FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Regular clinical breast exams and routine mammography are important tools in the early detection of breast cancer. Here are some frequently asked questions about the basics and advantages of breast imaging specific to our center.  Please feel free to call us to speak with a breast radiologist or mammography technologist about your breast health concerns.  

Call the Sonnenalp Breast Center hotline at 970-569-7417 Monday- Friday 8am-5pm.

Click on link below for more information.

• Does a mammogram hurt?
• Why do they have to compress the breast?
• What is the difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram?
• What is a breast ultrasound?
• Why should I have a mammogram?
• How do I prepare for a mammogram at the Sonnenalp Breast Diagnostic Imaging Center?
• What happens during a mammogram?
• At what age should I have a mammogram?
• How do I prepare for a biopsy at the Sonnenalp Breast Center?
• What is my care after my breast biopsy?
• My breast biopsy results are negative. What does that mean now?
• My breast biopsy results are positive or indeterminate. What is the next step?
• What else can I do?
• What if I cannot afford a mammogram?
• How do I have my films sent to another breast imaging facility?
• How do I have my prior breast imaging done at a prior facility sent to The Sonnenalp Breast Center? 

What is a mammogram?

Mammography is one of the most effective tools available to detect breast cancer.  Often breast cancers can be seen on a mammogram before any breast symptoms occur.  The American Cancer Society recommends women start annual screening mammography at the age 40.  If you have a strong family history a first degree relative such as your sister or mother it is recommended you start   screening mammography 10 years prior to their breast cancer diagnosis.  Mammography does not prevent breast cancer but t can save lives by detecting breast cancer at the earliest stage possible.
The Sonnenalp Breast Center has offered digital mammography since 2002.

Does a mammogram hurt?

While a mammogram is not intended to hurt, it may cause a minimal amount of discomfort for some women.  It is best to schedule your mammogram the second half of your cycle when your breasts are less sensitive.  Most women are fine with the compression.  The image exposure that is taken is short, about 15 seconds, so the breast is not compressed for a long period of time.  If your pain continues after your mammogram you can take Tylenol or Ibuprofen. 

Why do they have to compress the breast?

The breast tissue is best visualized when the tissue is spread out.  In order to spread the tissue out compression is needed.  The compression will hold your breast tissue still for the exposure, the more compression the better the mammogram images.  Please tell your mammography technologist your pain threshold.  If you can tolerate more compression, go for it! The likelihood you will have to return for additional imaging is decreased as the compression is increased.   Remember your mammography technologist compresses because she cares!

What is the difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram?

Screening mammography is a wellness test that is performed when there are no breast symptoms.  During a screening mammogram a mammography technologist will usually take two pictures of each breast (occasionally more)   to visualize all the breast tissue.  In patients with breast implants four views are taken of each breast.  A breast radiologist is typically not present to read routine breast imaging.  You can expect your appointment to be 20-30 minutes.

Diagnostic mammography is performed when there is a change in your screening mammogram or you have symptoms in your breast. Diagnostic mammographic images are different from those taken for a screening mammogram.  A breast radiologist is on site to read your examination and will review your results with you if needed.  Diagnostic mammography can lead to further breast imaging such as breast ultrasound, breast MRI or breast biopsy.  You can expect to be at the breast center for 1- 1 ½ hours for diagnostic mammography.

Breast changes include:
• Additional breast imaging after a screening mammogram, recommend by the breast radiologist when there is a questionable abnormality on screening exam.
• History of Breast Cancer
• Lump or thickening
• Swelling or changes in skin appearance
• Nipple inversion
• New or bloody nipple discharge
• Pain (only 15% of women with breast pain will require treatment)
• Any other symptoms

Most insurance companies will cover a portion or all the cost of a screening mammogram, however, not all diagnostic mammograms are covered by insurance.  Because each insurance plan varies it is recommended you call your insurance company to verify your benefits.  You may also call our insurance verification department 970-569-7666 or 970-569-7649. 

If you cannot afford a mammogram you may call the Eagle Care Clinic to see you are eligible for a free mammogram through The Komen Foundation or The Women’s Wellness Coalition at 970-569-7520.

