Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

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Breast MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast is an imaging test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to form pictures of the inside of the breast. It also creates images of the tissues that surround the breast. Breast MRI is used to check for problems, such as a leaking breast implant or a suspicious lump or mass. It can also be used to help determine if breast cancer is present and diagnose it. The test takes 30-60 minutes.

Before Your Test

During a breast MRI, you lie face down on a platform that slides into a tubelike machine called a scanner.

Breast MRI uses strong magnets, so you'll be asked to remove your watch, jewelry, and all other metal objects.
You may be asked to remove your makeup, which may contain some metal.

The magnet used in breast MRI can cause metal objects in your body to move. You may be asked if you:

Have had stereotactic breast biopsy or previous surgery.
Have a pacemaker.
Have an artificial body part (prosthesis).
Have metal rods, screws, plates, or splinters in your body.
Wear a medicated adhesive patch.
Have tattoos.

Your technologist will also ask you whether:

You're pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
You're claustrophobic (afraid of confined spaces).

During Your Test

You may be asked to wear a hospital gown.
You may be injected with contrast (a special dye that makes the MRI image sharp).
You'll lie on a platform that slides into a tubelike machine called a scanner. You'll be on your stomach with your breasts placed through openings in the platform.
Remain as still as you can while the camera takes the pictures. This will ensure the best images.

After Your Test

You can get back to normal activities right away.
If you were given contrast, it will pass naturally through your body within a day.
Drink lots of water so that the dye passes quickly out of your body.

Getting Your Results

Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up appointment or over the phone.

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Contact us at Northwest Oncology & Hematology. You can reach us at 847.870.4100 (Rolling Meadows office), 847.437.3312 (Elk Grove Village office), 847.885.4100 (Hoffman Estates office), 847.842.0180 (Barrington office) and 847.577.1023 (Elgin office). For your convenience, you can also use our New Patient Appointment online form to schedule your consultation with us.

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If at any time you are unable to reach a physician after hours using our office phone numbers, contact the answering service directly at (847) 758-2846.