Guide:
- What Is a Breast MRI and When Is It Used?
- How Long Does the MRI Procedure Take?
- What Affects the Duration of Your MRI?
- When Will I Receive My Breast MRI Results?
- Preparing for Your Visit
If you’ve been referred for a breast MRI, you’re probably wondering: How long is this going to take, and what can I expect? From preparation to after the scan, the process is less confusing and faster than most people expect.
At Little Silver Mammography and HerSpace, we provide leading-edge breast imaging in a serene, supportive environment. Scheduling your first scan or follow-up imaging? What to expect follows.
What Is a Breast MRI and When Is It Used?
A breast MRI is a non-invasive imaging test that uses strong magnets and radio waves, not radiation, to create detailed images of the breast.
When is a breast MRI used?
- Extra screening for dense breasts
- High-risk patients, such as those with BRCA gene mutation or a strong family history
- Abnormal mammogram or ultrasound follow-up
- Pre-surgical planning or treatment follow-up
- Implant or scar tissue assessment
MRI is useful when routine mammograms might miss small or occult lesions. Need full breast cancer screening in New Jersey?
Learn more about our MRI procedure here.
How Long Does the MRI Procedure Take?
The actual scan time within the MRI machine usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on your individual imaging order.
If your doctor orders a contrast breast MRI, the whole appointment might take longer, usually around 60 to 90 minutes from arrival to completion. These are the items included:
- Prep and paperwork: ~15 minutes
- IV placement and contrast injection: ~10–15 minutes
- Scanning time: 20–45 minutes
- Wrap-up and discharge: 5–10 minutes
Contrast is almost always required with scanning for the detection of cancer because it makes abnormal tissue stand out more.
What Affects the Duration of Your MRI?
Most breast MRIs are equal in duration, but some factors that could impact your appointment duration are:
- Use of contrast dye: Adds time for IV prep and extra enhanced image sequences
- Body movement during scanning: May require reimaging
- Facility experience and scheduling efficiency: Experienced, well-coordinated staff keep things moving along
At Little Silver HerSpace, we focus on keeping your visit streamlined, without compromising on comfort or quality.
When Will I Receive My Breast MRI Results?
Most patients receive their breast MRI results within 24 to 48 hours. Your report is read by a radiologist, then forwarded to your referring physician.
In some cases, we also offer same-day breast MRI consults in NJ and second opinion services. If you have questions about your results or require a follow-up plan, we can help.
Preparing for Your Visit
This is the way to make your MRI experience as stress-free and efficient as possible:
- Metal accessories: Avoid zippers, underwire bras, and jewelry
- Tell us about implants, allergies, or kidney disease
- Loose, metal-free clothes to wear
- Bring along any previous imaging CDs or reports, if you have them
- Schedule between days 6–16 of your menstrual cycle (if premenstrual) for optimum imaging clarity
If you need contrast, we’ll ask questions to make sure it is safe for you.
Schedule Your Breast MRI in New Jersey
Regardless of where you live, advanced imaging care is closer than you think.
We’ve proudly served Monmouth County for over 30 years with a reputation built on precision, compassion, and clinical excellence.
Little Silver Mammography and HerSpace
(732) 530-5555
Schedule your MRI or contact us today
Still Have Questions?
Getting an MRI can feel intimidating, but you’re not alone. If you’d like to speak with someone directly or schedule a consultation, our team is here to help every step of the way.
