Private Mammogram
Gold-standard breast imaging for early cancer detection. No referral needed. Results reported by a consultant radiologist within 3 working days.
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Don't wait to be invited
The NHS breast screening programme invites women every three years, starting at age 50. If you're under 50, you're not in the programme at all. If you're over 50 but between screening rounds, you could be waiting up to three years for your next mammogram.
That gap worries a lot of women, particularly those with a family history of breast cancer or those who've found a change they want investigated now, not in six months.
A private mammogram closes that gap. You don't need a referral. You don't need to be a certain age. You just need to want it checked.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast tissue, designed to detect cancers, cysts, calcifications, and other abnormalities, often years before they can be felt by hand. It remains the gold standard for breast cancer screening worldwide. When breast cancer is detected early through screening, survival rates exceed 90%.
Mammography can identify changes as small as a few millimetres, well before a lump becomes palpable. That's why regular screening matters, even when you feel perfectly fine.
Why women book private mammograms
Family history: If a close relative has had breast cancer, your own risk is higher. NHS screening doesn't start until 50, and many women choose to start screening earlier and more frequently.
Between NHS rounds: The NHS programme screens every three years. A private mammogram fills the interval for those wanting annual screening or monitoring of a previous finding.
A new symptom: A lump, thickening, skin change, or nipple discharge. A private mammogram gets you an answer faster than waiting for standard pathways.
Peace of mind: Some women just want to know. Reassurance from a clear result is a perfectly valid reason for screening.
Post-treatment monitoring: For additional imaging between NHS follow-up appointments after previous breast cancer treatment.
Breast imaging services
Mammogram (bilateral)
Standard two-view mammography of both breasts. The primary screening tool for breast cancer detection. Reported by a consultant radiologist within 3 working days.
Book NowBreast ultrasound
Uses sound waves to investigate concerns, assess dense tissue, and distinguish solid masses from cysts. Often used alongside mammography.
View DetailsBreast MRI
The most detailed imaging available. Recommended for very high-risk patients or for further assessment of other findings.
View DetailsWhat happens at your appointment
Booking
Book online or walk in. No referral needed. Mammograms are available Monday – Friday, with doctor consultations and results review appointments available seven days a week.
Imaging Centre
Your mammogram is carried out at a specialist partner imaging centre near our Harley Street clinic. We coordinate all the details.
The Procedure
A female radiographer positions each breast between two plates. It takes 20-30 minutes and involves brief compression.
Expert Review
A consultant radiologist personally reviews your images—not an algorithm. You get a specialist's clinical opinion.
Rapid Results
Your report is sent within 3 working days. If further investigation is needed, we coordinate it immediately.
NHS vs Private Screening
| Feature | NHS Breast Screening | Medical Express Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Age eligibility | 50-71 years | Any age, no restriction |
| Frequency | Every 3 years | As often as appropriate |
| Referral | By invitation only | No referral needed |
| Wait time | Scheduled intervals | Same week availability |
| Results | Up to 2 weeks | 3 working days |
This is not a criticism of the NHS programme; it saves thousands of lives. However, a private mammogram fills the eligibility and frequency gaps on your terms.
Why the quality of reporting matters
A mammogram is only as useful as the person reading it. Our images are reported by consultant radiologists with specific breast imaging expertise. Every report includes a detailed description of the findings.
If your mammogram shows anything that warrants further investigation, you won't be left to chase referrals. We coordinate the next step directly, whether that's follow-up imaging or referral to a breast specialist.
Common Questions
Q.How much does a private mammogram cost in the UK?
A bilateral mammogram (both breasts) at Medical Express Clinic is £245. Breast ultrasound is £450 and breast MRI is £650. All imaging is reported by a consultant radiologist. Results are returned within 3 working days.
Q.Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly without a GP letter. If you do have a referral from your GP or consultant, bring it along and we'll ensure your results are shared with them.
Q.At what age should I start having mammograms?
The NHS programme begins at 50, but there's no minimum age for a private mammogram. If you have a family history of breast cancer, many guidelines suggest starting screening 10 years before the age your relative was diagnosed. If you're unsure, our doctors can advise.
Q.Does a mammogram hurt?
The breast is compressed briefly between two plates to obtain clear images. Most women describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful, and the compression lasts only a few seconds per view.
Q.What happens if something is found?
Your consultant radiologist will flag the finding in your report. If further investigation is needed, we arrange it directly: ultrasound, MRI, or referral to a breast specialist. You won't be left waiting or navigating the system on your own.
Q.How often should I have a mammogram?
This depends on your risk profile. For women at average risk, annual or biennial screening from age 40 is common. Women at higher risk may benefit from more frequent screening or combined imaging (mammogram plus ultrasound). Your doctor can advise.
Q.I've found a lump. Should I book a mammogram?
If you've found a new lump or breast change, book a GP consultation first. Your doctor will examine you and recommend the most appropriate imaging. In some cases, ultrasound is more informative than mammography for investigating a specific lump, particularly in younger women.
Q.Can I have a mammogram if I have breast implants?
Yes. Mammography can be performed on women with implants, though the technique is slightly modified. Let us know when you book so we can ensure the radiographer is prepared.