What is a breast ultrasound?

Breast Ultrasound is a breast imaging exam that uses soundwaves to create a real time image of the breast.  The sonographer will place warm gel on the area to be scanned and use an ultrasound transducer (probe) to image the area of interest.  This test is not painful.  The breast radiologist will review your images and also may scan you again, and will then review your results with you. Breast Ultrasound is an imaging test that compliments mammography or other breast imaging, but not replace. 
 
Ultrasound can be offered for women who:
• Women or men who have a lump or thickening in their breast
• Women with nipple discharge or breast pain
• Women who have breast implants
• Women who are pregnant and should not be exposed to xray and have breast symptoms
• Women who have dense breasts (SonoCiné)

Can I have a breast ultrasound instead of a mammogram?

Breast ultrasound does not replace mammography and mammography does not produce the same type of imaging as breast ultrasound.  Both exams visualize the breast tissue utilizing different techniques, breast ultrasound uses soundwaves and produces a real time image and mammography uses x-rays and produces a  two dimensional image.  The tests compliment each other but do not replace one another.  Mammography is the only screening tool for breast cancer that is known to reduce the death rate from breast cancer. While breast ultrasound is very valuable breast imaging test, and can find cancers, it is not considered a screening or wellness examination and therefore most insurance companies will not cover the cost. 

Why should I have a mammogram?

Mammograms can save your life when a breast cancer is found early. A mammogram can show cancer that is too small for you to feel (Breast Self Examination) or your doctor to feel (Clinical breast examination). When breast cancer is found early, there are many more treatment options and a greater chance of a cure.

How do I prepare for a mammogram at the Sonnenalp Breast Diagnostic Imaging Center?

• Please do not wear any perfume, lotions or deodorants on the day of your examination.
• Please arrive at the breast center a few minutes prior to your scheduled breast imaging exam.
• Bring your prescription from your care provider along with a photo ID and your insurance card or mammogram voucher
• Please bring any prior breast imaging (mammograms, breast ultrasound or breast MRI) images along with the radiologist report.  If the prior facility has the images on disc please request your images in this format.  This is very important especially if you have significant breast health history.
• Wear comfortable 2 piece outfit as we will have you change from the waist up into a gown
• While we do not anticipate a wait please bring a book in case we are not running on time.
• Screening mammogram appointment should take about 20-30 minutes
• Diagnostic breast imaging appointments wait times vary from one to one and a half hours.  The breast radiologist has many patients to see and your understanding and patience is appreciated if you have to wait. 
• Not all breast imaging tests are covered by insurance.  Please feel free to call your insurance company or Vail Valley Medical Center’s insurance verification line at 970-569-7666 or 970-569-7649
• The Sonnenalp Breast Center does not provide babysitting services. 
• For the respect of other patients please do not use cell phones in waiting areas.
 Relax and enjoy the spa-like atmosphere.

What happens during a mammogram?

A mammogram is a simple test. You will be asking to change from the waist up. The female mammography technologist will place your breast between two x-ray panels. The panel will compress your breast between them in order to get the clearest picture possible. You may feel some discomfort but each image takes less than one minute. Try to schedule your exam when your breasts are not hurting, usually the first half of your cycle. You may want to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen before your appointment but please consult your physician prior to taking any medication.

At what age should I have a mammogram?

The American Cancer Society recommends women get a mammogram once a year, beginning at age 40. If you have a strong family history a first degree relative such as your sister or mother it is recommended you start your mammograms 10 years prior to their breast cancer diagnosis.  Talk with your healthcare provider if you have any questions on when mammography is appropriate for you.

How do I prepare for a biopsy at the Sonnenalp Breast Center?

If you have been recommended for a biopsy at our center it is important that you read the following information.

• Please do not take any aspirin or blood thinners 3 days prior to your biopsy.  If you are taking certain pain relievers, blood thinners, vitamin or herbal supplements please talk to your physician before you stop taking any medications.
*Pain relievers-Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Excedrin, Anacin, Nuprin, Naprosym, Advil, Buffin, Mediprin, Aleve, Lodine, Indocin, NSAID (Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
*blood thinners- Coumadin, persantine, heparin, Clopidrogril(plavix),propoxyphen     
*vitamin or herbal supplements- Vitamin E, Ginkgo Biloba, Feverfew, Ginger, Glucosamine, Chrondrotin, Diet Pills, Herbal Teas, Bromelain, Flaxseed, Horse Chestnut, Licorice, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Papain, St. John’s wart, Zinc and Kava-kava.

