Tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography, offers significantly greater clarity and detail than traditional 2D imaging. By capturing multiple angles, it reduces the chance of overlapping tissue creating false alarms, one of the most common reasons for callbacks. This advanced technology improves cancer detection and lowers false positive rates, especially in patients with dense tissue, where both healthy and abnormal areas can appear white on a standard image.

Approved by the FDA in 2011, tomosynthesis has quickly become the gold standard in breast imaging. Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center is proud to be the most experienced provider on the Central Coast, offering this breakthrough service since 2012.

Dense breast tissue contains more glandular and connective tissue than fat, which can make it harder to detect abnormalities on a standard mammogram. This is because both dense tissue and potential areas of concern appear white on the image, making it more difficult to see clearly.

3D mammography offers improved clarity and is especially effective for those with dense tissue. While it provides benefits for all breast types and ages, an additional exam called Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) may also be recommended for the most thorough and accurate evaluation.

Yes, mammography is safe for individuals with implants. It helps detect cancer and checks the condition of the implants. Usually, two sets of images are taken. One set includes both the implant and surrounding tissue, and the second focuses more closely on the breast tissue. In some cases, mammography may not capture all of the tissue. Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound may be recommended to provide a more complete evaluation.

Preparing for a mammogram is easy and can help ensure the most accurate results. On the day of your exam, avoid using deodorant, powders, lotions, or perfumes on your underarms or chest, as these can show up on the images. Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to remove your top. If you’ve had mammograms at another facility, please bring those records or let us know so we can request them for comparison. Try to schedule your exam for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender, such as one week after your period. Our team is here to guide you with care, answer your questions, and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.

You will receive a results letter by mail within 14 days of your mammogram. If everything is clear, no further action is needed. In some cases, additional imaging may be recommended to complete the evaluation. If that’s the case, a member of our staff will call you directly to explain the reason and help schedule the next step. Our team is always available to answer your questions and ensure you feel informed and supported throughout the process.

• Detects Cancer Earlier: Increases the chances of finding cancer at its most treatable stage
• Improves Accuracy: Helps pinpoint the exact location of any abnormalities
• Reduces Unnecessary Biopsies: Minimizes false alarms and invasive follow-ups
• Provides Clarity and Confidence: Delivers clearer results, easing anxiety during the wait for answers

Your ultrasound will be a gentle, comfortable experience designed with your well-being in mind. A clear, warm gel will be applied to your skin to help sound waves travel smoothly. Using a small, handheld device called a transducer, the technician will glide over the area being examined, creating real-time images on a monitor. These images allow the radiologist to carefully evaluate your breast tissue. If something needs a closer look, additional views may be taken for clarity. The entire process is non-invasive, radiation-free, and typically takes less than 30 minutes. You are welcome to ask questions at any time, our team is here to support you.

Being called back for an ultrasound after a mammogram is common and not a reason to worry. In many cases, the radiologist simply needs a closer look at a specific area to complete your evaluation. This does not mean something is wrong, it means your SBWIC care team is being thorough.

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive way to examine areas that may appear unclear on a mammogram. It helps distinguish between normal tissue, fluid-filled cysts, and solid masses, offering greater clarity without using radiation. This follow-up step is especially useful when breast tissue overlaps or when more detail is needed to confidently interpret your results.
Having both a mammogram and an ultrasound is a normal part of the screening and diagnostic process. It’s about providing you with the most accurate information possible, so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

Breast ultrasound is a powerful, radiation-free imaging tool that offers clarity, reassurance, and deeper insight into your breast health. It is especially recommended for individuals with dense breast tissue, categories C or D, where traditional mammograms may miss early signs of cancer. Ultrasound is also useful for evaluating abnormalities found on a mammogram, helping distinguish between cysts and solid masses.

If you are under 35 and experiencing symptoms like a lump or pain, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have breast implants, ultrasound is often the safest and most effective first step. It’s also a valuable option for high-risk patients who cannot undergo MRI, as well as those with cysts, benign lumps, or ongoing symptoms that require monitoring. In patients already diagnosed with breast cancer, ultrasound helps assess the extent of disease and guides procedures like biopsies or fluid drainage.

Preparing for a breast ultrasound is simple and stress-free. No special diet or fasting is needed, and you can take your usual medications. On the day of your appointment, we recommend wearing a two-piece outfit, as you’ll only need to undress from the waist up. Avoid applying lotions, powders, or deodorants on your chest area, as these may interfere with image quality. Most importantly, bring any prior imaging records if they were done at another facility, this helps our radiologists compare and provide the most accurate evaluation. Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring you feel informed, comfortable, and cared for throughout your visit.

After your ultrasound, a radiologist will review your images right away while you wait. In most cases, you’ll receive same-day results and guidance on next steps before you leave. If additional imaging or follow-up is needed, our team will explain everything clearly and help you schedule what’s next. We’re here to provide clarity and support every step of the way.

• Safe and Radiation-Free: Uses sound waves instead of radiation, making it a gentle, non-invasive option for all patients
• Enhances Detection: Complements mammography by identifying abnormalities that may be hidden in dense breast tissue
• Clarifies Uncertain Findings: Helps distinguish between cysts and solid masses, reducing confusion and unnecessary procedures
• Personalized and Precise: Offers targeted imaging of areas with symptoms or concern, providing detailed insight and peace of mind

A breast MRI is a safe, non-invasive exam designed to provide highly detailed images of the breast. When you arrive, our staff will guide you through each step to ensure you feel comfortable and informed. You’ll change into a gown and lie face down on a padded table designed specifically for breast imaging. The table then slides gently into the MRI scanner, where you’ll be asked to remain still during the imaging process.

The exam typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll hear rhythmic tapping or thumping sounds as the machine captures images, earplugs or headphones will be provided for your comfort. If contrast is needed, a small IV will be placed to administer the contrast agent, which helps highlight certain structures. Throughout the exam, you’ll be in contact with our technologist, who will monitor you closely and ensure you’re at ease. Most patients find the experience quiet, calm, and entirely manageable. 

Preparing for a breast MRI is simple. You may eat, drink, and take your usual medications unless instructed otherwise. If your exam requires contrast, a technologist will place a small IV before the scan. Be sure to let us know in advance if you have any allergies, implanted devices, or a history of kidney issues, as these may affect how we proceed.

Please avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or deodorant on the day of your exam, as some products contain metals that can interfere with imaging. Wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared to change into a gown. You’ll be asked a few screening questions before your exam to ensure your safety. Our team is here to guide you through each step and help you feel at ease throughout the process.

While breast MRI is a safe and highly effective imaging tool, certain conditions may prevent you from having the exam. These include having a pacemaker or defibrillator, inner ear implants, or metal fragments in the eyes. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding may also be advised to postpone MRI, depending on the type of scan. You’ll be asked important safety questions during scheduling and again on the day of your appointment to ensure MRI is the right choice for you. Your comfort and safety are always our priority.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we offer advanced breast MRI with expert care in a calm, supportive environment. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Specialized Expertise: Interpreted by radiologists with advanced training in breast imaging
• State-of-the-Art Technology: High-resolution imaging for clearer, more accurate results
• Tailored Options: Contrast and non-contrast MRI available based on your individual needs
• Trusted for Complex Cases: Chosen by physicians across the Central Coast for high-risk screening, implant evaluation, and cancer staging

Most implant ruptures are silent, meaning they show no outward signs. Without imaging, they can go unnoticed for years, increasing the chance of scar tissue and complications.

Detecting a rupture early gives you more options and may allow you to take advantage of implant warranties. Major FDA-approved manufacturers like Mentor and Allergan offer a 10-year warranty, but claims must be made within specific timeframes. Regular MRI screening empowers you to make informed, timely decisions about your health and your implants.

Your exam will be safe, comfortable, and non-invasive. You’ll lie face down on a padded table designed to support your chest and implants, while the MRI captures detailed images using magnetic fields, no radiation or contrast is needed.

The scan typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll hear rhythmic tapping as the machine operates, but headphones or earplugs will be provided for comfort. A trained technologist will monitor you throughout the exam and make sure you’re at ease.

Preparing for an implant surveillance MRI is simple and straightforward. You may eat, drink, and take your usual medications unless told otherwise. Because this exam does not require contrast, no IV will be needed. Please avoid wearing makeup, lotions, or deodorant on your chest or underarms, as some products may interfere with image quality. Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to change into a gown upon arrival. You’ll also be asked a few screening questions to ensure MRI is safe for you, such as whether you have any implanted devices or metal fragments. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way and make your visit as comfortable and reassuring as possible.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we provide high-resolution implant MRI with precision, privacy, and compassion. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Specialized Expertise: Interpreted by radiologists experienced in both cosmetic and reconstructive implant imaging
• Advanced Imaging Technology: High-resolution, non-contrast MRI for the most accurate evaluation of implant integrity
• Focused on You: Every exam is approached with care, respect, and sensitivity to your personal needs
• Trusted by Surgeons and Patients: Preferred by providers across the Central Coast for implant surveillance and silent rupture detection

Bone Density Testing offers a simple, empowering way to understand your bone health and take proactive steps toward lifelong strength and stability. DEXA can detect bone loss early, often before symptoms appear, allowing you and your doctor to act before a fracture occurs. It also helps monitor how well treatments are working and provides insight into your personal risk of fracture.

The scan itself is quick, painless, and uses minimal radiation, with no injections or recovery time needed. For anyone looking to maintain mobility, prevent injury, or manage a chronic condition, DEXA offers peace of mind through knowledge, clarity, and early intervention.

The DEXA scan takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll lie comfortably on your back while the scanner measures your bone density at key locations. The process is simple, quiet, and completely painless, with no injections or physical discomfort.

Your scan will be interpreted by a radiologist who specializes in bone health, and results will be sent to your referring provider. Together, you and your physician can take proactive steps to protect your bones and reduce your risk of fracture.

Preparing for a DEXA scan is easy and stress-free. You may eat, drink, and take your usual medications as you normally would. We recommend wearing loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or buttons, athleisure or sweatpants work especially well. There’s no need to change if your outfit is free of metal. If you’ve had a barium study within the past week, you may need to reschedule, as it can affect the accuracy of your results. Before your scan, you’ll be asked to complete a brief health questionnaire to give our radiologist important context for interpreting your results. Our goal is to make the experience smooth, comfortable, and informative from start to finish.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we offer advanced bone density testing in a setting designed to support your comfort, confidence, and long-term health. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Specialized Expertise: Interpreted by radiologists with advanced training in bone health and fracture risk assessment
• Accurate, Low-Dose Technology: State-of-the-art DEXA equipment delivers precise results with minimal radiation
• Patient-Centered Care: Exams are performed with kindness, clarity, and attention to your individual needs
• Trusted for Preventive Screening and Treatment Monitoring: Preferred by physicians throughout the Central Coast for reliable evaluation and follow-up

Your comfort and confidence are our top priorities throughout the biopsy process. When you arrive, our team will walk you through each step and answer any questions you may have. The procedure begins with gently cleansing the skin and applying a local anesthetic to numb the area, most patients report minimal discomfort. Using advanced imaging to guide us, your radiologist will precisely locate the area of concern and use a thin needle to collect a small tissue sample. A tiny titanium marker may be placed at the biopsy site for future reference, and a small bandage will be applied. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and you’ll be able to return home the same day. Our team will provide clear aftercare instructions and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Preparing for your breast biopsy is simple, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way. You may eat and drink as usual unless otherwise instructed, and most patients can continue their regular medications. However, for all biopsy procedures, it is preferable to stop taking aspirin, blood thinners, and certain supplements 5 to 7 days prior to your appointment. This includes medications such as aspirin, Advil, Excedrin, Plavix, Naprosyn, Motrin, and supplements like Vitamin E, Ginkgo, Fish Oil, and many herbal products. Please consult your physician before making any changes to your routine.

Wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit, and avoid applying lotions, powders, or deodorant near the area being examined. You’ll receive personalized instructions when your appointment is scheduled, and we’ll review them with you again on the day of your procedure to ensure you feel confident and well-prepared.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we offer three types of image-guided breast biopsy, each chosen based on the location and visibility of the area being evaluated.

A Stereotactic Breast Biopsy uses mammography to guide the needle to the area of concern, often used for findings that appear on a mammogram but are not seen on ultrasound. An Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy is the most common method and is used when the abnormality can be clearly seen on ultrasound. It allows for real-time imaging and is typically quick and well tolerated. An MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy is used when a finding is only visible on breast MRI, offering highly detailed guidance for precise targeting.

Your radiologist will recommend the best approach based on your individual imaging results, ensuring the most accurate and comfortable experience possible.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to ensure your biopsy experience is as comfortable and reassuring as possible. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert Radiologists: Highly trained in breast imaging and image-guided biopsy techniques
• Personalized Approach: Every procedure is tailored to your unique imaging and comfort needs
• State-of-the-Art Technology: Offering stereotactic, ultrasound-guided, and MRI-guided biopsies for precise, minimally invasive diagnosis
• Supportive Environment: Calm, private setting designed to ease anxiety and support your peace of mind
• Seamless Care Coordination: We work closely with your referring provider and ensure timely follow-up and clear next steps

On the day of your surgery, you will first come to Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center for your wire localization procedure. Our team will explain each step and ensure you feel comfortable and informed. After gently cleaning the skin, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. Using imaging, either mammography, ultrasound, or MRI, we’ll carefully guide a thin wire into or near the area to be removed during surgery. You may feel light pressure, but the procedure is typically well tolerated and takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Once the marker is placed and secured, you’ll be ready to proceed to your surgical appointment. The marker will stay in place during surgery to help your surgeon locate the targeted area with precision. Throughout the process, we are here to answer questions, ease concerns, and support you with thoughtful, expert care.

Preparing for a localization is straightforward, and our team will guide you through each step. You’ll receive specific instructions from your surgeon’s office about how to prepare for your surgery, including any dietary or medication restrictions. In most cases, no special preparation is needed for the wire placement itself.

Wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit, as you’ll only need to undress from the waist up for the procedure. Avoid applying lotions, powders, or deodorant on the chest area, as they can interfere with imaging. If you take blood thinners or other medications that affect bleeding, be sure to consult your physician in advance. Our staff will be here to answer any questions and ensure you feel well-informed and supported on the day of your procedure.

At Santa Barbara Women’s Imaging Center, we know that preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming. That’s why we approach preoperative localization with precision, compassion, and clear communication, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

• Experienced Radiologists: Trusted experts in image-guided wire placement for a wide range of surgical needs
• Advanced Imaging: Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI guidance used to ensure accurate and gentle placement
• Collaborative Care: Seamless coordination with your surgeon to support the best possible outcome
• Comfort-Focused Setting: A calm, private environment designed to ease anxiety and promote peace of mind
• Personalized Support: Clear instructions, compassionate guidance, and a team dedicated to your well-being