined to its original location.
• Invasive ductal carcinoma: cancer cells have gone through the wall of a milk duct and entered nearby breast tissue.

ADH differs from both usual ductal hyperplasia (UDH) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The distinction between ADH and low-grade DCIS can be subtle, which is one reason surgical excision is often recommended after a core needle biopsy finds ADH.

The Risk Elevation ADH Represents

ADH independently raises breast cancer risk, as shown by multiple long-term studies.

Women with ADH have approximately four to five times the breast cancer risk of women without proliferative changes. This risk applies to both breasts and is higher with a family history of breast cancer.

Over 25 years, the cumulative risk of breast cancer after ADH is around 30 percent. Even though significant, most women with ADH will not develop cancer. Surveillance and risk-reduction strategies help manage this risk.

Why Family History Changes the Equation

Having both ADH and a first-degree family history of breast cancer approximately doubles the risk compared to having ADH alone. If both are present, the medical team will usually recommend more detailed risk-reduction discussions, including chemoprevention and other preventive options tailored to the individual’s risk level.

What Happens After a Core Needle Biopsy Returns ADH

A core needle biopsy removes a small tissue sample with a hollow needle. With ADH findings, the key concern is whether the biopsy captures the full extent of the abnormality.

Research shows that a meaningful percentage of core needle biopsies returning ADH are upgraded to DCIS or invasive cancer when the area is surgically excised, and the tissue is examined in full. Upgrade rates in the published literature vary, but estimates consistently fall in the range of 15 to 30 percent, with some series reporting higher rates, depending on biopsy technique, lesion size, and imaging characteristics.

This upgrade rate is the main reason surgical excision is often recommended after a core needle biopsy reveals ADH. The excision ensures no higher-grade abnormality is present in tissue not sampled by the biopsy.

When Surgical Excision Is Recommended

Surgical excision is not automatic. The clinical team bases the decision on several related factors:

• The size and extent of the ADH on biopsy
• Whether the ADH was completely sampled or appeared to extend to the biopsy margin
• Imaging characteristics of the original lesion, including the size of the calcification cluster
• Biopsy technique matters. Vacuum-assisted biopsies sample more tissue than standard core biopsies by using suction to collect additional tissue.
• Patient risk factors, including family history and personal history

If excision is needed, Bedford Breast Center offers minimally invasive lump removal (MILR) when appropriate. MILR uses a small incision to remove the target area, preserving as much breast tissue as possible and allowing full tissue examination.

Ongoing Surveillance After ADH

Regardless of excision, ADH alters ongoing breast care. Annual mammography alone is insufficient for most.

Evidence supports more active surveillance, often including:

• Annual mammography with 3D tomosynthesis
• Annual breast MRI for patients with elevated lifetime risk
• Clinical breast exam every six to twelve months
• Risk assessment and ongoing reassessment as new information becomes available

Protocols are individualized. At Bedford Breast Center, ADH patients receive a care plan based on imaging, family history, genetic testing (if applicable), and personal risk preferences.

Risk Reduction: Understanding Your Options

For higher-risk patients, evidence-based options are available.

Chemoprevention

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, and aromatase inhibitors, such as exemestane and anastrozole, have been studied as risk-reduction agents in high-risk women. SERMs are medications that block estrogen in breast tissue. Aromatase inhibitors are drugs that lower estrogen levels in the body. Clinical trials have demonstrated meaningful reductions in breast cancer incidence in women with atypical lesions who take these medications.

Chemoprevention does not suit everyone; its benefits must be weighed against side effects and health history. Bedford Breast Center’s team assesses each patient before recommending treatment.

Lifestyle and Modifiable Risk Factors

While ADH itself cannot be reversed, evidence supports the role of modifiable factors in overall breast cancer risk. Routine physical activity, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding hormone replacement therapy unless clearly indicated are all associated with risk reduction. These recommendations are not a substitute for clinical monitoring but are a reasonable complement to it.

Genetic Testing and ADH

ADH is not caused by BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, and most women with ADH do not carry hereditary breast cancer genes. Still, ADH plus a significant family history justifies genetic counseling and testing.

Knowing if hereditary risk is present alters risk calculation and may affect family screening recommendations.

