Day One

Through Self-Detection, You Notice a Lump.

If you detect a suspicious lump through self-examination, or experience any breast cancer symptoms, you should call your physician immediately. In particular, post-menopausal women should come in as soon as possible as they are high-risk candidates for breast cancer. Our Women's Imaging staff will work with your personal physician to schedule breast examinations within 24 hours of a self-detection.

We respect your individuality and understand that it is important to feel confident and comfortable with your outward appearance. Our goal is to help you minimize and manage any changes in your appearance that result from breast cancer treatment.

Day Two

Follow Your Doctor's Orders.

After an examination by your physician, you should follow their instructions for additional diagnostic procedures. Some physicians may recommend a mammogram, lump analysis or ultrasound; others may wish to perform a stereotactic biopsy, a non-surgical method of diagnosis.

Day Three

Tests are Performed

If the diagnostic plan called for a mammogram, the results will be provided back to you and your physician by the next day. If further diagnostics are indicated, you will be scheduled for additional tests such as a biopsy of the suspicious lump. The biopsy may be performed by ultrasound, stereotactic procedure or surgery.

Day Four

The Sample is Diagnosed

Once the biopsy has been completed, the sample is then rushed to the pathology lab within the hospital where our physician will determine the nature of the breast lump within 24 hours.

Day Five

Post-Biopsy

Within 24 hours of the biopsy diagnosis the Pathology Department at Lexington Medical Center will send a report with the test results as to whether the sample is benign or malignant to your physician and Women's Imaging Center. If necessary, treatment options will be discussed with you by your physician or the breast cancer nurse navigator.