Breast Ultrasound for Men

Expert Doctor Scan & Diagnosis

Male Breast Ultrasound 

Breast changes in men can cause anxiety, especially when a lump or swelling is noticed.

While many people associate breast imaging with women, men can also experience a range of breast conditions.

A breast ultrasound offers a quick, accurate, and painless way to investigate these changes and provide clear answers.

International Ultrasound Services in London offers private breast ultrasound scans for men, performed by experienced sonographers and radiologists who combine medical expertise with a compassionate approach.

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Why Men Need Breast Ultrasound

The male breast contains a small amount of glandular tissue and fatty tissue.

Even though the structure is different from that of women, changes can still occur that require assessment.

Men may notice lumps, swelling, tenderness, or changes in the nipple area. In some cases, these symptoms are harmless and caused by benign conditions.

In other cases, they may be the first sign of something more serious, such as breast cancer.

Gynecomastia, which refers to the enlargement of male breast tissue, is one of the most common reasons men seek a breast ultrasound.

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reported that up to 65% of adolescent boys and 40% of adult men experience gynaecomastia at some point in their lives.

While usually benign, it can mimic the appearance of more serious conditions and often prompts imaging for reassurance.

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Conditions Detected by Male Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound for men can detect a wide range of conditions:

  • Gynecomastia: This benign enlargement of the glandular tissue often feels like a firm disc behind the nipple. Ultrasound can confirm its presence and rule out underlying abnormalities.

  • Fatty tissue changes: Men with a higher proportion of fat in the chest area may develop soft lumps, which ultrasound can distinguish from solid growths.

  • Cysts and abscesses: Fluid-filled cysts or pockets of infection can form and cause discomfort. Ultrasound clearly shows whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled.

  • Lipomas: These are benign fatty lumps that appear soft and mobile. Ultrasound confirms their benign nature.

  • Male breast cancer: Although rare, male breast cancer is a serious condition. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 833 men will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Ultrasound helps detect suspicious lesions that require further investigation.

  • Trauma or post-surgical changes: Injuries to the chest can cause bruising, hematomas, or scar tissue. Ultrasound provides clarity in such cases.

Benefits of Breast Ultrasound in Men

Breast ultrasound offers several clear benefits for men who experience breast symptoms.

The scan is painless, non-invasive, and does not involve radiation.

Unlike mammography, which can be uncomfortable, ultrasound is quick and well tolerated.

It provides immediate results, allowing the sonographer to explain the findings in real time.

One of the greatest advantages is the ability of ultrasound to distinguish between solid and cystic lumps.

Studies published in Radiology have shown that ultrasound achieves high diagnostic accuracy in differentiating these lesions, which often reduces the need for unnecessary procedures.

The scan can also guide fine-needle aspiration or core biopsies when a sample of tissue is needed.

How the Scan is Performed

A male breast ultrasound scan is straightforward. You will be asked to lie on the examination couch with your upper body uncovered. A small amount of water-based gel is applied to the chest, and the sonographer moves the ultrasound probe across the area of concern. The gel helps the sound waves pass through the skin and produce clear images on the screen.

The procedure usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Both breasts are examined if needed, and the area around the lump, nipple, or armpit may also be assessed. The sonographer explains the findings as the scan progresses. In most cases, you will leave the clinic with a clear understanding of the results.

Preparation for the Scan

No special preparation is required before a male breast ultrasound. It is helpful to wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the chest. You will not need to fast or avoid any medications before the scan.

What Happens After the Scan

At International Ultrasound Services, results are explained immediately after the scan. If the findings are completely normal, this will provide reassurance straightaway. If something unusual is detected, the sonographer will discuss the next steps. This may include a referral to your GP, a breast specialist, or arranging further imaging or a biopsy.

All scans are documented with a detailed report, which can be shared with your doctor or specialist if further evaluation is required.

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Male Breast Cancer and the Role of Ultrasound

Male breast cancer accounts for about 1% of all breast cancers. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology highlighted that late diagnosis is a common problem, as men often delay seeking medical advice. This makes timely imaging essential.

Ultrasound plays an important role in the early detection of male breast cancer. It can identify suspicious solid masses, irregular tissue patterns, or changes beneath the nipple. When combined with a biopsy, ultrasound provides a definitive diagnosis. While mammography may sometimes be requested, ultrasound is often the first-line investigation for men.

Comparison with Other Imaging Methods

Mammography is less commonly used in men because male breast tissue is usually smaller and easier to evaluate with ultrasound. Ultrasound provides superior detail in assessing palpable lumps and allows dynamic assessment of blood flow when Doppler is used. MRI scans are rarely required in men but may be recommended in complex cases or for staging confirmed cancers.

Biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, but ultrasound guides the process by accurately targeting the suspicious area.

Who Should Have a Breast Ultrasound

Any man who notices a lump or swelling in the breast should consider having a breast ultrasound. Other reasons to book include:

  • Pain or tenderness in the chest or breast area.

  • Changes in the nipple, such as inversion, discharge, or scaling.

  • Persistent swelling or asymmetry between the two sides.

  • A family history of breast cancer.

  • Hormone-related conditions that increase the risk of breast tissue changes.

A study published in the British Medical Journal found that men with BRCA2 gene mutations have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. For these individuals, early imaging when symptoms appear is particularly valuable.

Cost and Booking Information

At International Ultrasound Services in London, a private breast ultrasound for men is offered at a transparent price of £189. The scan can be booked directly without the need for a GP referral. Same-day appointments are often available, making it easy to access reassurance quickly.

Booking can be completed online or by calling the clinic directly.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is breast ultrasound only for women?
No, men can also benefit from breast ultrasound when they notice changes in their breast tissue.

How accurate is breast ultrasound for detecting cancer in men?
Ultrasound is highly effective at identifying suspicious lesions. A study in Radiology confirmed its strong diagnostic accuracy, especially when combined with biopsy.

Do men need mammograms as well?
In some cases, mammography may be requested, particularly if there is a strong family history of breast cancer. However, ultrasound is usually the first choice for men.

Is the scan painful?
No. The procedure is painless and well tolerated.

How soon are the results available?
Results are provided immediately after the scan, and a detailed report is prepared for your records.

Location and Contact Information

International Ultrasound Services
5a Lucerne Mews, London,
W8 4ED,
Greater London,
United Kingdom.

Accessibility: The clinic is on the ground floor and, therefore, has wheelchair accessible entrance.

Nearest tube: Notting Hill Gate
Telephone: 0203 051 6506 or 0753 929 0816
E-mail: info@iuslondon.co.uk

Ultrasound Appointment Bookings:

Monday – Friday: 9 am-8 pm
Saturday: 10 am-1 pm
Sunday: Subject to Availability

Directions:

Google Maps.

The International Ultrasound Services clinic is located three minutes walk from Notting Hill Gate tube station in London, United Kingdom.

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Book Your Breast Scan Today

Take control of your breast health with expert care from International Ultrasound Services in London.

Our patient-focused approach, combined with advanced technology and specialist expertise, ensures you receive the highest quality breast ultrasound service in London

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Call to Book: 0203 051 6506

Only £189 (£39 deposit required)

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