Bedford Breast Center offers genetic testing and risk evaluation as part of a coordinated care approach. Patients do not need to manage this separately.

ADH Evaluation and Management at Bedford Breast Center

Bedford Breast Center is a dedicated breast center in Beverly Hills, serving patients throughout Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and Orange County, as well as nationally for those who travel for specialized breast care.

After an ADH diagnosis, the next step is consultation with a breast specialist to review pathology, imaging, and clinical details. At Bedford Breast Center, evaluations are coordinated and thorough, providing patients with clear guidance for next steps.

Bedford Breast Center is located at 436 N. Bedford Drive, Suite 103, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (310) 278-8590 or through the website at bedfordbreastcenter.com.

Frequently Asked Questions About Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia

Is atypical ductal hyperplasia cancer?

No. ADH is a benign finding. However, it does represent an elevated risk for developing breast cancer in the future, which is why clinical monitoring, and in some cases, further evaluation are recommended.

Will I need surgery after an ADH diagnosis?

Not always, but surgical excision is frequently recommended after a core needle biopsy returns ADH. The reason is a documented rate of upgrade to DCIS or invasive cancer when the full area is surgically removed and examined. The decision is made based on the specifics of each case.

How often should I be screened after an ADH diagnosis?

Most patients with ADH require more frequent and advanced screening than standard annual mammography. Annual MRI combined with annual mammography is common for patients with an elevated lifetime risk. Your clinical team will outline the appropriate protocol for your specific situation.

Does ADH run in families?

ADH itself is not hereditary, but breast cancer risk is. If you have ADH and a family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling may be appropriate to assess whether a genetic factor is influencing your overall risk.

What is the difference between ADH and DCIS?

ADH involves atypical cells that partially fill the breast ducts. DCIS involves atypical cells that completely fill the ducts but have not invaded surrounding tissue. DCIS is considered stage 0 breast cancer. The distinction between the two can call for careful pathologic review, and a core biopsy returning ADH can occasionally be upgraded to DCIS when the full area is surgically examined.

The post Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia: What the Diagnosis Means and What Comes Next first appeared on Bedford Breast Center.

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/atypical-ductal-hyperplasia-what-the-diagnosis-means-and-what-comes-next/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=atypical-ductal-hyperplasia-what-the-diagnosis-means-and-what-comes-next

5 Lifestyle Choices That Help Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

Whether you have a family history of breast cancer, a known genetic mutation, or you simply want to take a proactive role in your health, there is real power in the everyday choices you make. While no lifestyle change can guarantee complete protection, research consistently shows that certain habits can meaningfully contribute to breast cancer risk reduction. At Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills, CA, our board-certified specialists, led by Dr. Heather Richardson, MD, FACS, believe that empowering patients with knowledge is one of the most important things we can do. Here are five lifestyle choices that may help lower your risk.

1. Nourish Your Body With an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

What you eat plays a meaningful role in how your body functions at a cellular level. A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods can help create an internal environment that is less hospitable to cancer development. Research suggests that diets high in processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats may contribute to inflammation, which is linked to a higher breast cancer risk.

Focusing on the following foods can support breast cancer prevention:

• Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and arugula, which are rich in folate and antioxidants
• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, which contain compounds thought to support healthy cell function
• Berries, which are packed with polyphenols and vitamin C
• Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, which provide omega-3 fatty acids that may help reduce inflammation
• Legumes, whole grains, and olive oil are staples of a Mediterranean-style eating pattern

Some women also discuss supplements such as vitamin D and omega-3s with their doctors, as low levels of vitamin D have been associated with higher breast cancer risk in some studies. Always speak with your care team before starting any supplement regimen.

2. Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity is one of the most well-supported lifestyle factors in breast cancer prevention. Exercise helps regulate hormones like estrogen and insulin, both of which can influence breast cancer development. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Strength training two to three times per week can also be beneficial, as building muscle mass supports metabolic health and helps maintain a healthy weight. You do not need to run marathons or spend hours in a gym. Consistency matters far more than intensity, and even a 30-minute daily walk can make a real difference over time.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight, Especially After Menopause

Body weight, particularly excess fat tissue around the abdomen and chest, can influence hormone levels. After menopause, fat tissue becomes one of the primary sources of estrogen production. Higher estrogen levels have been associated with an increased risk of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight can help keep hormone levels within a healthy range.

