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Breast MRI in Rochester

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a highly sensitive, noninvasive diagnostic tool often used with mammography and ultrasound. It helps physicians evaluate the extent of breast cancer, establish a treatment plan, and monitor a patient’s response to chemotherapy. This advanced technology is also a valuable screening tool for patients considered to be at high risk for breast cancer, whether due to strong family history, genetic risk, personal history, or other risk factors.

MRI is an advanced, state-of-the-art medical imaging method. Breast MRI uses a powerful but harmless magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the breast and its internal structures. No radiation is used for MRI imaging. The average Breast MRI appointment takes about one hour. However, the actual scan time is only about 20 minutes. Before the exam, you may eat and drink as usual and take medications as you usually would.

MRI scans pose minimal risks to most patients if safety guidelines are followed. One of our MRI staff will call you before your appointment to review these guidelines and the specifics of your exam.

Our radiology clinics are conveniently located in Batavia, Brighton, Geneseo, Greece, Victor, Watertown, and Webster. Call (585) 442-2190 to schedule your appointment at any of our breast imaging centers in the Rochester area today!

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  • Have a known ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, CHEK2, NBN, PALB2, PTEN, STK11, or TP53 gene mutation
  • Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation and have not had genetic testing themselves
  • Have a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer ≥20%, according to risk assessment tools, that are based mainly on family history
  • Had radiation therapy to the chest wall when they were between the ages of 10 and 30 years

Missed or canceled MRI appointments with less than 24-hour notice: $200 fee charged.

If more than two appointments are missed or canceled without prior notice to our office in a two-year period, we reserve the right not to schedule any further appointments. Terms subject to change without prior notice.

Please review the following checklist prior to your exam:

  • If you think you may be claustrophobic, ask your health care provider to prescribe medication prior to the exam. If you do receive medication, bring someone with you to drive you home.
  • No metal is allowed in the MRI exam room. Safety pins, straight pins, metal hairpins, and all jewelry must be removed before entering the room.
  • If you were involved in an accident and may have a metal foreign body imbedded please be sure to tell the technologist prior to the exam. This may require you to have an x-ray prior to your MRI appointment to ensure foreign bodies are identified and their location.
  • You CANNOT have the exam if you have any of the following: cerebral aneurysm clips, certain heart valves, cochlear implants, metal filings in the eye, or a pacemaker.
  • BREAST Implants and MRI: Breast MRI is sometimes used to image silicone breast implants. If you have breast implants, it is important that you tell the technologist when she calls you before your exam and approximately how many years you’ve had them.

Exam Preparation:

  • Hydrate well prior to your appointment as we need to place an IV.
  • You will be lying on your stomach for 15-20 minutes.  Contact the office if this will be difficult for you.
  • If you think you may be claustrophobic, ask your doctor to prescribe medication prior to the exam.  You must have a driver take you to and from your appointment.
  • You will be given MRI-safe scrub pants to wear during the exam.
  • No metal is allowed: safety, straight and hair pins, along with any jewelry must be removed.
  • If your occupation includes metal work, please inform the office prior to your appointment as additional tests may be required.
  • You cannot have the exam if you have any of the following:
    • Cerebral aneurysm clips
    • Certain heart valves
    • Cochlear implants
    • Pacemaker
    • Metal eye filings

Breast MRI is a relatively comfortable and easy exam. You will be asked to lie on your stomach on a cushioned bed. Your breasts will be positioned within a padded opening on the bed. The bed will move into the magnet for the exam, and you will hear a muffled thumping sound intermittently throughout the scan. The most important thing you can do to ensure your exam is successful is to hold as still as you can throughout the procedure.

Most breast MRI exams require an injection of a contrast agent. An intravenous catheter (I.V.) for this injection will be placed in your arm before lying on the bed. Please tell us if you have ever had an allergic reaction to MRI contrast in the past (or any other contrast agent) or if you have any renal (kidney) disease.

Please note each insurance company has it’s own criteria to meet in order for coverage. Please check with your individual insurance provider to determine your coverage and eligibility for breast MRI. Our staff at EWBC can also help provide assistance and information to you and your PCP to help the process.

Please be advised that if your insurance requires a copayment or you have a deductible plan, this payment will be collected on the day of your MRI appointment.