Breast Imaging

1. MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
2. Mammogram
3. Ultrasound
4. The level of care is excellent.
5. MRI
6. Contact Us Today
7. ABOUT US & EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
8. CONTACT US

Breast imaging can be separated into two main categories, including screening imaging and diagnostic imaging. Screening imaging is done to seek out evidence of breast cancer in women who are not showing any symptoms. Diagnostic imaging is done to better evaluate a specific issue that has been found in breast tissue such as a lump, areas of pain, nipple discharge, or an abnormality seen on screening imaging.

At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we do perform diagnostic breast ultrasounds in conjunction with clinical exams. Our preferred imaging partners include Radiology Ltd and TMC Women’s Imaging.

Board-Certified Surgeon

MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS

Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.

More About Dr. Ley

Mammogram

Mammography, also called a mammogram, was the first test developed for breast cancer screening and is considered the “gold standard” of breast imaging for detecting breast cancer. This form of imaging uses X-ray to view the tissue of the breasts.

During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissues. A low dose of X-rays capture black and white images which are displayed digitally and examined by a radiologist for signs of cancer.

Traditional mammograms create 2D images of the breast. However, a newer type of mammogram known as breast tomosynthesis can create 3D images of the breast in addition to 2D imaging for improved breast cancer screening. 3D imaging is now the standard.

Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound is often performed along with a mammogram to further evaluate nodules and densities. It can also be effective for patients who have a breast lump, localized breast pain, nipple discharge, or dense breast tissue. While ultrasound is not a replacement for a mammogram, they can be used together to work up a breast issue.

“The level of care is excellent.”

Dr. Ley helped me through the first round of BC in 2017 with kindness, compassion and expertise! I had absolutely no reservations when trusting her for a 2021 and now for the 3rd time I can’t imagine going through this without her. She is a lion when it comes to fighting for you, calls you personally even though she has to be the busiest Dr. and mother I know. She’s considerate of your needs, fears and concerns and never lets you go it alone. Can’t say enough good!

I have no words to express my gratitude for Dr. Ley! I was diagnosed Feb. 2020 and Dr. Ley besides being the best in her field and doing an amazing job on my double mastectomy she was even able to save my nipples. She is also a remarkable human being, patient, kind very clear in explaining everything and making you feel heard and safe in her hands. I 100% recommend her and her very helpful, kind and amazing team! If you have recently been diagnosed this is the team you want to have your back!

Dr. Ley is extremely good at explaining your breast cancer, treatment options, and everything she is going to do. She is a masterful surgeon and uses plastic techniques to close incisions, leaving minimal scarring. In addition, she is warm, pleasant, and a lovely person. I am so happy that I found her based on a friend’s recommendation. I can’t say enough about her and the practice’s excellent care.

MRI

Breast MRI may be beneficial for women at high risk for breast cancer or those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. As a sensitive test, it can detect small changes in the breast, but cannot determine which areas are cancerous and which are not. If an abnormality is identified, MRI guided biopsy may be indicated. MRI is not recommended as a substitution for mammography, as it may miss some early cancers that a mammogram would detect. For high-risk patients, we recommend MRI and mammography.

Contact Us Today

While no test is 100% accurate, when used together these breast imaging options can provide excellent images of breast tissues. If you have any concerns regarding your breast imaging exam or breast cancer risk factors, please let us know. Contact Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson, AZ today.

ABOUT US

More About Us

OUR BLOG

Read Our Blog