This is not about achieving a specific number on a scale. It is about supporting your overall metabolic health through balanced nutrition and regular movement. If you are unsure what a healthy weight looks like for your body type and health history, our expert care team can help guide you as part of a comprehensive prevention consultation.

4. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking

Even moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to increase breast cancer risk. Alcohol can raise estrogen and other hormone levels in the blood, which may encourage the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancer cells. Women who drink one alcoholic beverage per day have a slightly higher risk than non-drinkers, and the risk increases with each additional drink.

Tobacco use, particularly smoking, has also been associated with a higher risk of several cancers, including breast cancer. If you currently smoke, quitting is one of the single most impactful steps you can take for your long-term health. Reducing or eliminating alcohol is another meaningful and actionable change you can make today.

5. Prioritize Stress Management and Quality Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep are often overlooked contributors to overall health, but emerging research suggests they may play a role in breast cancer risk as well. Prolonged stress can elevate cortisol levels and disrupt hormonal balance, while insufficient sleep has been linked to increased inflammation and impaired immune function.

Building a regular sleep routine, aiming for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night, and finding consistent stress-relief practices can make a meaningful difference. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, deep breathing, spending time in nature, and connecting with loved ones are all evidence-supported ways to support your body’s resilience.

Why Making These Changes Matters, Regardless of Your Risk Level

You do not need a family history or a positive BRCA genetic test to benefit from these lifestyle choices. While women with elevated risk factors have even more reason to adopt these habits, healthy lifestyle changes benefit everyone. They support heart health, mental clarity, energy levels, and overall well-being, and may help reduce breast cancer risk. Think of these changes not as restrictions, but as investments in a longer, more vibrant life.

Comprehensive Care at Bedford Breast Center

At Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills, CA, we provide personalized care at every stage of your breast health journey. Our screening and diagnosis services include advanced imaging, clinical breast exams, and genetic counseling. If a diagnosis is made, our team guides you through every step, from surgery to post-surgical care and recovery.

Our entire team of providers is committed to offering compassionate, individualized care that meets you where you are, whether you are here for a routine screening or navigating a new diagnosis.

We also understand that cost can be a concern, which is why we work with patients on payment options and financial resources to help make high-quality breast care accessible.

Take the Next Step Toward Breast Cancer Prevention

You have more influence over your breast health than you may realize. Whether you are ready to discuss lifestyle changes, schedule a screening, or explore your risk factors with a specialist, our team is here to help.

We invite you to reach out through our online contact form to schedule a consultation with our expert care team. Taking that first step is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for the people who love you.

The post 5 Lifestyle Choices That Help Reduce Breast Cancer Risk first appeared on Bedford Breast Center.

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/5-lifestyle-choices-that-help-reduce-breast-cancer-risk/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-lifestyle-choices-that-help-reduce-breast-cancer-risk

Our 3 Favorite Post-Operative Recovery Treatments

Recovery after breast cancer surgery is about far more than the physical healing. It’s about finding your way back to feeling like yourself again, physically and emotionally. At Bedford Breast Center, our team partners with The Practice Healthcare to offer the most advanced post-operative treatments in Beverly Hills that support your body as it heals and help you move through breast cancer recovery with greater comfort and confidence.​

With our highly trained team sourced from top professionals across disciplines, we provide comprehensive care from diagnosis to surgery to post-operative support for women from Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Glendale, and Malibu.

Why Post-Operative Recovery Treatments Matter

After breast cancer surgery recovery, your body is working hard to repair tissue, reduce swelling, and protect you from infection. Thoughtful post-operative treatments can support these natural processes, which may make your recovery feel smoother and more manageable.

When your treatment plan includes dedicated breast cancer post op treatments in Beverly Hills, you may notice benefits such as less discomfort better range of motion, and a greater sense of control over your healing journey. While individual results always vary, these therapies are designed to complement your surgery and follow-up care rather than replace them.

1. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Deeper Cellular Repair

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, often called HBOT, is a treatment provided at The Practice Healthcare that delivers 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This allows far more oxygen than usual to reach tissues affected by surgery, supporting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and helping the body recover more efficiently after breast surgery and reconstruction.​

Inside the chamber, oxygen-rich plasma can reach swollen or disrupted tissues that might normally have limited blood flow. This enhanced oxygenation has been shown to stimulate collagen production, encourage the formation of new blood vessels, and support cellular regeneration, all of which are important for breast cancer recovery.​

Many patients use HBOT in the days and weeks after surgery. Typical sessions last about sixty to ninety minutes, and most people relax, listen to music, or even nap during treatment. There is no recovery time needed after a session, although a series of treatments is often recommended for the best support. Your surgeon will help you decide whether HBOT is appropriate for your specific procedure and healing timeline.​

2. Indiba Radiofrequency Therapy for Comfort and Swelling

Indiba is an advanced radiofrequency therapy available through The Practice Healthcare that gently warms tissues and activates the body’s repair pathways. It uses a precise 448 kilohertz radiofrequency to increase microcirculation, improve oxygen delivery, and encourage collagen remodeling, which can help your body heal more comfortably during breast cancer surgery recovery.​

This non-invasive treatment is used to reduce pain, swelling, and bruising, decrease post surgical discomfort, improve lymphatic drainage, and minimize scar tissue and adhesions. Indiba sessions are typically twenty to thirty minutes long, feel warm and soothing, and do not require downtime afterward. Your care team may begin treatments a few days after dressings are removed, then continue once or twice a week during your active healing phase with additional sessions as needed for persistent swelling or scar refinement.​

Patients who have had breast reconstruction, lumpectomy, or mastectomy often appreciate that Indiba supports both comfort and cosmetic results as their tissues heal. Your surgeon and post op care team will tailor the schedule to your procedure and goals.​

3. Peptide Therapy for Targeted Healing Support

Peptide therapy is another favorite post-operative option offered at The Practice Healthcare. Peptides are small proteins made of amino acids that your body naturally uses to signal cells to repair, protect, and regenerate. In breast cancer post op treatments in Beverly Hills, we use highly concentrated medical-grade peptides that have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain, improve blood flow, and support faster wound healing.​

Commonly used peptides after surgery include BPC 157, TB 500, and GHK Cu, which together can help speed tissue repair, reduce oxidative stress, and potentially lessen the need for certain pain medications. These peptides are typically given as small injections under the skin using a tiny needle similar in size to those used for aesthetic treatments.​

Most patients receive peptide therapy for about one to four weeks, starting soon after surgery, though your exact plan will be customized by your surgeon based on your procedure and recovery needs. The peptides used are produced in FDA-licensed 503A certified compounding pharmacies and are tested for sterility before use, which helps ensure a high level of safety and quality.​

Comprehensive Care You Can Trust

At Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills, CA, breast cancer recovery is never an afterthought. Breast surgeons Dr. Richardson and Dr. Memsic collaborate closely with reconstructive specialists Dr. Cassileth and Dr. Killeen to design a treatment and recovery plan that respects your medical needs and your personal goals. With the added support of The Practice Healthcare offerings, such as Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Indiba, and peptide therapy, you receive layered care that extends well beyond the operating room. 

If you are navigating breast cancer surgery recovery and would like to explore breast cancer post op treatments in Beverly Hills, we invite you to reach out. We work closely with patients on payment options so that finances are not your only focus during this time. You can use our online contact form to schedule a consultation or learn more. Our doctors and care team are here to answer your questions, help you understand your choices, and support you through every step of your healing journey.

The post Our 3 Favorite Post-Operative Recovery Treatments first appeared on Bedford Breast Center.

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/our-3-favorite-post-operative-recovery-treatments/

DLM Internal

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/dlm-internal/

Understanding Your Breast Cancer Diagnosis and What to Do Next

A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. It brings a flood of emotions, questions, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. At Bedford Breast Center in Beverly Hills, our mission is to walk beside you every step of the way, offering personalized guidance, advanced surgical options, and compassionate support. Our expert team is here to ensure that you are informed, cared for, and never alone on this journey.

Taking the First Steps After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

When you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, understanding exactly what it means is the first step toward healing. First and foremost: take a deep breath. There is time to take care of this. Different types of breast cancer require different treatment approaches, and it’s important to have clear, accurate information about your condition. At Bedford Breast Center, we help our patients understand the details of their diagnosis using advanced imaging, including 3D mammograms, so they can make informed decisions with confidence.

