19 April 2024
What to Expect at Your Breast Clinic Appointment
If you’ve noticed a particular breast symptom that hasn’t subsided or has grown worse, you may have visited the GP for a checkup. Upon a referral, it’s normal to feel anxious about your breast clinic appointment.
In this article, we’ll discuss all the factors of your appointment, including what to expect, duration, suitable clothing and more.
What to Expect at Your Breast Clinic Appointment:
While the majority of people referred do not have breast cancer, it’s still important to check to be sure. Also, the sooner cancer is diagnosed and treated, the less likely it is to spread.
To ease your nerves, here is what to expect at your breast clinic appointment:
- We will first discuss your breast concerns and what will happen during your appointment.
- You will then be asked to remove your top and bra before conducting the tests.
- If required, we will administer medication for the biopsy. If not, the tests will commence without medication:
Biopsy: a small piece of breast tissue will be removed and be inspected under a microscope. You will receive local anaesthesia to subdue the pain, leaving a slight pressure on your breasts instead.
Breast Examination: our lead surgeon or nurse will physically examine your breasts and the areas around them for lumps and bumps. This may feel slightly uncomfortable, but should not be painful.
Mammogram: this x-ray or ultrasound will generate an image of the inside of your breasts. This will check for cancer too small to see or feel. You may feel some discomfort depending on the size of your breasts and pressing level.
- Once the tests are finished, you can put your bra and top back on and relax.
- We will then discuss next steps and when you’ll get your results.
Depending on the type of symptom and referral, you may not require all three of these tests. There is no particular order in which the tests are conducted, but you may wish to contact your doctor for the specifics of your appointment.
How Long Will the Breast Clinic Appointment Take?
Depending on the tests, your appointment may take a few hours. While we try to make these tests as comfortable and quick as possible, we must ensure accuracy.
If you feel as though you can’t continue or have to leave, we can schedule a second appointment to finish the tests.
Should You Visit the Clinic Alone or with Someone?
It may be helpful to receive comfort from someone, but you can choose to visit our clinic alone if that makes you feel more comfortable. If you change your mind, one of our nurse practitioners may be available to distract you from the tests.
However, we recommend bringing a close friend or family member, particularly if they have experienced these tests before. They are welcome to wait in our reception room if you aren’t comfortable with them being in the clinic room.
What Should You Wear to Your Breast Clinic Appointment?
We recommend wearing comfortable and loose attire that’s easy to remove. For example, a flowy top and leggings.
It is your decision whether you wear a bra to your appointment, but you may choose to keep it off afterwards if your breasts feel sore.
Should You Drive After Your Breast Clinic Appointment?
If you receive medication for a biopsy, you won’t be able to drive for a few hours. We recommend having someone drive you back home instead of taking public transport as you may be drowsy due to the medication.
However, you should be fine to drive after a mammogram or a breast examination as these don’t require anaesthesia.
BOOK YOUR BREAST CLINIC APPOINTMENT AT SUFFOLK BREAST PRACTICE
If you find a lump or any other anomaly around your upper torso, book a consultation today. Our team has years of experience and is fully qualified in a range of breast concerns.
Our specialist Dr Hussein Tuffaha has achieved the following awards and accreditations:
- UK cosmetic surgery register
- iWantGreatCare certificate in 2022/2023
- Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Association of Breast Surgery
- And TopDoctors
Remember to check for signs of breast cancer and don’t ignore symptoms. If left untreated, they could grow worse and cause complications. Don’t hesitate to contact us today with any questions.
