Breast Assessment Clinic

If you have been invited back to the Breast Assessment Clinic, it is because we need to take a closer look at an area we have seen on your mammogram (breast X-ray). 

This is the second part of the screening process. It does not necessarily mean there is anything wrong. Please remember, most women who are called back have a normal result. 

Our assessment clinics are held at your nearest assessment centre, as identified on your invitation letter.  

How common is this?

• About 5 out of every 100 women who have screening will be invited for an additional assessment. 
• 4 out of 5 of these women will have a normal result.

Before your appointment

• Do not use talcum powder, perfume, lotion or spray deodorant under your arms or on your chest. These may affect the X-ray image.
• You can use roll-on or solid deodorant.

If you would like more information, speak to a breast care nurse:

• Halton: 01928 753550 / 01928 753030 (answering machine available to leave a message)
• St Helens: 01744 646053 (answering machine available to leave a message) 

A breast care nurse is a senior nurse who provides advice and support during diagnosis and treatment.

On the day

• Check in with the receptionist and wait in the waiting room.
• You will usually meet a breast care nurse who will explain what will happen. 
• Expect to be in the clinic for two to four hours. You may wish to bring a friend or relative.

Consent

You will be asked if you agree to any procedure and understand what it involves.

You can withdraw consent at any time.

Possible tests

• Breast examination: A doctor or practitioner will talk to you and examine your breasts.
• Mammogram: Further X-rays to look closely at a part of the breast.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to show breast tissue. No X-rays involved. 
• Needle biopsy: A small sample of tissue taken under local anaesthetic.

Please ask if there is anything that you do not understand or would like to discuss further.

When will I get the results?

• Most women receive their results at the clinic. 
• If normal, you return to routine screening every 3 years (up to age 71). 
• If you have a biopsy, results are ready in 7 to 14 days.

What if I cannot make the Breast Assessment clinic appointment?

Contact the breast screening secretaries (Monday to Friday, between 8:30am and 4:30pm) on the number below:

• 01925 275500, please ask to be put through to the medical secretary on either extension 5427 (Warrington / Halton) or 5425 (St Helens).

Further information

Visit our other website pages.