Private mammogram (breast screening) at Syon Clinic in Brentford, West London
A mammogram is a specialist X-ray of the breast, which is used to look for changes in breast tissue. It is one of the most important tools for detecting breast cancer and other breast problems at an early stage, often before you or your doctor can feel a lump.
At Syon Clinic in Brentford, private mammograms are carried out by experienced radiographers using modern digital mammography equipment. Your images are interpreted by consultant radiologists, and your results are shared promptly with you and your referring doctor.
We see both symptomatic and non-symptomatic patients at our breast clinic. If you are concerned about changes to your breasts, give us a call and we will arrange an appointment at our rapid access breast clinic. If you don’t have symptoms but would like a mammogram for screening purposes, you can give us a call, or you can use our online booking system.
Choosing a private mammogram at Syon Clinic allows you to access breast imaging quickly and at a time that suits you, in a calm, professional environment with clear explanations at every step.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray examination of the breast. It is used to look for small lumps or calcifications that may not be felt during a physical examination, to assess changes you or your doctor have noticed in your breasts, and to monitor breast health over time, particularly if you are at increased risk of breast cancer.
There are two main types of mammogram:
- A screening mammogram is carried out when you have no breast symptoms, to look for early signs of abnormality
- A diagnostic mammogram is carried out when you have symptoms such as a lump, pain, discharge or skin changes, or when something has been seen on another test and needs further assessment
At Syon Clinic, mammograms are tailored to your circumstances. Your radiographer will explain the type of mammogram you are having and why it has been recommended.
Why might you need a mammogram?
You may be advised to have a mammogram for several reasons.
Mammogram is used as a routine breast screening to check for early signs of breast cancer, particularly if you are in an age group where regular breast screening is recommended, or if you have a strong family history of breast cancer and your doctor suggests more frequent or earlier screening.
New breast symptoms can also be investigated with a mammogram. These might include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes, such as dimpling or puckering
- Nipple changes, such as inversion, rash or discharge (especially blood-stained)
- Persistent, unexplained breast pain
You might also be recommended a mammogram to follow up on a previous finding, for example to monitor a known benign (non-cancerous) area over time or to assess the outcome of previous treatment.
Your GP or a specialist breast clinician may refer you for a mammogram, or you may choose to self-refer for private screening, depending on your age and hospital policy. If you are unsure whether a mammogram is appropriate for you, the team at Syon Clinic can advise based on your symptoms, age and risk factors.
How can I book a mammogram at Syon Clinic?
To arrange a private mammogram at Syon Clinic in Brentford, you can either ask your GP or a specialist to send a referral to the breast imaging team at Syon Clinic, or contact us directly to discuss booking a self-pay screening mammogram, where this is available.
When you get in touch, the bookings team will confirm the type of mammogram you need (screening or diagnostic), advise whether a referral is required in your situation, ask a few questions about your breast history and any previous imaging, and offer you an appointment time that fits your schedule.
What to expect when you come for your mammogram in Brentford
On the day of your mammogram, you will need to check in at reception, where someone will direct you to the imaging department.
You’ll be asked to complete or confirm a short breast health questionnaire, which helps us ensure we’re giving you the right treatment. The radiographer will then explain the procedure to you, and they’ll answer any questions you might have, big or small.
After your mammogram, your images will be reviewed by a consultant radiologist. A report will be sent to your referring clinician, and you will be informed how and when you will receive your results. If you have self-referred for screening, the clinic will explain the process for communicating results directly to you.
How does a mammogram work?
A mammogram uses a specialised X-ray machine designed for imaging breast tissue. The machine takes multiple low-dose X-ray images of your breasts, which can identify abnormalities including both cancerous and benign lumps.
It’s a straightforward procedure that usually takes 15-30 minutes.
What happens during a mammogram?
You’ll be asked to stand in front of the mammography machine, and your radiographer will place one breast at a time on a flat plate and gently position it to include as much tissue as possible.
A second plate lowers to compress the breast, which spreads the breast tissue out, reducing its thickness and allowing us to use a lower dose of X-ray. Reducing the thickness also keeps your breast still, allowing for clearer pictures, and it can make smaller abnormalities easier to see.
The pressure may feel uncomfortable for a few seconds but should not be painful. If it does hurt, you should tell the radiographer so they can adjust the position.
The resulting X-ray images give a detailed view of your breasts, usually from at least two angles. Your radiographer will do a quick check before you leave to ensure they’re clear and of good quality. Later, a radiologist will study them in detail to create a report for you and your doctor.
How much does a mammogram cost at Syon Clinic?
The cost of a private mammogram at Syon Clinic in Brentford depends on various factors, including:
- Whether you are having a screening mammogram or a diagnostic mammogram
- Whether additional views, ultrasound or other imaging are needed at the same visit
- Any follow-up consultations or further tests that may be recommended based on your results
Before you book your appointment, the hospital team will confirm which type of mammogram you are having and give you a clear, fixed-price quotation for the scan, including a detailed breakdown of costs.
You can choose to fund your treatment through self-pay (paying for yourself) or use private health insurance. We work with most major providers, and our friendly advisory team can help guide you through using your cover.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions and fully understand your options before proceeding. Our team is also available to discuss pricing and appointment availability, helping you plan your treatment with confidence.
Why choose Syon Clinic for your mammogram?
When you choose to go private with Syon Clinic in Brentford for your mammogram, you can expect:
Fast access to appointments
Shorter waiting times for breast imaging, helping you obtain reassurance or start any needed treatment as soon as possible.
Experienced breast imaging team
Your mammogram will be performed by trained radiographers and interpreted by consultant radiologists with expertise in breast imaging.
Modern digital mammography equipment
Up-to-date technology is used to produce clear, detailed images with carefully controlled radiation doses.
Calm, professional environment
The clinic aims to make your visit as comfortable and dignified as possible, with staff who understand that breast imaging can sometimes feel worrying or intimate.
Clear communication and coordinated care
Results are reported promptly and shared with your referring clinician. If further tests, such as breast ultrasound or a biopsy, are recommended, Syon Clinic can help you arrange these quickly and coordinate follow-up with a breast specialist.
Flexible appointment times
Where possible, appointments are offered at times that fit around work, family and other commitments.
If you would like to arrange a private mammogram in Brentford or have questions about breast imaging, you can contact Syon Clinic directly by phone or via the online enquiry form. The bookings team will guide you through the next steps and help you access the care you need with confidence.