Breast MRI

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Breast MRI?

Breast MRI is a supplemental screening test in addition to annual 3D mammography. Breast MRI takes about 35 to 40 minutes in the scanner. Your total appointment time will take less than an hour.

Why should I consider getting a Breast MRI?

If you are high risk for breast cancer or are of average risk but have dense breasts, a Breast MRI will significantly improve our ability to find cancers not seen on a mammogram. A Breast MRI screening is not intended to replace 3D mammography. An annual 3D mammogram remains the recommended standard of care for women over 40.

How can I calculate my personal risk?

You can calculate your personal risk for developing breast cancer by this link: https://ibis.ikonopedia.com

Note that high risk means having a greater than 20% lifetime risk of breast cancer.

How is the screening performed?

You will lie on your stomach with your arms outstretched, and you will receive an IV line for an injection of dye. We take the usual precautions before this scan, such as making sure you do not have metal in certain locations in your body or that you are not allergic to the IV contrast.

How much does it cost?

If your insurance does not cover Breast MRI, please consider Fast Breast MRI as an alternative. Insurance does not cover Fast Breast MRI, and it has an out-of-pocket cost of $495.00.

Please Note: To be a candidate for Fast Breast MRI you should not have any breast lumps, nipple discharge or any other breast problem. You also need to have had a normal or probably benign mammogram within one year of a Fast Breast MRI screening test.

What are the follow-up recommendations?

The results of your Breast MRI will be reported to your referring clinician within 2 to 3 business days. If there are abnormalities on your scan, you may need to have additional studies (mammography or ultrasound) or even a biopsy. These tests are generally covered by insurance.

Will I still need to have an annual mammogram?

Yes, Breast MRI is a supplemental screening tool and is meant to support your annual 3D mammography regimen.

How do I schedule a Breast MRI exam?

Talk to your doctor about whether you need an additional screening test for breast cancer. If so, you will need an order from your provider prior to scheduling. You can make an appointment for a Breast MRI by calling one of the Washington Radiology centers below:

4445 Willard Avenue, Suite 200, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 | 301-654-4242
3022 Williams Drive, Suite 104, Fairfax, VA 22031 | 703-698-8800
12505 Park Potomac Avenue, Suite 120, Potomac, MD 20854 | 202-223-9722
2141 K Street NW, Suite 100, Washington, DC 20037 | 240-223-4700

For additional information please refer to the most recent American College of Radiology recommendations:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacr.2023.04.002