The Triangle Leader in 3D + AI Mammography
Wake Radiology UNC REX offers 3D mammography at all of our dedicated breast imaging offices. With the most offices in the Triangle, we’re located right where you live and work.
We make it easy to get your annual screening mammogram.
- Evening, early morning and weekend appointments available.
- The most outpatient breast imaging offices located throughout the Triangle.
- We’ll have you in, out and on your way in 30 minutes or less.
- A physician’s referral isn’t needed to get your screening mammogram if you’ve see your primary care provider within the past18 months.
All of our offices are staffed with experienced female mammography technologists who are accredited by the American College of Radiology. Your mammogram images will be interpreted by board certified radiologists subspecialized in breast imaging.
Quick Info about Mammography
Wake Radiology UNC REX recommends mammograms starting at age 40. High-quality, annual 3D mammography remains a woman’s best option for early breast cancer detection.
- Long-term follow up in multiple studies have shown an 18-29% reduction in breast cancer mortality when annual screening is done between ages 40-50.
- Mammography detected breast cancer in the 40-50 age group results in lower-stage disease, reduced treatment and lower rates of recurrence.
- 3D mammography improves cancer detection in dense breasts, a significant issue for the 40-45 age group., One out of two women in this age range have dense breast tissue. 3D mammography also helps reduce patient anxiety, provides increased clarity, and reduces the need for follow-up tests.
The following medical organizations affirm that 40 is the right age to start annual screening mammograms.
| THE EXPERTS | MINIMUM AGE TO START | FREQUENCY |
| American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists | 40 | Annually |
| American College of Radiology/Society of Breast Imaging | 40 | Annually |
| American Medical Association | 40 | Annually |
| National Comprehensive Cancer Network | 40 | Annually |
| American Cancer Society | 40 (Individual choice) |
45-54 Annually 55-Older Every 1-2yrs. |
| U.S. Preventive Services Task Force | 40 (Individual choice) |
50-74: Every 2yrs. |
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide.
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A mammogram can detect cancer early when it is most treatable.
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Even though this is the case, nearly a third of American women currently do not get regular mammograms.
There is nothing more important to Wake Radiology, than our patients' experience. Check out some of the stories our patients have shared with us. One may possibly impact you or help you through your health journey. Learn more...
Steps for the Best Possible Mammogram
1. |
Have your mammogram at a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence (BICOE) as named by the American College of Radiology. All Wake Radiology UNC REX offices have earned this designation. |
| 2. | Schedule your mammogram one week after your period or when your breasts are least sensitive. |
3. |
Don’t wear deodorant or powders. Some contain aluminum flecks which can show on your images and make it difficult for the radiologist to interpret. We do provide clean wipes and deodorant to patients after their exam. |
4. |
Wear a two-piece outfit so you only have to remove your top garment and not be completely undressed. |
5. |
Relax. We’ll do our best to make you comfortable and answer your questions while we gather high-quality images. |
What is 3D mammography and what are its benefits?
3D mammography is a revolutionary new screening and diagnostic tool designed for early breast cancer detection. We believe it’s the most revolutionary breast screening breakthrough in nearly 20 years. During a 3D mammogram, the x-ray arm sweeps over the breast in an arc taking multiple images. A computer then produces a layered, 3D image of the breast tissue so a radiologist can scan through the 1mm images like pages in a book. Said another way, 3D mammography provides greater detail and allows a radiologist see “inside” the breast layer by layer to find cancers earlier than ever. 
Download 3D Mammography Facts
Greater accuracy for earlier and easier detection. With conventional mammography, the radiologist views breast tissue as a flat image which can appear overlapped and make normal breast tissue look abnormal. 3D mammography virtually eliminates these challenges allowing the radiologist to see different structures as well as the location, size and shape of any abnormal tissue, like smaller, more invasive cancers. 3D mammography has been shown to improve breast cancer detection by 27-50%.- Fewer call backs. In the past, patients had to return for additional images when a radiologist saw a questionable area. When breast tissue is viewed in smaller, thinner sections, a “second look” is less necessary. 3D mammography has been shown to reduce recall rates by 17-40%.
Am I a candidate for 3D mammography?
Wake Radiology breast imaging experts believe all patients can benefit from this revolutionary technology regardless of their breast density or family history of breast cancer. Doctors and scientists agree that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. Clinical studies have shown that 3D mammography is more accurate than conventional mammography alone by detecting cancers earlier as well as reducing recall rates.
How do I choose 3D mammography for my appointment?
It’s easy. Just let our scheduling team know that you’d like to have a 3D mammogram when you request an appointment online or by phone at 919-232-4700. You may also request a 3D mammogram when you check-in for your appointment.
