Life After a Mammogram: Next Steps if You Need More Testing
October 29, 2025A mammogram is one of the best tools for catching breast cancer early. But sometimes, your doctor may ask you to come back for additional imaging or follow-up tests. While it’s natural to feel worried, it’s important to remember that being called back doesn’t necessarily mean cancer; it simply means your care team wants a closer look.
Why You Might Be Called Back
- Image Clarity: Sometimes tissue overlaps, making the first image unclear.
- Dense Breast Tissue: This can make it harder to see certain areas.
- Small Changes: Radiologists may want a second view to compare.
In many cases, follow-up tests confirm that everything is normal.
Common Next Steps
If your provider recommends more testing, here’s what you might experience:
- Diagnostic Mammogram: A more detailed mammogram that focuses on the area of concern.
- Breast Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to take a closer look at breast tissue.
- MRI: Sometimes recommended for higher-risk patients or unclear images.
- Biopsy: If something unusual is found, a small tissue sample may be taken for testing.
Reassurance During the Process
Waiting for results can feel stressful, but remember:
- Most callbacks do not lead to a cancer diagnosis.
- Extra imaging helps your care team give you the most accurate answers.
- Early follow-up ensures that, if something is present, it can be treated as quickly and effectively as possible.
Your Primary Care Partner in Breast Health
Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) plays an important role in guiding you through the next steps after a mammogram. From explaining results to coordinating referrals with specialists, your PCP helps you understand your care plan and supports you through the process.
Convenient St. Mary’s Primary Care Locations
Our primary care providers are here to help you understand your individual risks, know when to get screened, and guide you through the process, with convenient locations across Northeast Georgia:
- Athens Internal Medicine Associates – Athens
- Community Internal Medicine of Athens – Athens
- Georgia Family Medicine – Watkinsville
- Good Samaritan Primary Care – Greater Greene County area
- Sacred Heart Primary Care – Greater Franklin County area
- St. Mary’s Family Medicine – Bogart
- St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates – Watkinsville/Oconee
- St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates on Chase – North Athens/Jackson/Madison
- St. Mary’s Primary Care – Athens
In addition, St. Mary’s Breast Health Center offers comprehensive care for breast cancer and other conditions that affect the breast, all in one convenient location. Learn more here.