If you have dense breasts, a mammogram may not give you the full picture. Dense tissue can make cancer harder to see, leaving many women more at risk for late detection and wondering if there is a better way to get a clear look.
Fast Breast MRI is a better option. MH Imaging now offers this breast cancer screening at our Kenosha, Milwaukee, and Madison locations. Learn more about this procedure, how it works, and how to know if it might be right for you.
What Is a Fast Breast MRI?
A Fast Breast MRI is a shorter version of a traditional breast MRI. The scan takes about 10-15 minutes. A traditional breast MRI takes about 60-75 minutes.
Like any MRI, it uses a magnet and radio waves to take detailed pictures. There is no radiation.
Before the scan, your MRI Technologist will place a small IV in your arm for contrast dye. The dye helps areas of concern stand out in the images. This makes it easier for our radiologists to spot cancer early, when it is often easier to treat.
You may also hear it called an abbreviated breast MRI. It is the same thing.
Why Dense Breast Tissue Matters
Breasts are made of fatty tissue and denser tissue. On a mammogram, dense tissue shows up white. Cancer also shows up white. That can make the two hard to tell apart.
An MRI looks at the breast in a different way. The contrast dye highlights areas with more blood flow, which can be a sign of cancer. This can help find cancers that a mammogram might miss in dense tissue.
Your mammogram results may tell you if you have dense breasts. If you are not sure, ask your doctor.
How Fast Breast MRI Compares to a Traditional Breast MRI
| Fast Breast MRI | Traditional Breast MRI | |
| Time in the scanner | About 10-15 minutes | About 60-75 minutes |
| Contrast dye | Yes | Yes |
| Radiation | None | None |
| Out-of-pocket cost | $375 | Dependent on insurance plan. Cash price is $725 |
Less time in the scanner means less time lying still. Many people find that more comfortable, especially if tight spaces make them nervous.
It Does Not Replace Your Yearly Mammogram
This part is important. Fast Breast MRI is used in addition to your yearly mammogram, not instead of it. Mammograms can show things an MRI may not, like tiny calcium deposits that can be an early sign of cancer. The two tests work best together.
Keep your yearly mammogram on the calendar. Fast Breast MRI adds another layer of screening by helping detect concerns that may not appear on a mammogram alone.
Who Might Consider a Fast Breast MRI
It may be worth asking your doctor about a Fast Breast MRI in these cases.
- Your mammogram report says you have dense breast tissue
- You want more screening than a mammogram alone can give
- Your doctor has suggested extra screening
Before your visit, let us know if you are pregnant, have kidney problems, or have any metal in your body, such as a pacemaker or implant. Our team will go over a short safety checklist with you.
What to Expect During Your Scan
Here is how a typical visit goes.
- You change into a gown.
- A member of our team places a small IV in your arm for the contrast dye.
- You lie face down on a padded table. Your breasts rest in cushioned openings.
- The table slides into the scanner. The machine makes loud knocking sounds, so we give you earplugs or headphones.
- You stay still for about 15 minutes while the images are taken.
Once the scan is done, the IV is removed, and you can go back to your normal day.
After your visit, your results go to your referring doctor, or straight to you if you referred yourself.
Common Questions About Fast Breast MRI
How long does a Fast Breast MRI take?
The scan itself takes about 10-15 minutes.
Can a Fast Breast MRI replace my mammogram?
No. It is meant to be used along with your yearly mammogram.
Does a Fast Breast MRI hurt?
The scan does not hurt. You may feel a quick pinch when the IV goes in.
Where can I get a Fast Breast MRI?
MH Imaging offers Fast Breast MRI at our Kenosha, Milwaukee, and Madison locations.
Fast Breast MRI Cost at MH Imaging
The out-of-pocket cost for a Fast Breast MRI at MH Imaging is $375. That is less than a traditional breast MRI.
If you have questions about cost or payment before your visit, give us a call. We are happy to walk you through it. Contact our team to discuss financial support.
Schedule a Fast Breast MRI Today
If you have dense breasts or want to learn more about your screening options, talk with your doctor or call our office. We can answer your questions and help you schedule a Fast Breast MRI at the location closest to you. Same-day results are available, eliminating the stress that comes with screening for breast cancer. Learn more about why Wisconsin women trust MH Imaging and explore our radiology clinics near you.
