Breast MRI

A breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an advanced imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of breast tissue. Unlike mammograms or ultrasounds, this procedure doesn’t use radiation, and is therefore deemed a safer way to detect breast concerns.

A breast MRI is often used as a complementary tool alongside other screenings, particularly for people at high risk of breast cancer, those with dense breast tissue, or when further detail is needed after an abnormal mammogram or ultrasound. A breast MRI is also commonly used to check the extent of cancer after a diagnosis or to monitor implants for ruptures.

You will be asked to complete a safety questionnaire prior to the procedure, and you’ll then change into a gown and remove all jewellery, which will be locked away securely in a cupboard. 

During the scan, a contrast dye is usually injected into a vein (if required) to help highlight any abnormalities. This solution is safe; however, a blood test prior to the procedure is often performed to check your kidney function.

You will then be asked to lie on a padded table with two openings for the breasts, which helps the machine capture clear, precise images from multiple angles. A breast MRI scan is highly sensitive and can detect changes that other scans may miss, but it can also pick up benign (non-cancerous) findings, which may lead to additional testing.

The MRI technicians will give you earplugs to protect your ears from the knocking noise of the scanner and headphones to listen to music. At all times throughout the procedure, you will have communication with the MRI technicians.

The whole procedure takes under 40 minutes, and it is extremely important to lie still throughout and try to relax as best you can.

A breast MRI scan is looking for any abnormalities or changes in the breast tissue that could indicate cancer or other issues. Specifically, it looks for:

• Tumours or lumps, including those that may not be visible with a mammogram or ultrasound;
• The extent of cancer after a diagnosis (to see if it has spread within the breast or to nearby tissue);
• Abnormal blood flow patterns, as cancers often have increased blood supply that shows up with contrast dye;
• Issues in people with dense breast tissue, where mammograms might miss small tumours;
• Implant integrity, checking for ruptures or leaks;
• High-risk screening, for those with a strong family history, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 or BRCA2), or other risk factors;

In essence, a breast MRI provides a detailed, highly sensitive view of the breast to help detect, diagnose, or monitor breast health more accurately.

It’s important you inform our specialists of any implants, health problems, allergies or surgeries you have had, and if you are pregnant. Although the magnetic field isn’t harmful to patients, it can cause some medical devices to malfunction (most orthopaedic implants are safe). If you do experience anxiety or claustrophobia from time to time, please tell us so we can provide added support throughout the procedure.