When and How Frequent Should I Have My Mammogram Screening?

November 28, 2024

Taking care of your breast health is a vital part of maintaining overall well-being, and mammogram screenings play a significant role in early detection of breast cancer. But how do you know when to start and how often to go? Understanding these details can make scheduling and staying consistent with mammograms much easier.

Let’s explore the key factors that determine when and how frequently you should have your mammogram screenings.

1. What Is a Mammogram and Why Is It Important?

A mammogram is a specialised X-ray of the breast designed to detect abnormalities, including early signs of breast cancer, even before symptoms appear. Regular mammogram screenings significantly increase the chances of detecting cancer at an early, more treatable stage.

For many women, the idea of a mammogram can feel intimidating or uncomfortable, but the process is quick, and the benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort. It’s one of the most effective tools for maintaining breast health and catching potential issues before they become serious.

2. When Should You Start Mammogram Screenings?

The age to begin mammogram screenings depends on several factors, including your age, medical history, and family history of breast cancer.

For Women with Average Risk – Most health experts recommend starting annual or biennial mammogram screenings at age 40. However, some guidelines suggest starting at age 45 and then switching to screenings every two years from age 55.
For Women with Higher Risk – If you have a family history of breast cancer or carry genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, your doctor may recommend starting screenings as early as your 30s or even younger.

The key is to discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor. They can guide you in making an informed decision about when to start.

3. How Often Should You Have a Mammogram?

Frequency depends on your risk level and age group:

Ages 40–49 – Women in this age group are often advised to have annual mammograms. While breast cancer is less common at this age, regular screenings increase the likelihood of catching any abnormalities early.
Ages 50–74 – For women with average risk, mammograms every two years are typically recommended. However, some women may prefer to continue with annual screenings for added reassurance.
Ages 75 and Above – The decision to continue mammograms in this age group depends on your overall health and life expectancy. Your doctor will help weigh the benefits against any potential risks.

Women at higher risk for breast cancer may need more frequent screenings, sometimes paired with additional imaging like ultrasounds or MRIs.

4. Factors That May Impact Your Screening Schedule

Your mammogram schedule may change over time depending on personal and medical factors, such as:

Family History – If a close relative has had breast cancer, earlier and more frequent screenings might be recommended.
Hormonal Changes – Women undergoing hormone replacement therapy may need closer monitoring.
Previous Breast Conditions – If you’ve had a benign breast condition or past abnormal mammograms, your doctor may advise additional screenings.

Regular check-ins with your doctor ensure your mammogram schedule is tailored to your needs.

5. What to Expect During a Mammogram Screening

Knowing what happens during a mammogram can ease anxiety about the process.

The Preparation – Avoid wearing deodorants, lotions, or powders on the day of your appointment, as they can interfere with imaging. Dress in a two-piece outfit for convenience, as you’ll need to undress from the waist up.
The Procedure – A technician will position your breast on the machine and compress it for a few seconds to capture clear images. While this might feel uncomfortable, the compression is brief and necessary for accurate results.
The Follow-Up – Your doctor will review the images and discuss the results with you. Most screenings result in normal findings, but if something unusual is detected, further testing may be recommended.

6. Overcoming Barriers to Regular Screenings

Many women delay or avoid mammograms due to fear, cost concerns, or a busy schedule. Here are some tips to stay on track:

Educate yourself – Knowing the life-saving benefits of early detection can motivate you to prioritise your screenings.
Schedule in advance – Book your mammograms at a time that works best for you and set a recurring reminder for future appointments.
Choose a trusted clinic – Feeling comfortable with your healthcare provider makes the experience much easier.

At Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic, we strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment for all our patients.

7. Book Your Mammogram Screening Today

Taking control of your breast health starts with scheduling your mammogram. Whether it’s your first time or you’re due for your next screening, prioritising this vital step is an investment in your well-being.

At Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic, we offer comprehensive mammogram screenings tailored to your needs. Our team of caring professionals is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind.

Don’t wait until symptoms appear—early detection saves lives. Book your mammogram screening today and take the first step toward proactive breast health. Your health and future are worth it.

When Should You Visit a Breast Clinic?

