Annual screening - mammogram vs mri

I can't comment from a decision perspective as I was invasive carcinoma. I have mets now and still get a mammogram and ultrasound every year because I still could get another breast cancer. If you have dense breast tissue i would ask your dr for annual checks. However regardless talk to your dr about which will give you the best reading and assurance for your situation.

Hello aj456,

Mammogram with contrast or MRI with contrast are usually used for those with dense breasts. 

In my case, nothing could be seen in the mammogram even when a 7cm lump could be seen and felt! 

It was the MRI that showed how extensive the disease was and confirmed the need for a mastectomy, so I was glad I pushed for it. 

I have a 3d mammogram on my good side & ultrasound every year and then an MRI every two years. My doctor is hesitant to do the MRI more often as he says too much 'contrast'(or dye),can cause Parkinson's. 

Every treatment option has risks so it's about weighing those up. Have a discussion with your doctor and if your gut tells you that you need an MRI , ask for it. 

Always keep up your regular self checks too.. I've had two recurrences & it's the self checks that did more for me than any scans have! 

HiEsjay my surgeon and oncologist discussed my annual monitoring with me taking into account various risk factors and recommended an ultrasound and 3D mammogram  (tomography). The relevant factors for them included the pathology results from samples taken after neo adjuvant chemotherapy and targeted therapy and surgery, further chemotherapy after surgery, my cancer type (invasive lobular cancer) and not having dense breasts.