"Early detection saves lives. The earlier a breast cancer is caught, the better the
chance of successful treatment. Augusta University breast specialists recommend that,
after age 40, you have a mammogram every year so we can catch cancers when they are
small and cure is possible."
-Dr. Michelle Lee, MD Chief of Breast Imaging at AU Health
"Early detection saves lives. The earlier a breast cancer is caught, the better the
chance of successful treatment. Augusta University breast specialists recommend that,
after age 40, you have a mammogram every year so we can catch cancers when they are
small and cure is possible."
-Dr. Michelle Lee, MD Chief of Breast Imaging at AU Health
Why Choose Augusta University Breast Health Center
At AU Health, we are proud to offer breast imaging services at two locations - the
Breast Health Center, a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, and AU Health Imaging - the American College of Radiology accredits both our centers. So, if you are looking for outstanding teams who will
partner with you in all aspects of breast health, see us first.
Our Locations
Downtown, at Augusta University Medical Center, you'll know us by the Breast Health Center's signature “pink columns”. Here, we offer comprehensive care for all your breast health
needs, including routine breast mammograms, biopsies, genetic and DEXA screenings,
as well as breast cancer care.
At AU HeaIth Imaging, we offer a wide range of imaging services, including mammograms, biopsies, and bone
density screenings. And, we make getting your mammogram easy; you simply walk in for
one, no appointment needed!
Patients come to AU Health because we offer:
The most advanced imaging technologies available, including 3D mammography.
Evaluation by board-certified, fellowship-trained breast radiologists - no other hospital
or center in Augusta, Georgia can offer this. In fact, other area hospitals refer
their patients to us because of our level of expertise.
Breast specialists with the highest levels of training to perform breast biopsies.
The only dedicated, fellowship-trained breast surgeons in the area.
Collaboration with the Georgia Cancer Center, located right here on the AU Health campus, to achieve the best outcomes for our
patients.
NAPBC Accredited Breast Center designation by the American College of Surgeons. This is awarded to medical centers that offer the most advanced breast cancer diagnostic
and treatment options.
Services We Offer
Every woman. Every year. We recommend annual screenings/mammograms every year starting at age 40. We also provide
osteoporosis screenings and referrals for high-risk breast patients to a genetic counselor
for a consultation.
Breast Imaging Services
When it comes to breast imaging, we have pursued the highest levels of accreditation,
letting patients know that we take their breast health as seriously as they do. We
hold accreditations in mammography, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, and stereotactic
breast biopsy.
Mammograms
Our Breast Health Center was the first in Augusta, Georgia to use the 3D digital mammography
system. We use this technology on all our patients as it provides the best images
of the breast, allowing us to pick up the earliest signs of cancer. Mammograms are
read by our breast radiologists, whose advanced training and years of experience enables
them to see what other radiologists might not recognize as early-stage cancer. We
offer:
3D Screening Mammograms: Performed annually to look for early signs of cancer
3D Diagnostic Mammograms: If an area of concern is found, a diagnostic mammogram will be done to get a closer
look.
Breast ultrasound: Sound waves are sent through the breast to evaluate for cancer.
Breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Breast MRI is used in high-risk patients or those with a new breast cancer diagnosis.
Biopsy Services
Every biopsy is performed with our patients’ needs in mind and always includes the
little things, like providing you with a warm blanket or a reassuring hand to hold.
Breast biopsies are carried out by highly trained breast specialists using the latest
technology to increase accuracy and comfort. We perform:
Ultrasound biopsies
Stereotactic biopsies
MRI biopsies
Other Services
Bone Health Screening: Osteoporosis is a condition where bones lose their density and become more prone to
breaks. As you age, osteoporosis becomes more common. Our center recommends Bone Densitometry Screening (or DEXA screening) to determine if osteoporosis is present and how it is affecting you. These screenings
are vital in preventing significant bone loss, and if we do find low bone density,
our doctors can help you slow its progression through medication and exercise.
Genetic Counseling Referrals: Every woman should have an assessment to determine their lifetime risk of developing
breast cancer. High-risk women require more intensive, and often earlier, screenings
and may be eligible for preventive measures. Ask your technologist to help you find
out your risk today. If you are found to be at increased risk for breast cancer, we
will refer you to a high-risk specialist for genetic counseling and personalized care.
Nurse Navigators
At AU Health, our breast health nurse navigators are your partner. They will be with
you throughout your entire breast care journey, whether you are here for a biopsy
or have concerns that you are at a higher risk for breast cancer, nurse navigators:
Work with you and your doctors to develop a personalized plan based on your needs.
Schedule appointments with our breast specialists.
Prepare you for your biopsy.
Educate you about what to expect over the coming weeks or months, let you know when
to expect results, and explain what your results mean.
Follow up with you after biopsy to see how you are doing and answer questions.
Schedule and set up screenings with genetic counselors.
Talk to you about survivorship.
Our Providers
Augusta University Medical Center specialists provide care and support throughout your entire healthcare journey.
