A mammogram is a special type of X-ray used to look inside the breasts. This test is really important because it can find early signs of breast cancer, sometimes before you can feel a lump or notice any other symptoms. The X-ray pictures can show tiny spots or changes in breast tissue that doctors need to check more closely.
There's no downtime with a mammogram—you can get right back to your day as soon as it's done.
Since there's no recovery time needed, you don't have to stay in Turkey longer than your appointment, unless you want to enjoy some sightseeing!
You can go back to work the same day as your mammogram.
You can exercise on the same day too. There are no restrictions after having a mammogram.
Typically, you'll hear back about your mammogram results within a few weeks.
There's nothing specific you need to avoid after a mammogram.
Your eating habits don't need to change after a mammogram.
At your first appointment, the doctor will talk to you about your health history and any breast symptoms you might be having. They'll explain what will happen during the mammogram and answer any questions you might have.
Before your mammogram, it’s best not to wear deodorants or lotions on your chest because they can show up on the X-ray. Dress comfortably, since you’ll need to undress from the waist up for the test.
When you have a mammogram, you'll stand in front of a special machine. A technician will place your breast on a clear plate, and another plate will press down from above to flatten the breast. This might feel a bit uncomfortable, but it helps get a clear picture.
After your mammogram, the images will be looked at by a radiologist who specializes in reading these types of pictures. You'll usually get a follow-up call or appointment to discuss the results and any next steps within a few weeks.
Mammograms are great at spotting breast cancer early. Research shows they can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by up to 30%. Most women feel really positive about having mammograms because they help catch problems early when they’re easier to treat.
Procedure | Mammogram |
Duration | About 10-15 minutes for the X-ray, total appointment around an hour |
Stay | No extended stay necessary; patients can leave immediately after the procedure |
Cost | €150 - €300 |
Anesthesia | None required |
Recovery | No downtime, return to daily activities immediately |
Final Results | Results are typically available within a few weeks |
Side Effects | Discomfort or pressure during the procedure, anxiety while waiting for results |
Risks | Very low risk; includes minor radiation exposure and the rare chance of a missed diagnosis |
Success Rate | High effectiveness in early detection of breast cancer, can reduce mortality by up to 30% |
Exercise | No restrictions, can resume immediately |
Back To Work | Can return to work the same day |
Scars | None |
Pain | Minor discomfort during breast compression |
Related Procedures | May include follow-up tests like ultrasounds or biopsies if abnormalities are detected |
It’s mainly used to check for breast cancer signs before you can even feel them.
If you’re over 40, it’s a good idea to have one every one to two years, but your doctor will tell you what’s best for you.
It might be a bit uncomfortable for a moment because the machine presses your breast to spread out the tissue for a better image.
It's better not to wear any deodorant, powder, or perfume because they can interfere with the X-ray images.
If there’s something unusual, you’ll probably need more tests like an ultrasound or a biopsy to find out more.
The actual X-ray takes only about 10 to 15 minutes, although your total appointment will be around an hour.
The risks are very low, but include a small exposure to radiation and the rare chance that the mammogram might not catch a cancer.
Yes, if a doctor thinks a man might have breast cancer, he can also have a mammogram.
Avoid lotions and perfumes, wear two-piece clothing, and try to book your test when your breasts aren't tender.