Diagnostic Workup
Our Approach to Diagnosis
Facing breast tests or investigations can feel overwhelming, and waiting for results often adds to the uncertainty.
At Breast & Wellness, our goal is to make this process as smooth, clear, and reassuring as possible.
We provide a comprehensive, same-day diagnostic pathway, where consultations, imaging, and biopsies are coordinated efficiently — often on the same day — in partnership with dedicated on-site breast radiologists.
This approach saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you receive answers and support without unnecessary waiting.
Our Diagnostic Pathway
The diagnosis of breast cancer involves a series of precise steps to determine the presence, type, and stage of disease.
Each test provides valuable information, guiding your care team toward the most effective treatment plan for your individual situation.
1. Clinical Breast Examination
Your specialist begins with a careful physical examination of the breast and underarm area.
This allows us to assess areas of concern, compare findings with previous imaging, and plan further tests.
The examination is gentle and focused on understanding your specific presentation.
2. Imaging Studies
Imaging helps us visualise the internal structure of the breast and detect abnormalities that may not be felt on examination.
Mammogram
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that identifies changes such as calcifications or lumps within the breast.
At Breast & Wellness, we partner with experienced breast radiologists and provide same-day 3D mammography, where possible, to minimise waiting time.
Some patients find the compression mildly uncomfortable, but it lasts only a few seconds and ensures clear, accurate images.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of breast tissue.
It’s painless, quick, and especially useful for distinguishing between solid lumps and fluid-filled cysts.
We perform targeted ultrasounds during your consultation for real-time correlation with physical findings, ensuring surgical precision and peace of mind.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
A breast MRI provides highly detailed images using magnets and contrast dye.
It’s particularly valuable for assessing the extent of disease, evaluating dense breast tissue, and clarifying complex or high-risk cases.
While not always required, MRI gives exceptional accuracy when more information is needed before treatment planning.
3. Biopsy and Pathology
If imaging identifies an area that requires further evaluation, a biopsy is performed to collect a small tissue sample for microscopic analysis.
Biopsies are usually done under local anaesthetic and take only a few minutes.
Types of biopsy include:
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Fine-Needle Aspiration: A thin needle collects cells or fluid for quick analysis.
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Core Needle Biopsy: A larger needle removes a small tissue sample for detailed testing — usually guided by ultrasound or mammogram.
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Stereotactic Biopsy: Guided by mammography to target tiny or hard-to-reach areas, such as microcalcifications.
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Surgical Biopsy: Removes part or all of a suspicious area when other methods are inconclusive.
Our pathology partners provide rapid turnaround of biopsy results, allowing your care plan to progress without unnecessary delay.
Same-Day Coordination
We understand how stressful waiting can be.
That’s why our aim is to perform consultation, imaging, and biopsy — all within the same day, when clinically appropriate.
Working alongside dedicated on-site breast radiologists, our team streamlines every step to ensure results are available as quickly as possible.
This integrated model not only saves time but also helps reduce anxiety, providing clarity and reassurance when it’s needed most.
Key Points
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Comprehensive diagnostic workup coordinated by breast specialists.
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Same-day imaging and biopsy where possible to minimise stress.
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On-site collaboration with dedicated breast radiologists.
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Clear explanations and personalised next steps after each test.