Breast specialists in Greater Manchester, New Hampshire
Good breast health is essential to your overall well-being.
At Catholic Medical Center, we give you access to critical, preventive breast health services, including imaging exams. We also offer breast cancer surgery, when needed. Throughout it all, our compassionate team is here for you, providing the high-quality care you deserve.
Breast care services we provide
Breast cancer, when diagnosed in its earliest stages, can be very curable. That’s why early detection with screening mammography is so important. Our sophisticated breast imaging equipment and techniques can help reduce callbacks, find abnormalities early and reduce the number of follow-up tests for suspicious findings — even in dense breasts, which are the most difficult to screen. Most of our advanced breast screening services are conveniently located at our Breast Care Center. Here, your care team includes our fellowship-trained breast surgeon, who specializes in breast conservation, nipple-sparing mastectomy and oncoplastic surgery.
Breast health diagnostics
We recommend discussing risk factors with your doctor and developing a screening plan that is right for you. Early detection of breast cancer can be life-changing, and mammograms often spot tumors before you can see or feel them yourself. Our technologists are equipped to perform a variety of imaging procedures, tailored to your unique condition.
Automated breast ultrasound system (ABUS)
This supplemental screening tool is sometimes used alongside a screening mammogram, especially for women with dense breast tissue. Detecting cancer through dense breast tissue is challenging, and an ABUS is able to use sound waves to view your entire breast.
Breast biopsy
We can perform stereotactic and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies, as well as fine needle and cyst aspirations. A stereotactic biopsy uses a computer-guided imaging system to remove a sample of breast tissue. Stereo images, which encompass images of the same area from different angles, allow us to target the precise area we need to biopsy. Your medical team will consult with each other to ensure you get the right type of biopsy for your condition.
Genetic testing
Family history can play a substantial role in the likelihood of someone developing breast cancer. Using breast cancer 1 (BRCA 1) and breast cancer 2 (BRCA 2) gene testing, we can determine your potential likelihood and paint a clearer picture of what your long-term health might look like.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
We may order a breast MRI to get detailed images of breast tissue if you have a known cancer, are high risk or have suspicion of cancer. During this test, you lie face down on a table that prevents your breasts from getting compressed. The MRI machine then uses magnets, instead of radiation, to scan and create a picture of the soft tissue in your breast.
Mammograms
Mammograms are essential diagnostic tools that physicians use to examine whether any potential signs of breast cancer may be present. As breast cancer screenings are one of the most important ways you can maintain optimal breast health, you should start routine, annual mammograms at age 40. If you are at an increased risk for developing breast cancer, including having dense breasts, you may need to start screening prior to age 40. In this instance, you also may need additional types of imaging. Depending on your current level of breast health, there are several types of mammograms you could possibly receive.
3D screening mammogram
A screening mammography, also called a tomosynthesis, is a routine mammogram done on an annual basis. We are able to perform this procedure using enhanced 3D mammography equipment. The image clarity this technology provides allows us to detect and diagnose breast cancer in its earliest stages, as well as reduce the number of follow-up tests for suspicious findings, even if you have dense breasts. Using advanced and state-of-the-art technology, we'll provide you with faster scans, less radiation and greater comfort through our FDA-approved screening options.
3D mammography takes both 2D and 3D images, and can be used for stereotactic 3D biopsies, as well as contrast-enhanced mammograms. Above all, it gives us a better view of breast tissue, while using far less radiation. Following the exam, a board-certified radiologist reviews the images and compares them to any previously taken images, in order to look for potential areas of concern.
Contrast-enhanced mammogram
We perform a contrast-enhanced mammogram to get a clearer view of a breast nodule or lesion detected by a standard mammogram. An injected contrast dye causes cancerous cells to "light up" on the mammogram images.
Digital diagnostic mammography
A diagnostic mammogram usually involves special pictures of your breasts to examine a lump or something seen on a screening mammogram. The radiologist reviews your study before you leave and provides you with same-day results. Breast ultrasounds may also be performed with a diagnostic mammogram.