November 14, 2024

Taking care of your breast health is an important part of overall well-being, and knowing when to visit a breast clinic can make all the difference in early detection and prevention. Many women wonder if they should wait until something seems wrong, but the truth is, being proactive about your breast health can help catch potential issues early when they’re most treatable. So, when exactly should you consider visiting a breast clinic? Let’s break it down.

1. Routine Screenings – A Proactive Approach

One of the most common reasons to visit a breast clinic is for routine breast screenings, such as a mammogram. These screenings are typically recommended for women over 40, but if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, your doctor might suggest starting earlier.

Regular mammograms are a key tool in detecting breast cancer in its early stages, sometimes before you can even feel a lump. Early detection can lead to better treatment outcomes, so it’s important not to skip your screenings. If you haven’t had one in the last year or two, now’s a good time to schedule an appointment.

2. Changes in Your Breasts – Something Feels Different?

If you notice any changes in your breasts, it’s important to get them checked by a professional. Changes to look out for include:

Lumps or thickening – Any new lump or thick area in your breast that doesn’t feel like the surrounding tissue.
Skin changes – Redness, dimpling, or puckering on the skin of your breast, which may resemble the skin of an orange.
Nipple changes – Unexplained discharge, inversion, or pain around the nipple.
Pain – While breast pain isn’t usually a sign of cancer, any persistent pain, especially if it doesn’t go away with your normal cycle, should be looked at.

Even if you don’t feel a lump but notice other changes, it’s always worth having it checked out. It’s better to be safe and get peace of mind knowing that everything is okay or catch a potential issue early.

3. Family History of Breast Cancer

If breast cancer runs in your family, you may have a higher risk of developing it yourself. In this case, it’s important to stay on top of your screenings and breast health check-ups. While family history doesn’t guarantee you will get breast cancer, it does increase your risk, so regular visits to a breast clinic can help with early detection.

If you have a mother, sister, or daughter who has had breast cancer, or if you’ve had other family members with it, talk to your doctor about your options for starting screenings earlier or more frequently. A breast clinic can offer personalised advice on how to monitor your breast health based on your family history.

4. After a Diagnosis of Other Health Conditions

If you have a history of certain conditions, like ovarian cancer or a genetic mutation (for example, the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene), your risk of developing breast cancer can be higher. In such cases, regular visits to a breast clinic are crucial. Genetic counselling and testing can also be offered to determine your risk and guide the frequency of screenings.

If you’ve been diagnosed with any other health condition that affects your hormones, such as endometriosis, it’s also wise to keep up with regular breast exams to monitor your overall breast health.

5. Advice and Support for Any Concerns

You don’t have to wait for a specific symptom or risk factor to visit a breast clinic. If you’re ever feeling uncertain about your breast health, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional. A breast clinic can provide a thorough check-up, guidance on self-exams, and education about what’s normal for you.

Sometimes, you may have questions about breast health that don’t involve any immediate concerns. Whether it’s questions about hormonal changes, breastfeeding, or managing breast pain, a visit to a breast clinic can offer helpful advice and resources to support your overall health.

6. Peace of Mind

Ultimately, one of the best reasons to visit a breast clinic is simply for peace of mind. If you’re ever unsure about changes you’ve noticed in your breasts or just want to make sure you’re on top of your health, visiting a clinic can help ease your mind. Regular check-ups and early screenings are key to maintaining long-term breast health and giving you confidence that you’re doing everything you can to take care of yourself.

Visit A Breast Clinic Now

Knowing when to visit a breast clinic doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s for routine screening, to investigate changes in your breasts, or for personalised advice based on your risk factors, staying proactive about your breast health is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic offers comprehensive screenings, consultations, and support every step of the way. We understand that your health is your top priority, and we’re committed to helping you feel confident and informed about your breast health.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up or if you’ve noticed any changes that concern you, don’t hesitate to book a consultation today.

Book your screening or consultation today and take charge of your breast health for a brighter, healthier future.

What to Expect During Your Mammogram Screening

November 14, 2024

If you’ve been advised to schedule a mammogram screening, you’re taking an important step in maintaining your breast health. A mammogram is a simple, yet highly effective way to detect early signs of breast cancer, sometimes before you can feel any lumps or changes yourself. While it may sound intimidating, understanding the process can help ease any nerves and make your visit a lot more comfortable. Here’s what you can expect when you go for your mammogram screening.