It’s going to take a few weeks to gather all the necessary information, and it is completely safe to do so. During this time, you’ll work with your care team to determine what additional imaging needs to be performed, what genetic testing may be recommended, what surgical options are most appropriate, and what additional treatments may be needed.

Imaging is typically one of the first priorities after a diagnosis. Understanding what is present on imaging helps your doctor know what needs to be addressed and what may be preserved. Your doctor will guide you through the appropriate options and any additional testing.

Genetic Testing

If you have received a breast cancer diagnosis, talk to your doctor about testing for mutated genes. Certain genetic mutations can influence your treatment plan and may have implications for other family members as well. Your care team at Bedford Breast Center can help guide you through this process.

Understanding Your Treatment Options

Once you understand your diagnosis, the next step is to plan your treatment path. That plan may include a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and other therapies tailored to your specific case.

Surgery

Surgery is often a key component of breast cancer treatment, and options generally fall into two main groups: mastectomy (removal of the breast) or breast conservation surgery, such as a lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue while preserving the breast). Your surgical team will help determine which approach is best suited to your diagnosis, anatomy, and personal goals.

At Bedford Breast Center, breast surgeons Dr. Richardson and Dr. Memsic perform lumpectomy, mastectomy, and related oncologic procedures. Thanks to continued innovations, patients now have more options than ever for safe and aesthetically pleasing outcomes. Following cancer surgery, plastic surgeons Dr. Cassileth and Dr. Killeen are two of the leading specialists shaping the future of breast reconstruction. Our breast surgeons and plastic surgeons work closely as a team to help our patients regain a sense of well-being following breast cancer diagnosis.

Chemotherapy

Some patients with breast cancer will need chemotherapy, while others will not. This decision depends on the characteristics of the cancer cells themselves, including whether they have special features that cause them to break away from their origin and spread throughout the body. Your oncology team will evaluate these factors to determine whether chemotherapy is part of your recommended treatment plan.

Radiation

Radiation therapy may also be recommended as part of your treatment, often following surgery. Like chemotherapy, whether radiation is needed depends on the specifics of your diagnosis. Your care team will walk you through what to expect if radiation is part of your plan.

What to Expect During and After Surgery

Depending on your surgical plan, recovery times can vary. Lumpectomy patients generally recover in one to two weeks, while mastectomy or reconstruction patients may need several weeks before resuming normal activities. Throughout your recovery, our care team monitors your healing closely and is available to answer questions or address any concerns that arise. We believe that recovery is not only physical but emotional, and we ensure each patient receives the compassion and support they need.

You can expect our team to guide you through every stage—from pre-surgical preparation and post-operative care to resources that help you feel comfortable and confident along the way. We also offer assistance with payment and financing options to ensure your focus remains on recovery, not financial stress.

Comprehensive and Compassionate Care at Bedford Breast Center

Our patients come to Bedford Breast Center because they want exceptional, personalized breast cancer treatment in Beverly Hills. With an expert team that includes Dr. Richardson, Dr. Memsic, Dr. Cassileth, Dr. Killeen, and other world-class physicians, we blend medical excellence with heartfelt compassion. Every consultation, procedure, and follow-up appointment is designed to help you feel informed, empowered, and cared for.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you do not have to face it alone. Bedford Breast Center provides a supportive environment and a full continuum of care, from diagnosis to reconstruction and beyond. Learn more about our team of providers or contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

The post Understanding Your Breast Cancer Diagnosis and What to Do Next first appeared on Bedford Breast Center.

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/understanding-your-breast-cancer-diagnosis-and-what-to-do-next/

DLM Internal

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/dlm-internal/

Breast Imaging Explained: Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammography & Beyond

The difference between screening and diagnostic mammograms lies in their purpose: screening mammograms are routine tests used to check for breast cancer in people without symptoms, while diagnostic mammograms investigate a specific concern or abnormal finding. Both play vital roles in early detection, but diagnostic mammograms involve additional imaging and evaluation by a radiologist while you’re present.

At Bedford Breast Center, we offer both screening and diagnostic mammography, along with advanced imaging technologies, like Vera Scan Breast CT and breast ultrasound, to provide a complete picture of your breast health.

