Life after Mastectomy Mammogram or MRI?

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Ericamary
Ericamary Member Posts: 44
edited June 2014 in Managing Side Effects of Breast Cancer and Its Treatment
Life after Mastectomy Mammogram or MRI?
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  • Ericamary
    Ericamary Member Posts: 44
    edited July 2012

    I get so much conflicting stuff from my Cancer dr. She wants me to have a mammogram yearly, even though I had a double Mastectomy.  I now have lymphedema so that is pretty much out. My understanding is insurance will only let you have an MRI once?  I had cancer 4 years ago, and haven't had a mammogram or MRI since then. What are others doing and being told by their drs. on their yearly followups.

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  • mawhinney
    mawhinney Member Posts: 1,377
    edited July 2012

    Follow-up testing will  depend on the type & extent of breast cancer you had, the treatment you received, and type of reconstruction you had. You need to have a discussion with your doctor about the follow-up testing you need, how often you need the recommended tests, and why you need each test recommended. Consider taking another adult with you when you talk to your doctor to jot down notes.

    I am followed by my surgical oncologist & my medical oncologist. I had a unilateral mastectomy. I have a diagnostic mammogram on my "good" side once a year. As there is nothing left on the mastectomy side, it is not mammogramed.  I have a yearly MRI involving both sides as my cancer was first spotted by an MRI. As needed, I have an ultrasound of both breasts. 

    What type of doctor are you seeing? A breast specialist or a general practioner. My insurance has convered the yearly testing. You might call your insurance company directly and ask if an MRI is covered and what are their requirements for coverage.

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