At Mount Sinai, we use the latest and most accurate technologies to manage breast health and detect breast cancer. We offer mammography services at multiple locations for patient convenience.

Types of Breast Imaging Exams

Mammograms at most Mount Sinai locations are done with 3D mammography, a low-dose digital technology that takes many detailed pictures of the breast.

• A screening mammogram is an annual well-care exam that is done very quickly. We recommend yearly screening beginning at 40 years of age.
• A diagnostic mammogram is done when a patient has symptoms such as a lump, rash, redness, or discharge from the nipple. It may also be done if a question is raised from a screening mammogram. Different specialized images are usually taken for a diagnostic mammogram.

High resolution breast ultrasound can be helpful for women with dense breast tissue, an abnormal mammogram, or symptoms. Your referring doctor or the radiologist who reads your mammogram will determine if ultrasound would be helpful in conjunction with your mammogram.

Artificial Intelligence and Mammograms

At Mount Sinai, we use the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in finding breast cancers, especially small cancers. Your radiologist still reads your mammogram—there is no substitute for the radiologist’s expertise. AI reads the mammogram at the same time and highlights areas that need extra attention. As of March 2025, we have done more than 100,000 AI-assisted mammograms.

Getting Your Results

A radiologist who specializes in interpreting breast images will analyze the mammogram images for abnormal findings. After the initial mammogram, the radiologist may request additional images if needed—this happens quite often and is normal. If you have had previous mammograms, the radiologist will compare the images for changes.

If the radiologist finds anything suspicious, a biopsy may be recommended. If a biopsy shows abnormal results, you will be referred for consultation with a breast surgeon who will help determine appropriate next steps. A suspicious finding does not mean you have breast cancer. It means that further examination is needed to know what is being seen in your breast.

Scheduling Your Mammogram

A prescription from your referring physician, such as your primary care physician or your OB/GYN, is typically required.

If your referring physician is a Mount Sinai provider, their office will send the referral through our electronic medical record system. You can call 212-241-8333* to schedule a breast imaging appointment at a location convenient for you.

If your referring physician is not a Mount Sinai provider, their office can fax the prescription to us (see fax numbers by location below). You can call 212-241-8333* to schedule a breast imaging appointment at a location convenient for you, and please mention that your referring physician is faxing the prescription. We suggest that you also bring the printed prescription with you.

It is helpful for our radiologist to review any prior mammograms or imaging tests so the results can be compared. When you make your appointment, please ask about the preferred way to provide prior mammograms and imaging tests.

*For appointments at Mount Sinai Brooklyn, Mount Sinai Doctors-Brooklyn Heights, and Mount Sinai Doctors-Long Island, please call the site-specific phone number under Mammography Locations.