Breast ultrasound is a safe, painless and widely used imaging exam for the assessment of breast tissue. It allows detailed visualisation of breast structures, helping to detect and characterise nodules, cysts and other abnormalities. It is often used as a complement to mammography, particularly in women with dense breast tissue.
What is a Breast Ultrasound and what is it for?
Breast ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the breasts. Unlike imaging exams that use radiation, this method is considered safe and can be repeated whenever necessary.
It is used to:
- Assess palpable breast lumps or findings detected on other imaging exams;
- Differentiate solid lesions from fluid-filled cysts;
- Complement mammography, especially in dense breasts;
- Guide procedures such as ultrasound-guided breast biopsies;
- Monitor previously known breast changes.
It is frequently recommended for younger women and pregnant patients, as well as in cases of breast pain, inflammation or nipple discharge.
How much does a Breast Ultrasound cost?
The price of a breast ultrasound is €30 on a private basis. X-Clinic also has agreements with:
- ADSE (the patient only pays a co-payment of €8), ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, among others;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, among others.
- Protocols: X-Clinic has agreements with several clinics and institutions that allow you to have the exam done at very competitive rates. In the case of a breast ultrasound, the protocol price is €24.
The final price may vary depending on the healthcare system or insurance used.
How is it performed?
Breast ultrasound is performed with the patient lying on an examination table, in a dimly lit room to facilitate image interpretation.
The doctor applies a transparent gel to the skin of the breast, which improves sound wave transmission and allows the probe to glide smoothly. The probe is then carefully moved over the breast and, when necessary, over the axillary region to assess the lymph nodes.
Images are obtained and viewed in real time on a monitor and interpreted by an imaging specialist. The exam usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.
What does it detect?
Breast ultrasound allows the identification of:
- Simple or complex cysts;
- Benign or suspicious solid nodules;
- Inflammatory or infectious changes;
- Thickening of the breast ducts;
- Abnormal axillary lymph nodes.
It is an essential exam for characterising breast findings and guiding the need for further investigations.
In which cases is it indicated?
Breast ultrasound is indicated in situations such as:
- Palpable breast lumps;
- Persistent breast pain;
- Changes in breast shape or consistency;
- Nipple discharge;
- Complementary assessment to mammography;
- Follow-up of known breast lesions;
- Breast assessment in young women, pregnant patients or breastfeeding women.
Preparing for a Breast Ultrasound
This exam does not require any specific preparation.
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove on the upper body and to avoid applying creams or lotions to the breast area on the day of the exam, as these may interfere with image quality.
Whenever possible, bring previous exams (ultrasounds, mammograms and medical reports) and the exam referral, if available, to facilitate comparison and clinical interpretation.
Where to have it done?
A breast ultrasound can be performed at X-Clinic (Av. Eng. Duarte Pacheco, nº 26 – mezzanine floor, 1070-110 Lisbon) or at NRD (Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon – near Praça de Espanha).