Breast cancer care
Our accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers ensures you have comprehensive care close to home. We are also proud to be recognized by the American College of Radiology (ACR) as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence (BICOE). The ACR recognizes the dedication of BICOE recipients to improving women’s health through participation in rigorous quality assurance programs. Additionally, the following breast imaging services: mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy and breast ultrasound are ACR accredited.
As part of our breast cancer services, we offer imaging tests for the early detection and management of breast cancer, including:
- Breast ultrasound
- Mammography
- Stereotactic breast biopsy
We also offer a range of treatments and support options to help meet all your needs along your cancer journey.
Breast cancer surgery
We pride ourselves in offering an advanced approach to removing breast cancer. Our procedures allow the surgeon to remove the cancerous tissue while reducing visible scarring or "hiding" the scar. We have trained surgeons for breast cancer surgery and breast reconstruction.
Free breast cancer screenings
The New Hampshire Breast and Cervical Cancer Program is administered by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). It enables women in New Hampshire who lack access to essential, basic, preventive care to get free breast care screenings.
Women between the ages of 21 of 64 who need help paying for screening or diagnostic testing are typically eligible. Cervical cancer screenings are mainly offered for women who have never had a Papanicolaou test (Pap smear), or have not had one in more than five years. To qualify for screenings through the program, you must meet certain requirements, including:
- Earn income that is less than 250% of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Lack health insurance, or have insurance coverage that does not pay for screening or diagnostic tests
- Live in New Hampshire or certain bordering Maine counties
Depending on your needs, you could be eligible for a clinical breast exam with a mammogram and also a pelvic exam with a Pap smear.
To determine if you qualify for a free cancer screening and to register for an appointment, call us today at (603) 663-8726.
Alternatively, for information on healthcare sites throughout New Hampshire, you can call (800) 852-3345, ext. 4931.
FAQs about breast health screenings
What happens at an appointment with a breast health specialist?
Depending on what you need, you may receive a pelvic exam, a Pap smear, a breast exam or a mammogram.
Who performs any necessary exams?
All exams and tests are done by qualified medical staff. Many of the screening sites have female doctors and nurse practitioners who perform the exams.
I have a doctor that I see, but I have never had a Pap smear or mammogram. Can I still get these services for free?
Yes, as long as you meet the program requirements. When you go to your screening appointment, let the staff know who your regular doctor is, and we will get your records sent to our office.
What if I don't have health insurance? Can I still get breast health screenings?
You might be eligible for free screenings. Call us at (603) 663-8726 to determine if you qualify.
What if there are concerning findings on my screening and I have no insurance to pay for treatment?
Our team will work with you to provide the services you need, and in most cases, Medicaid will cover the cost. Women with no health insurance, who are found to have breast or cervical cancer through the program, typically get enrolled in Medicaid.
How do I dress for my mammogram, ultrasound or biopsy?
It is best to wear a two-piece outfit, because you will need to change out of your clothes from the waist up. You should also avoid wearing deodorant, lotion or powder around your breasts or under your arms on the day of the procedure.
How do I dress for my dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan?
Also known as bone density scans, you should dress lightly for DEXA scans. Try to avoid clothes that have metal (zippers, snaps, grommets) around your waist or hips. If your clothing interferes with the test, we will have you change for the exam.
When and how will I get my test results?
Someone from our office will likely share the results with you via phone. We will also mail a letter to you if you received a mammogram or breast ultrasound.
I need to bring my film to another doctor. How do I get them?
To request the films, please call our film library department at (603) 663-6449. We ask that you give us 24-hour notice, if possible. Make sure you bring a valid form of identification with you when you pick up your film. If you are sending someone else in your place, make sure they bring written permission from you to pick them up.
Can I get an ultrasound instead of a mammogram?
An ultrasound is a great tool, but it is not a replacement for a mammogram. Ultrasounds cannot detect some of the symptoms of early stage breast cancer that a mammogram can. We generally use an ultrasound to evaluate a problem, lump or pain associated with findings on a mammogram. Our team may also do an ultrasound as a first step for women under 30 years old who have a potentially concerning issue.