What Is a Screening Mammogram?

A screening mammogram looks for signs of cancer when there are no symptoms or complaints of breast disease and neither you nor your doctor feels anything out of the ordinary.

What To Expect During the Exam

A screening mammogram is typically taken with 2 X-ray views of each breast, though additional images may be necessary for women with larger breasts. The goal is to detect breast cancer when it’s too small to be felt. This once-a-year check helps ensure that subtle abnormalities are not missed.

When & How Often To Schedule a Mammogram

Yearly screening mammograms are recommended for all women starting at age 40, along with a yearly clinical breast exam by your healthcare professional. If you have a higher risk for breast cancer, your doctor may recommend a mammogram at an earlier age.

Why Early Detection Matters

Detecting breast cancer as early as possible, before it has grown or spread, greatly improves a woman’s chance of a successful treatment.

What Is a Diagnostic Mammogram?

Diagnostic mammograms investigate concerns and involve additional views of the breast. These images are the same as a screening mammogram, but the focus is on an area that appears abnormal or was identified as a concern by you, your doctor, or a previous screening.

What Happens During an Exam?

A radiologist evaluates these images while you’re present and will explain the next steps. Sometimes, a diagnostic mammogram is used for women previously treated for breast cancer.

Understanding Your Results

1. What is seen or felt is likely attributable to healthy tissue.

• We may want to check that area again in 6 months to be extra safe. (This does not mean you’ll need a mammogram every 6 months forever!)
• We may feel completely confident that it is safe and return you to your regular screening schedule.

2. It requires additional imaging to get more advanced views and clarity 

• Either Dr. Memsic or Dr. Richardson can provide this order if you are under their care, or your referring physician can provide it.

2. It requires a tissue sample (biopsy) to determine the nature of the area.

• This can sometimes be done during the same visit, if it is seen on ultrasound.
• If it requires mammogram guidance, this may need to be done at a later time, as it requires more preparation than an ultrasound biopsy.
• Surgical removal is not usually the first line of investigation before a core needle biopsy has been done, but it can be a good choice for specific situations. Let us know if you think you may fall into this category.

You must have an order from a doctor to undergo a diagnostic mammogram. If you have seen Dr. Memsic or Dr. Richardson at our breast care center, we can sometimes provide this order for you.

Other Breast Imaging Options Available at Bedford Breast Center

In addition to traditional mammography, Bedford Breast Center offers advanced imaging technologies that provide greater comfort, precision, and clarity in diagnosis. Depending on your needs, your doctor may recommend one of the following:

Vera Scan Breast CT

Our Vera Scan Breast CT system provides a groundbreaking alternative to traditional mammography. Using low-dose CT technology, Vera Scan creates a 360-degree, high-resolution image of the breast without compression or discomfort.

This technology offers:

• Enhanced detection with ultra-detailed 3D images for more accurate diagnosis.
• No compression required, providing a pain-free experience.
• Gentle imaging for implants and sensitive tissue.
• Fast results, with scans completed in just 7 seconds per breast.

Vera Scan is particularly beneficial for patients with dense breasts, implants, or recent surgeries, as it captures fine details that may be difficult to detect through traditional mammography.

Learn more about how Vera Scan makes breast imaging more comfortable and reassuring for the right patients.  

Breast Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue, helping determine whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled. It’s often performed after a mammogram shows an abnormality or if your provider feels something unusual during an exam.

Key benefits include:

• No radiation exposure, making it safe and painless.
• Ideal for younger women with dense breast tissue.
• Real-time imaging that can guide biopsies when needed.

Ultrasound complements mammography by offering additional insights, particularly in cases where dense tissue makes it difficult to detect abnormalities.

By combining traditional and advanced imaging methods, Bedford Breast Center ensures you receive the most accurate, comfortable, and comprehensive breast health evaluation possible.

Take the Next Step

To schedule an appointment, contact our Beverly Hills medical center online or call us at (310) 278-8590.

This post was originally written in 2022 and has been updated in 2025.

The post Breast Imaging Explained: Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammography & Beyond first appeared on Bedford Breast Center.

from
https://www.bedfordbreastcenter.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-screening-and-diagnostic-mammography/