• Wear comfortable 2 piece clothing
• Bring a photo ID, an order from your care provider and your insurance card
• Bring any prior breast imaging exam along with reports.  Please ask for a CD from your prior facility if their images were performed digitally.
• If you feel the need for sedatives for anxiety, you will need to contact your healthcare provider to obtain the medicine.  Please do not take the sedative until you have signed the consent. If you take a sedative you must have someone to drive you home after the procedure
• Your procedure will be performed by a breast radiologist and  a mammography technologist that are specially trained in breast biopsy
• Your tissue will be sent to a Pathologist for review.  Your doctor will call you with the results.

What is my care after my breast biopsy?

Follow the below instructions after your biopsy:
• Use provided ice pain to relieve pain and swelling.  30 minutes on 30 minutes off.
• Your breast may be sore, take Tylenol for pain
• Do not do participate in strenuous activities for 24 hours
• Do not bathe or shower for 24 hours
• Your breast may bruise. The  bruise can  last for 3–6 months
• Watch for signs of infection.  Redness, fever or hot to the touch.  See your care provider if symptoms persist.
• Leave the steri strips on for 3-5 days.  You may remove the pressure dressing after 24 hours.
• Slight bleeding and oozing is normal.
• If bleeding occurs hold pressure for 10 minutes or until bleeding subsides.  If the bleeding does not stop see your care provider or go to the emergency room.
• You may get a hematoma or lump in the area of the biopsy.  This should resolve over time. 
• Your results will be available 2-3 days after your biopsy through your care provider

My breast biopsy results are negative.  What does that mean now?

If you results are negative or benign, please return to the Sonnenalp Breast Center for a 6 month follow up exam. A reminder when your follow up is due will be sent to you.

My breast biopsy results are positive or indeterminate.  What is the next step?

The Sonnenalp Breast Center and The Shaw Cancer Center are here for you.  This is a difficult and confusing time and we will do everything to help you and your loved ones understand your condition.

The Shaw Cancer Center has a Multidisciplinary approach for the best care possible.  The Multidisciplinary Breast Clinic Team meets every Tuesday morning to discuss the most appropriate care for you.  You will be given the opportunity to meet the team at your private appointment. Please call The Shaw Regional Cancer Center at 970-569-7429.

What else can I do?

Make sure that you get a mammogram every year if you are age 40 or older. Practice breast self exams (BSE) on a monthly schedule. Examining your breast is an important way to find breast cancer early. Make sure you see your physician to perform a clinical breast exam (CBE) every year.

What if I cannot afford a mammogram?

All women age 40 and older with Medicare can get a screening mammogram once a year. Most health insurance companies reimburse all or part of the cost of a screening mammogram. Your insurance company should provide more details. If you do not have insurance and need assistance, you may be a candidate for a free mammogram. For more information, call the Eagle Care Clinic at 970-569-7555.

How do I have my films sent to another breast imaging facility?

Please fill out the below form and fax to 970-569-7699 or email to SonnenalpBreastCenter@vvmc.com.  Please give us 2-3 business days to process your request.  All breast images are sent via Fed Ex and will include a disc and the breast radiologist’s report.

How do I have my prior breast imaging done at a prior facility sent to The Sonnenalp Breast Center?

You will have to sign a release from the prior facility or use our *form below and fax to that facility.  We recommend you have the facility send the films along with a disc with the radiologist report. If you cannot remember the prior facility please call our center so we can assist you in locating your prior images.  You may have to contact the doctor who ordered your prior mammogram.

Kindly consider our mailing verses physical address:
Fed Ex or UPS use physical address:
The Sonnenalp Breast Center
322 Beard Creek Road
Edwards, Colorado 81632
Or
United States Postal Service use mailing address:
Post Office Box 2559
Edwards, Colorado 81632