1. Booking Your Appointment

The first step is to make your appointment. Mammograms are typically recommended for women aged 40 and above, although your doctor might suggest one earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. When booking, the clinic staff will ask for some basic information, including any history of breast issues or surgeries, so they can tailor the screening to your needs.

2. Preparing for the Screening

Before heading to your appointment, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure everything goes smoothly:

Avoid deodorant and lotions – The chemicals in deodorants, powders, and lotions can sometimes show up on the mammogram, making it harder to interpret the results. It’s best to avoid applying these products on the day of your screening.
Wear a two-piece outfit – Since you’ll need to remove your top for the screening, wearing something easy to take off, like a blouse or a t-shirt, will help you feel more comfortable.
Timing matters – If you’re still menstruating, try to schedule your mammogram a week after your period. Your breasts may be less tender during this time.

3. The Screening Process

Once you arrive at the clinic, you’ll be greeted by the staff, who will take you to a private changing room. Here, you’ll remove your top and bra and put on a gown that opens at the front.

A mammogram is performed using a machine called a mammography unit. This machine uses low-dose X-rays to capture images of your breast tissue. You’ll stand in front of the machine, and the technologist will position your breasts one at a time on a flat surface.

They will then gently press your breast between two plates, which may feel a bit uncomfortable or even slightly painful, but it’s over quickly. The compression is necessary to get clear images and to ensure that the X-rays can capture even the smallest abnormalities. The technologist will take a series of images from different angles, and each time they’ll ask you to hold your breath for a few seconds to get a clear shot.

4. The Duration of the Screening

The whole process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, though the actual imaging only takes a few minutes. While you may feel some discomfort when the breast is compressed, the procedure is quick, and the discomfort typically doesn’t last long.

5. After the Screening

Once the mammogram is complete, you’ll be free to get dressed and go about your day. The images taken will be sent to a radiologist, a doctor trained in reading mammograms. They’ll carefully review the images for any signs of abnormality. In most cases, you’ll be contacted with the results within a few days.

If the radiologist finds anything that requires further examination, you may be asked to return for additional imaging, like an ultrasound or a second mammogram. However, it’s important to know that most mammograms don’t show any signs of cancer, and additional tests don’t necessarily mean there’s a problem.

6. The Importance of Regular Mammograms

Mammograms are one of the most powerful tools in early breast cancer detection. By detecting breast cancer early, you increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery. The American Cancer Society recommends that women start annual mammograms at age 40, but your doctor might suggest a different schedule based on your health history.

Book Your Mammogram Screening Today

If you’re due for a mammogram or have concerns about your breast health, there’s no better time to take action than now. We understand that the idea of a screening might feel a bit intimidating, but rest assured, the process is quick, simple, and incredibly important for your long-term health.

Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back—prioritise your peace of mind and your health. At Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to schedule a routine screening or need a consultation for any breast health concerns, we’re ready to help.

Take the first step towards better health today. Book your mammogram screening or consultation now and ensure you’re on the path to a healthy future. Your health matters, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Breast cancer is difficult to survive if detected late.

August 8, 2024

Finding Relief from Physical Discomfort Through Breast Reduction Surgery

July 3, 2023

Picture this: no more struggling to find clothes that fit properly or attempting to hide behind oversized tops. Imagine waking up in the morning and feeling physically and emotionally lighter as the weight of the world is lifted off your chest—quite literally!

For many women, the problem is that their breasts are too heavy. They cause pain and discomfort, especially when you feel them on your shoulders or back. Sometimes, they take away from the rest of your body shape and make clothing fit weirdly.

Say goodbye to chronic neck and back pain caused by the constant strain of carrying excess breast tissue. With breast reduction surgery, you can bid farewell to those nagging discomforts that have held you back for far too long.

Breast reduction surgery is a big decision and one that can be overwhelming. There are many things to consider: the risks, the cost, the recovery time… and it’s hard to know where to start.

What Is Breast Reduction Surgery?

You’ve probably heard about breast reduction surgery. But what does it actually do?

Breast reduction is a procedure that reduces the size of your breasts and can help reduce pain and other symptoms caused by overly large breasts. It’s usually done to make wearing clothes or bras more comfortable, but sometimes it’s also done to improve the look of your breasts.

