Skip to content

3-D Mammography in Washington, DC

Breast Care for Washington is the first and only breast cancer screening facility east of the Anacostia River to offer 3D mammography.

While digital mammography is still one of the most advanced technologies available today, it is only a 2-dimensional picture of the breast. The breast is a 3-dimensional object composed of different structures such as blood vessels, milk ducts, fat, and ligaments. All of these structures, which are located at different heights within the breast, can overlap and cause confusion when viewed as a 2-dimensional, flat image.

Breast Care for Washington is the first and only breast cancer screening facility east of the Anacostia River to offer 3D mammography. Our highly-trained technicians are dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive diagnosis regardless of your ability to pay. Following your exam our team will help ensure that you receive the best care available to you in Washington, DC. To schedule an appointment at Breast Care for Washington, contact our breast imaging center at (202) 465-7164 today!

What is 3D Mammography?

3D mammography (also called breast tomosynthesis) is a new technology in the fight against breast cancer that allows doctors to examine your breast one layer at a time. 3D mammography uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or “slices” –building what is essentially a 3D mammogram.

How Does 3D Mammography Work?

A good analogy for 3D mammography is like thinking of the pages in a book. If you look down at the cover you cannot see all of the pages – but when you open it up, you can go through the entire book page by page to see everything between the covers. 3D mammography is designed with the same concept in mind.
A 3D mammogram is very similar to a traditional mammogram. Just as with a digital mammogram, the technologist will position you, compress your breast under a paddle and take images from different angles.

What Happens During a 3D Mammography Exam?

During the 3D mammography part of the exam, the X-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple breast images in just seconds. There is no additional compression required with 3D mammography and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view.

Is 3D a Separate Exam or Part of My Usual Mammogram?

The 3D exam is a separate procedure that is performed at the same time as your regular mammogram.

How much radiation will I be exposed to?

It varies from person to person and is roughly equivalent to film/screen mammography. The amount of radiation is below government safety standards.

What if my doctor did not mention 3D Mammography to me?

3D is an optional service at this time and elected by the patient. Many physicians know about our new 3D technology and the feedback we have received has been very positive.

How Much Does 3D Mammography Cost & Will My Insurance Cover It?

Please call the office to discuss cost options. This is an eligible expense through your flexible spending account. Some insurance companies including Medicaid and Medicare do cover the cost of a 3D mammogram. However, many insurance companies do not cover the 3D portion of the mammogram. However, the 2D portion of the exam is billed to your insurance as usual.

Schedule Your 3-D Mammography in Washington, DC Today!

Breast Care for Washington is the first and only breast cancer screening facility east of the Anacostia River to offer 3D mammography. To schedule a diagnostic screening appointment at our breast care center in Washington, DC, call 202-465-7164 or contact us.

Ready to schedule your mammogram?

Request your appointment with us today by filling out our form below or call us at (202) 465-7164: