Your physician has recommended a bilateral screening mammogram. Cedars-Sinai has a team of mammography specialists led by Donald S. Cohen, MD. The role of this procedure is to evaluate your breast tissue for any abnormalities including cysts, other benign abnormalities or a malignancy.
It is suggested that you do not schedule your mammogram for the week prior to your menstrual cycle (period) as your breasts are usually very sensitive at this time.
It is important that you do not wear deodorant or talcum powder on the day of your exam.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.
You will be asked to complete a "Breast Imaging Questionnaire" prior to your exam. The technologist will review this information with you and will add additional information, as necessary.
You will change into a patient gown, removing your clothes from the waist up.
Once in the exam room, pictures of each breast will be taken.
Pictures are taken while applying pressure to your breast. Although the pressure may be uncomfortable, it is essential to obtain quality pictures.
Your exam will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Upon completion of your exam, the technologist will review the X-ray films and you will be released.
There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.
An imaging physician will review your study and the results will be sent to your doctor with a follow-up letter to you.
An imaging physician may call you back for additional pictures. This is to ensure that any possible abnormality in your breast be thoroughly evaluated.
In conjunction with the additional imaging, an ultrasound may also be used to evaluate an abnormality.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.
If your exam is at the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center:
S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center parking is located in Lot P7 at the corner of San Vicente Boulevard and Gracie Allen Drive. Enter off Sherbourne Drive.
Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center lobby. There is a large metal sculpture in the shape of the number "8" in front of the center.
You may also park in the Medical Center North Tower off George Burns Road.
There is a curbside patient drop-off zone on Gracie Allen Drive.
If your exam is at 310 S. San Vicente:
The Marcia Israel Mammography Center is located on the northeast corner of San Vicente and Beverly Boulevard, diagonally across from the main Cedars-Sinai Medical Center campus. The address is 310 S. San Vicente Blvd.
Parking is available in a lot to the north of the building on San Vicente Blvd. Parking is free with validation.