The surgery is done under general anaesthesia in a hospital or outpatient surgery centre, which will have you stay in the hospital overnight after the procedure.

The surgery removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from your breasts. It’s also about reshaping them into smaller, more proportionate sizes. This will reduce their weight and give them a more youthful shape.

What Does Breast Reduction Surgery Do?

Breast reduction surgery is about reducing the size of a woman’s breasts. It’s an excellent way to achieve smaller, more proportionate breasts and can help women with different types of physical issues related to their breasts.

Breast reduction surgery isn’t done just for cosmetic reasons; it’s often done to address physical discomfort or pain caused by the size of a woman’s breasts. Women with large breasts may experience back pain, shoulder pain, skin irritation from bra straps or underwire bras, nipple pain (from wearing tight clothing), or other daily symptoms that make their life difficult.

Who Can Have a Breast Reduction Surgery?

While the decision to undergo this surgery is personal, certain factors can help determine if you are a suitable candidate. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

Physical Discomfort and Health Issues

If you experience chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain due to the weight of your breasts, breast reduction surgery may be an appropriate option. The procedure can alleviate these physical discomforts and improve your overall well-being. Additionally, if you have recurring skin irritation, rashes, or infections beneath the breasts, breast reduction surgery can help alleviate these issues.

Proportionate Concerns and Body Image

Women who feel self-conscious or unhappy with their disproportionately large breasts may find relief and improved self-esteem through breast reduction surgery. If you struggle to find clothing that fits well, have difficulty participating in physical activities, or feel that your breasts are out of proportion with the rest of your body, the surgery can help bring balance and harmony to your overall physique.

Emotional and Psychological Factors

The emotional impact of living with overly large breasts should not be underestimated. Women who feel self-conscious, experience social anxiety, or have a negative body image due to the attention their breasts attract may benefit from breast reduction surgery. It can help restore self-confidence, alleviate emotional distress, and improve overall quality of life.

Health and Lifestyle Considerations

Having good overall health is a must. If you have certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure, your surgeon may recommend addressing those conditions first. Also, if you’re a smoker, you may be advised to quit smoking well before the surgery to promote optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.

Realistic Expectations and Communication

It is crucial to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of breast reduction surgery. Consulting with a qualified oncoplastic breast surgeon is essential to discuss your goals, expectations, and concerns. Your surgeon will assess your circumstances, perform a physical examination, and guide you through the process, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for the surgery.

How Big Do Your Breasts Need to Be to Get a Reduction?

When determining the size requirements for breast reduction surgery, you must know that it doesn’t only depend on a specific cup size. The decision to undergo breast reduction surgery is primarily based on the individual’s symptoms, physical discomfort, and overall well-being.

Is It Painful to Have a Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep. This helps ensure you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery. However, some may experience pain or discomfort during recovery after the surgery.

After the procedure, you may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the breast area. The intensity and duration of the pain can vary depending on individual factors, such as your pain tolerance, the extent of the surgery, and the body’s healing process. It is common for discomfort to be more pronounced in the first few days after surgery and gradually decrease over time.

Finding the Right Surgeon

Each individual’s experience may vary, and consulting with a qualified oncoplastic breast surgeon, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan, Consultant Breast & General Surgeon, is crucial. She can provide you with personalised information and guidance specific to your case.

She’s a skilled oncoplastic breast surgeon who can evaluate your unique situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and guide you toward making an informed decision.

Remember, the ultimate goal of breast reduction surgery is to improve your well-being, boost your self-confidence, and enhance your overall quality of life. Book your appointment here.

Cancer in the Elderly & Young Women

July 20, 2022

Dr Radhika has a special interest and care in the management of these two groups of women above.Special considerations in the younger group (less than 45 yrs of age) range from fertility issues,aggressive tumour biology and possibility of having inherited cancer.Dr Radhika appreciates the difficulties faced by these ladies and coordinates the management under a multidisciplinary team including medical oncologist/geneticist ; radiation oncologist;IVF specialist ( gynaecologist ) and allied health specialists and support groups.

The elderly group on the other hand will usually have underlying chronic medical problems ,mobility issues to consider before initiating treatment.Hence their treatment regimes will often require modifications to standard regimes which aims to maintain their quality of life at the same time treating the cancer without compromising their overall health.