FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

woman standing at a mammogram machine getting tested

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Your SBC Appointment

What tests can I get done?

Unlike other radiology clinics, your appointment at the SBC is entirely comprehensive and completed in one day. Your appointment will consist of a consultation with your specialist, followed by a mammogram and/or ultrasound, biopsy if required, and the face-to-face return of your results at the end of your appointment.

How long will it take?

As the requirements of each patient can vary widely, and thus every appointment is unique, we are unable to confirm your exact during in the clinic. However, we do advise patients to allow up to 4 hours in the clinic for a standard appointment to ensure all necessary testing can be completed.

Do you only accept high risk patients?

We welcome and encourage patients of all risk profiles to come into the clinic. Our service model is designed to ensure that patients only undertake the tests that are necessary to achieve a diagnosis. We commonly see high-risk or symptomatic patients who require more comprehensive assessment than can be offered at other imaging services, although we also frequently provide general screening for asymptomatic patients.

Breast Imaging – Mammogram & Ultrasound

Can I get a mammogram if I am on my period?

Yes, it is entirely safe to have mammographic testing while on your period. Be mindful that your breasts may be more sensitive than usual.

Do you have MRIs?

No, we only provide mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies. However, our breast specialist are able to provide you with a referral for an MRI off-site if they would like you to receive further imaging after your SBC appointment.

Is there a chance I will have surgery in your clinic?

The procedures we perform on-site are non-surgical biopsies and cyst aspirations. We have breast surgeons who consult at our clinic, in addition to a network of breast surgeons throughout Sydney at major public and private hospitals to whom we refer. Our breast surgeons can consult with you about any surgery that may be required, and you can be booked for surgery at the hospital they attend.

Can I have a mammogram if I have breast implants?

Yes. Our radiographers are trained to perform mammograms for patients with rbeast implants. Unlike a standard mammogram which requires 2 different positions on each breast, implants require more images to be taken. These include views with the implant displaced, or pushed back towards the chest wall with the soft tissue pulled forward, and images with the implant in view. Note the images that contain the implant will be performed with very little pressure so as to not injure the implant at all.

Why do I need a mammogram if I will need an ultrasound aswell anyway?

Unfortunately, some cancers will only show up on a mammogram and not be seen on an ultrasound, while others will only show up on the ultrasound and not be seen on a mammogram. For it is best practice for women with dense breast tissue to have both a mammogram and an ultrasound.

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

What is CEM?

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) is a state-of-the-art breast imaging technique, in which an intravenous contrast agent is injected immediately prior to a ‘dual-energy’ mammogram (two images) being performed. One image is ‘subtracted’ from the other to create an image demonstrating only the blood distribution in the breast tissues, more effectively enhancing lesions through dense tissue.

Is CEM an additional mammogram?

No. CEM is only the addition of the contrast dye immediately before your standard mammogram. It does not require a second mammogram or any alteration to the standard mammographic process & position types.

Who can get CEM at the SBC?

CEM is available to all patients.

Patients who may benefit the most from CEM:

Have an increased risk of developing breast cancer (e.g. family history of breast or ovarian cancer)
Have dense or lumpy breasts
Are investigating any breast symptoms
Are assessing a current or past breast cancer

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Patients who are advised AGAINST the use of CEM:

Have a known allergy to iodine
Have kidney disease or impaired kidney function
Are pregnant*

*CEM is suitable if you are breastfeeding but no longer pregnant

Do I need to specify ahead of time if I want CEM?

No. During your consultation with both our clinical staff and your SBC breast specialist in your appointment you can discuss if CEM is appropriate for you. No prior organization is required to confirm eligibility.

Do I need to fast before my SBC appointment if I am interested in CEM?

No. There is no need to fast before your appointment if you are hoping to receive a contrast enhanced mammogram.

Can I have CEM if I have breast implants?

Yes. CEM is safe and viable for patients with breast implants. The mammographic positioning will remain consistent with the standard protocols for breast implant mammography.

Fees and Appointment Logistics

Will Medicare and government services cover the costs?

There are unique rebates available for any holders of Medicare, Pension, Government Healthcare (excluding seniors’ card) and Veterans cards. Please bring these in with you to your appointment to confirm eligibility and allow processing through our billing system.

Will private health insurance cover the costs?

We are not responsible for private healthcare cover. Following your appointment, you will receive an itemized receipt of the costs. You can lodge your private healthcare claims individually or contact your healthcare provider if you have questions.

Do I need to pay my account on the same day?

Full payment is made on the day of testing, and we accept all major credit cards. For patients who hold eligible Medicare, healthcare or veterans’ cards, rebates are lodged by us on the day and usually refunded into a nominated bank account within a week. An external fee (that is also eligible for a Medicare rebate) may apply from our pathology partner if biopsies are taken. This is often issued 5-7 working days after your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in Touch

Your SBC Appointment

Breast Imaging – Mammogram & Ultrasound

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

Fees and Appointment Logistics

Expert care with same-day results.
For your peace of mind.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get in Touch

Your SBC Appointment

What tests can I get done?

How long will it take?

Do you only accept high risk patients?

Breast Imaging – Mammogram & Ultrasound

Can I get a mammogram if I am on my period?

Do you have MRIs?

Is there a chance I will have surgery in your clinic?

Can I have a mammogram if I have breast implants?

Why do I need a mammogram if I will need an ultrasound aswell anyway?

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

What is CEM?

Is CEM an additional mammogram?

Who can get CEM at the SBC?

Do I need to specify ahead of time if I want CEM?

Do I need to fast before my SBC appointment if I am interested in CEM?

Can I have CEM if I have breast implants?

Fees and Appointment Logistics

Will Medicare and government services cover the costs?

Will private health insurance cover the costs?

Do I need to pay my account on the same day?

Expert care with same-day results.For your peace of mind.

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Legal

Expert care with same-day results.
For your peace of mind.