Does radiology perform breast ultrasound?

A trained ultrasound professional applies gel to the skin and moves a small probe over the breast and nearby areas. Sound waves create images of the tissues in real time, without ionising radiation. The scan may focus on a lump, pain, nipple change, or an area seen on another examination. The person performing the scan may take additional views, and a radiologist or another qualified clinician reviews the images and reports the findings.

Breast ultrasound usually needs little preparation. Wear a two-piece outfit for easier access and bring details of the area you have noticed, including when it began and whether it changes with your menstrual cycle. Tell the service about prior breast imaging, surgery, or biopsy. If you have a referral, check whether the request is for a particular side or area so the team can examine it accurately.

Arrange medical assessment for a new lump, persistent focal pain, nipple discharge, nipple inversion, or a change in breast skin. An ultrasound finding alone does not determine the cause, so follow the recommended review or further testing. Seek urgent care for severe infection symptoms such as rapidly spreading redness with fever, or for sudden serious illness.

Ask what area will be scanned, whether you also need mammography or another test, when the report will be available, and who will explain the result and next step.