Breast Ultrasound
After a screening exam, your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound to learn more about your health. Depend on the professionals at Torrance Memorial for convenient testing that delivers accurate, timely results.
What is Breast Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of the breast. The test is:
- Performed by a sonographer, a professional trained to use ultrasound technology
- Fast and safe
- Non-invasive and doesn’t use radiation
Why Do I Need a Breast Ultrasound?
A physical exam, mammogram, or another type of breast scan may show a lump or dense area in your breast. Your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound to get more details about the unusual tissue. Ultrasounds can rule out potential problems or determine if you should have additional testing, such as a breast biopsy.
Imaging Services Near You
Because our Breast Diagnostic Centers offer ultrasound in Torrance, Carson, Manhattan Beach, and Rolling Hills Estates, you can choose the setting closest to you.
Flexible, Convenient Scheduling
Schedule your appointment on the date and time that works best for you. Our dedicated Breast Diagnostic Center in Torrance has four ultrasound examination rooms to offer access to patients quickly.
How to Prepare
Plan to wear clothing that is loose and comfortable, and leave any jewelry at home. Otherwise, you can go about your normal activities before your appointment.
What to Expect
When you arrive, you’ll go to a private room where you can undress from the waist up and put on a gown. You’ll then go to the ultrasound examination room, where you’ll lie down on a table on your back or side. Your sonographer may help you get into position or ask you to raise your arms.
The professional puts a small amount of gel on the area of the breast under examination. Next, your sonographer moves a device called a transducer back and forth on the area. The transducer sends out silent, high-frequency sound waves. The images appear on a nearby video monitor.
The test is not painful, but you may feel a little pressure.
After the Exam
Your sonographer will wipe off the gel. When you leave, you can resume your normal activities right away.
How Long Will My Appointment Last?
Your test will likely take about 30 minutes.
Your Test Results
Ask us when and how you’ll receive your test results. Most results are available to your doctor the day following your screening. The information should appear in your patient portal as soon as it’s available.
