Private Breast Screening

Why breast screening is important

Put simply, breast screening is a crucial service helping to save the lives of thousands of women every single year. As it stands, there are sadly over 55,000 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed every year. Thanks to advancements in modern medicine and technology, 75% of patients now survive breast cancer for 10 or more years. However, breast screening plays a crucial role in saving lives. When diagnosed at its earliest stage, all people with breast cancer will survive their disease for one year or more, compared with only 2 in 3 (66%) people when the disease is diagnosed at the latest stage.

Spotting cancer and any other abnormalities at an early stage is absolutely crucial. At LycaHealth, we recognise that going through screening, for both symptomatic and non-symptomatic patients, can be uncomfortable and worrying. That’s why we have launched our brand new London breast screening clinic; expertly designed and equipped with the latest imaging and diagnostic technology, to provide a modern healthcare experience in a relaxed environment for women.

As a one stop breast clinic, we offer a full suite of breast services; from routine consultations to a range of breast screening services. Everything is handled at our Canary Wharf and Orpington breast centres, meaning there is no need to book multiple appointments, follow-ups or face lengthy waiting times for your results. Our experienced breast team is on hand to guide you through the entire breast screening process in a timely manner.

Who is a suitable candidate for breast screening?

• You are 40 and over and are showing no symptoms, you can refer yourself for a routine consultation or a mammogram*
• You are symptomatic (showing signs of breast cancer) – note you will require a GP referral to be seen
• You have not had any mammography tests within the last 12 months

*If you are self-paying for your treatment. If you wish to access the service through your insurer, most insurance companies will require a referral from your doctor.

If you have any questions about our service, or booking a breast screening appointment in London, call 0207 132 1440 to speak with our clinic team.

Breast screening – no symptoms

If you are non-symptomatic and aged 40 or over, you can refer yourself for private breast screening at The Canary Wharf Breast Centre or The Orpington Breast Centre. Regular breast screening is vital to pick up on the early signs of breast cancer, giving patients the best chance of living a long and healthy life. Whilst you may carry out regular self-checks, our breast cancer screening services will spot abnormalities before you would be aware of any issues. Below are the services we currently offer as part of our breast screening service:

1. Routine breast consultations

Booking a breast consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss any general concerns you may have, as well as be examined by one of our breast care specialists.

2. Mammography

If you are aged 40 and over, and are non-symptomatic you can refer yourself for a mammogram at one of our clinics. The purpose of this method of breast screening is to gain a detailed view of your breasts to spot any abnormalities as early as possible. For example, a lump in your breast may be too small to be felt physically but can be picked up during your mammogram.

Find out more about our private mammography service launching in August 2021.

Breast screening – symptomatic

For those patients who have found a lump or have any other concerning symptoms in their breast, your GP will arrange a referral to our one stop breast care clinic for private breast cancer screening.

Breast cancer symptoms

• a new lump, or thickened tissue in either breast, or a lump or swelling in your armpit
• skin dimpling on the breast (this can be compared to the skin of an orange peel)
• a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• a rash, fluid discharge, or change in the appearance of one or both of your nipples

Whilst breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer, do not hesitate to get it checked out by a medical professional.

Our breast screening services for symptomatic cases

• Mammogram
• Breast Ultrasound
• Breast Biopsy

If an abnormal area is seen on your ultrasound scan or private mammogram, a biopsy may be necessary. This will involve taking some cells or tissue to send to a laboratory for examination. The biopsy can be taken in two ways:

1. Fine Needle Biopsy (FNA) – This involves taking cell samples from below the surface of the breast for our pathologist to examine.
2. Core Biopsy – This involves making a small incision in the breast so that some tissue can be removed for examination.

Breast MRI

If your biopsy has identified that you are positive for cancer, your consultant may recommend an MRI for deeper investigation. We are able to carry out your MRI within our breast centre, enabling you to access the treatment you need as quickly as possible.

How Do I Book My Breast Clinic Appointment?

You can email breastcentre@lycahealth.com or call us directly on 0330 054 4978