Where can I schedule my 3D screening mammogram?
Wake Radiology offers 3D mammography at multiple locations throughout the greater Triangle area. Our schedulers can help you find a location closest to you, simply call 919-232-4700 them today!
If you’ve had a mammogram at another location or provider, we will request your prior exams for comparison.
What if my doctor did not mention 3D mammography to me?
As a patient, having a 3D mammogram is your choice. Most area providers are extremely supportive of this revolutionary technology since it provides greater clarity and improved detection for breast cancer. You can request a 3D mammogram on your own or choose to discuss the benefits of 3D mammography with your doctor before scheduling your next exam.
Are there any risks with 3D mammography?
3D mammography is approved for use by the FDA and uses a low strength x-ray during the exam. While a 3D mammogram does have more radiation than a 2D mammogram, but the amount is less than the recommended guidelines set by the American College of Radiology for 2D mammography alone.
Can I have a 3D mammogram if I have breast implants?
Yes, it’s important for all women over 40 to have screening mammograms. 3D mammograms have a specific setting for breast implants. 3D images of the breast are taken of the tissue in front of the implant in addition to the regular images of the breast. Read more about why women with breast implants should still have a mammogram.
Is there an additional cost for 3D mammography and will my insurance cover it?
The 3D portion of your screening mammogram is currently covered by most major insurance carriers, including Medicare and NC Medicaid.
We strongly recommend that you verify coverage with your carrier before your appointment. Wake Radiology offers payment plans for all exams, including 3D mammograms. Our breast imaging radiologists believe so strongly in this advanced technology we don’t want costs to keep you from having this potentially lifesaving screening.
Check which insurance plans are in-network with Wake Radiology.
Who is at risk?
The American Cancer Society estimates that one out of every eight women will develop breast cancer. While you can’t change these numbers, you can increase your chances for survival and a full productive life. Early detection is the key.
We’ve pulled together a number of resources to help women know more about the factors that can place them at high risk for breast cancer. It’s important to note that being “high risk” doesn’t mean that you will absolutely, positively, without question develop breast cancer. It means that when statistically compared to other women, your chance is higher. And, sometimes only slightly.
How is a mammogram performed?
A mammogram is performed in an upright position. The breast tissue is firmly compressed between two plates for a complete view of the entire breast. Generally, two or three views are taken of each breast. During a 3D mammogram, the arm sweeps over the breast in an arc to take the additional 15 low-dose pictures. The images are compiled into a 3D image for the radiologist to review and compare to any previous mammograms. Cancer usually appears as a more dense, irregular area than the surrounding breast tissue.
Is radiation from a mammogram harmful?
Mammography uses a safe, low-dose x-ray. The risk of developing breast cancer as a result of this amount of radiation is equal to the risk of dying from lung cancer after smoking one-fourth of a cigarette.
Do I need a screening mammogram if I don't have any lumps in my breast?
Annual mammograms are important even if you don’t have visible or palpable lumps in your breast. Annual screenings scan the breast for possible irregularities that you may not be able to feel. Mammograms can detect lumps as much as two years before they can be felt.
Does a Mammogram Take the Place of a Manual Breast Examination?
No. The best chance a woman has for early detection of cancer is to combine annual screening mammograms with a manual breast examination by an experienced doctor. A woman should also practice monthly breast self examination.
What is the Difference between a Screening and Diagnostic Mammogram?
Diagnostic mammography is a targeted examination for women with specific breast problems. The procedure is similar to a screening mammogram; however, several additional views may be required.
What is a Baseline Mammogram?
A baseline mammogram is the name used for your first screening mammogram. It is important because it is usually used as the basis for comparison in later tests.
Why Aren't Mammogram 100% Foolproof?
Breast tissue is different in all women. Sometimes a cancer is not imaged on the mammogram because the surrounding breast tissue is the same density as the cancer. Mammograms do not image 10%–20% of the cancers. This is why you also need to have periodic physical exams by a qualified doctor.
When and Why Would I Need a Breast Ultrasound?
In order to complete your breast imaging exam, the radiologist may request a breast ultrasound. An ultrasound of the breast is a valuable aid to mammography. It is often used to determine the composition of structures in the breast that can be felt or that are detected on the mammogram. If you have been to our office for a screening mammogram, you may be contacted to return for a breast ultrasound. Patients receiving diagnostic mammograms can usually have an ultrasound performed while you are in the office on a work-in basis.
Accredited facilities conveniently located throughout Triangle
Wake Radiology offers breast imaging services at many Triangle locations, and all services are interpreted by board certified radiologists, many of who are dedicated to breast imaging. All of the offices are accredited by the American College of Radiology and have earned the ACR’s highest recognition as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence (BICOE).
Download our office hours and locations!