Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
X-Ray
A single-breast, or S/B, mammogram X-rays only one breast instead of both. Doctors order this narrower version for a specific reason tied to that one side — most often to follow up a finding already flagged on an earlier scan, or because there's only one breast left to image, as after a mastectomy on the other side. Guidelines followed by cancer specialists specifically advise against imaging a mastectomy site itself once the breast tissue is removed, so this scan focuses only on the remaining, intact breast. It is not the standard scan for routine screening, where both breasts are imaged together for comparison.
This scan X-rays one breast only, using the same compression and angled views as a full mammogram. Doctors use it to track a specific area already identified on an earlier scan, or to screen the one remaining breast after a mastectomy.
A single-breast mammogram exists for situations where imaging both sides doesn't apply. It uses the same technique as a standard mammogram — compression and two angled X-ray views — but only on the breast that needs it.
The clearest case is after a mastectomy on one side. Surveillance guidance summarised in radiology literature recommends yearly mammography of the remaining, intact breast, while specifically advising against imaging the mastectomy side itself, since there's little breast tissue left to scan there. A single-breast mammogram can also be used to follow up a specific area flagged on a previous scan, without repeating imaging of a side that was already clear.
If your doctor has ordered this instead of a bilateral scan, it's usually because your case is already being tracked, with a known history on one side, rather than a screening scan for a first look. Ask your doctor to confirm which breast is being imaged and why, so you understand what the result is checking for.
This is usually done to follow up a specific finding on one side, or because you've had a mastectomy on the other side and there's no breast tissue left there to image.
No, routine screening normally images both breasts together so they can be compared. A single-breast mammogram is used for a specific, targeted reason on one side.
Generally, imaging of the mastectomy site itself is not recommended once the breast tissue is removed, since there's little tissue left to scan. Your doctor will confirm what's appropriate for your specific surgery.
A bilateral mammogram images both breasts in the same visit for comparison and is the standard routine screening scan. A single-breast mammogram images only one side for a specific, targeted reason.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
Since only one breast is imaged instead of two, the total radiation for the visit is lower than a full bilateral mammogram, though the dose per image is the same low level.
Yes, for surveillance after a mastectomy, yearly mammography of the remaining breast is a commonly followed pattern. Your doctor will set the exact schedule based on your history.
Tell your doctor and the centre if you're pregnant or think you might be. Routine mammography is generally avoided during pregnancy, and your doctor will advise on timing and any precautions.