Breast Imaging

Breast imaging looks for and diagnoses breast problems, using scans such as mammography and ultrasound. Our breast radiologists read these scans and carry out image-guided biopsies, so a change can be checked and, where it's needed, sampled and reported. We provide this at breast centres and imaging units across our UAE hospitals.

What is breast imaging?

Breast imaging is the branch of radiology that uses scans to find and diagnose problems in the breast. It covers screening for people with no symptoms, and checks prompted by a symptom such as a lump or nipple change. A breast radiologist reads and reports the pictures, recalls you if something needs a closer look, and can take a small tissue sample guided by the scan. Breast imaging finds and diagnoses; breast surgery and breast oncology treat what's found.

Who has breast imaging?

People come to breast imaging by two routes. The first is screening: a mammogram for well women with no symptoms, to look for early breast cancer before it can be felt. The second is a diagnostic scan, when you or your doctor notices a change or you've been referred for a closer look.

You might be referred or booked in if you have:

• A new breast lump or thickening
• A change in the shape or size of a breast
• Nipple discharge or a change in the nipple
• Skin changes such as dimpling or puckering
• A screening result that needs a closer look

Screening ages and intervals are set by local guidance and your personal risk, so it's worth asking your doctor when to start and how often. Most breast changes turn out to be harmless, but it's best to see your doctor promptly about a new lump or change so it can be checked.

What to expect

At your appointment, a radiographer or radiologist explains what will happen and answers your questions. A mammogram takes low-dose x-ray pictures while the breast is gently pressed between two plates for a few seconds, which can feel uncomfortable but is quick. An ultrasound may be added, especially if your breast tissue is dense or there's a specific area to look at more closely. Bringing any earlier breast scans helps us compare and spot small changes.

If a scan shows something that needs checking, we may recommend a biopsy: a fine needle or a slightly larger needle takes a small sample, guided by the scan. The sample goes to the laboratory, and sometimes a tiny marker is left to show the spot. Your radiologist explains the findings and, together with your referring doctor, talks through what happens next.

Breast Imaging at Mediclinic

We provide breast imaging across our hospitals in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Our breast radiologists carry out your scans and report the results. Their work spans routine screening, diagnostic checks when there's a symptom, and closer surveillance for people at higher risk. A mammogram is usually the first scan, with breast ultrasound added when the tissue is dense or a finding needs a closer look. Where a sample is needed, we carry out image-guided biopsies and can place a small marker to guide any surgery that follows. We share the results with the doctor who referred you, so the next steps aren't held up.