A Guide to 2D and 3D Mammograms For Optimal Breast Health in Singapore

What is a mammogram and how does it work?

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect early signs of breast cancer. During a mammogram, your breast will be gently positioned between two X-ray plates, which compress your breast tissue to ensure clear images. These X-rays will then be analysed by a doctor, who will meet with you to discuss and explain the results.

Types of mammogram

At Icon Health Screening, we offer two primary types of mammograms: 2D and 3D. Each has distinct features designed to meet different patient needs and preferences.

2D mammograms

In a 2D mammogram, the breast is imaged from two different angles, typically top-to-bottom and side-to-side. This provides a flat, two-dimensional view of the breast tissue, which is widely used for general breast screening.

2D mammograms have been used for breast cancer screening for many years and are effective for detecting larger masses or obvious abnormalities in the breast tissue. For those with dense breast tissue, 3D mammograms may be preferred, as they can detect smaller abnormalities.

3D mammograms

A 3D mammogram captures multiple X-ray images from various angles, creating a more detailed three-dimensional view of the breast tissue. This advanced technology offers the following benefits:

Shorter scanning time: With simultaneous image reconstruction, 3D mammography reduces scanning time, allowing a faster patient experience.
Personalised compression: The 3D system captures high-resolution images from multiple angles in a single session, reducing the need for repeated compressions typically required in 2D mammograms. The machine adjusts the compression based on individual breast size and shape, ensuring a more comfortable and personalised experience.
Minimised discomfort: Soft compression pads with rounded edges are used to improve comfort during the screening process. The paddle automatically stops at the optimal compression level, making the experience more gentle, particularly for those who may find mammograms uncomfortable, or who have a lower threshold for pain.
Higher accuracy: 3D mammograms offer enhanced mass detectability and up to 3.5 times better depth resolution than 2D mammography, improving the ability to detect abnormalities, particularly in dense breast tissue.

Who should receive a mammogram and why?

An annual mammogram screening is recommended for all Singaporean women aged 40 years and above. Mammogram screening plays an important role in the early detection of breast cancer, ensuring any changes to the breast are identified at an early stage (before you experience signs and symptoms) and offering a better chance of successful treatment.

Preparing for your mammogram

A supportive step-by-step approach:

Make your appointment via online booking, phone, WhatsApp or email – A member of our team will be in touch to confirm your appointment.
Pre-mammogram screening assessment – Our team will assist to explain the process to you, how to prepare, and help you feel comfortable ahead of your mammogram appointment.
Post-mammogram review – Our team will contact you with the results from your mammogram screening and will arrange for a face-to-face consultation with our doctor to explain these results.

Don’t delay, book your mammogram screening today, please click here to make an appointment or contact us.

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FAQs

Sometimes you may be asked to come in for a secondary mammogram. Additional screens are to:
Look at an area of your breasts from other angles, or with further magnification
- Evaluate a cyst in more detail
- Evaluate calcifications – small pieces of calcium which develop in the tissue
- Flatten out / compress the tissue to smooth out any overlap
- Evaluate augmented breasts with implants (based on referral from a doctor)
If changes to your breast are detected through a mammogram, this does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Your doctor will organise further mammograms, tests or scans to investigate your results, such as an ultrasound of your breast to identify any areas of concern, and may refer you to a specialist doctor if necessary. At Icon Health Screening, we are here to support you throughout this process and will ensure you receive comprehensive care both during screening and beyond into treatment if required.
It is recommended to schedule your mammogram screening when your breasts are least likely to be tender. If you have not gone through menopause, this is usually during the week after your menstrual period. Your breasts are most likely to be tender the week before and the week during your menstruation.
Although mammograms may cause some discomfort, this only lasts a short amount of time during the screening process and can be minimised by scheduling the procedure when your breasts are least likely to be tender (e.g. the week following your menstrual period).