Skip the Wait, Prioritize Your Breast Health

When it comes to breast health, time matters. Waiting weeks for a Breast MRI scan can add unnecessary stress and delay important care decisions. That’s why we offer expedited scheduling and fast, accurate results, so you can get the answers you need—sooner, not later. With advanced imaging technology and dedicated breast specialists, we prioritize your peace of mind and timely care.

What is a Breast MRI?

A Breast MRI is a highly advanced diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer—instead of X-rays—to create detailed images of breast tissue. This non-invasive exam provides critical insights that can help detect, evaluate, and monitor breast disease, especially when used alongside mammography.

Breast MRI is the most sensitive imaging tool available for detecting invasive breast cancer. It is especially useful for:

• Identifying the size and extent of tumors before surgery
• Screening high-risk patients with genetic predispositions or a strong family history
• Diagnosing breast implant rupture
• Staging breast cancer and guiding treatment planning
• Monitoring post-surgical and post-radiation changes

Who Should Consider a Breast MRI?

The American Cancer Society recommends annual Breast MRI scans for women at higher risk, including those who:

• Have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
• Have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with a BRCA mutation and have not been tested themselves
• Have a 20–25% or greater lifetime risk based on family history
• Had radiation therapy to the chest between ages 10 and 30
• Have a genetic condition like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome

Women at moderate risk (15–20% lifetime risk) should talk to their doctor about adding MRI scans to their annual mammogram. This includes those who:

• Have a 15–20% lifetime risk based on family history
• Have a personal history of breast cancer, DCIS, LCIS, ADH, or ALH
• Have extremely dense or unevenly dense breast tissue on mammograms

What to Expect on Exam Day

Appointment Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour

• Schedule your exam 7–10 days after the start of your menstrual cycle for the most accurate results.
  If you experience claustrophobia or anxiety, ask your doctor about a mild sedative (but wait to take it until after signing paperwork).
  Unlike a 3D mammogram, a Breast MRI does not involve breast compression, so the exam is typically comfortable.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Check-In and Preparation – You'll complete a brief medical history form.
2. Private Dressing Area – You’ll change into a gown and remove all metal items (jewelry, piercings) to avoid interference with the MRI.
3. Positioning for the Scan – A female technologist will position you face-down on the MRI table with your arms above your head. You’ll enter the machine headfirst.
4. Contrast Injection (if needed) – Most patients receive gadolinium contrast through a small IV in the arm or hand to enhance image clarity. This is essential for detecting breast cancer but may not be required for evaluating silicone implants.
5. The Scan – You'll need to lie still, breathe normally, and relax. The scan itself lasts 30–45 minutes.

After Your Breast MRI

• No downtime – You can resume normal activities immediately.
  Bring any prior breast imaging (mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs) for comparison, especially if done at another facility.

MRI Safety Precautions

If you have any of the following conditions, please call 913.469.8998 before your appointment, as they may be incompatible with an MRI:

• Cardiac pacemaker
• Artificial heart valve
• Aneurysm clips
• Metallic eye or ear implants
• Electronically, magnetically, or mechanically activated metal implants
• Copper IUD (Copper 7)
• Shrapnel or retained bullets
• Pregnancy
• Weight over 350 lbs.
• Severe claustrophobia
• Metal fragments in the eye

Schedule Your Breast MRI

For questions or to book an appointment at one of our MRI outpatient medical centers, call 913.469.8998.