From advanced diagnostic imaging to comprehensive cancer care, our team is here to give you exceptional treatment, guidance and support.

Our nurse practitioners, technologists radiologists and specialized breast surgeons are all in the same place, working together to provide the highest level of care. We also work directly with cancer specialists and reconstructive surgeons at our comprehensive Breast Health Center. No matter your needs, we’ll create the right treatment plan for you – and stay by your side the entire time.

Breast care usually starts around age 40 with a screening mammogram. Talk with your primary care doctor about any breast health issues you may have and at what age and frequency you should have a mammogram.

Typically, screening results are available within 24 hours. If results show something that your doctor wants to look at more in-depth (like an abnormality), they will call you. Then, a specially trained breast-imaging radiologist will review your imaging, and determine if additional testing is needed.

If results show something your doctor wants to look at more in-depth (like an abnormality), they’ll call you. A specially trained breast-imaging radiologist will then review your imaging and determine if additional testing is needed.

You’ll know the results of your diagnostic mammogram before you leave the hospital.

• Mammography: A mammogram is a preventive screening that checks for changes in the breast. Mammograms can be uncomfortable, but don’t be nervous. We’ll listen to how you’re feeling during the process and answer your questions and concerns.
• Diagnostic mammography: This looks more closely at a specific area of your breast. You’ll have this type of exam if you have a new symptom, such as a new lump, nipple discharge, thickening of the nipple or another concerning find on your mammogram.
• Ultrasound: This is used to tell the difference between a solid lesion and a fluid-filled lesion. This helps provide information if you need further care.
• Breast MRI: This type of screening is only used to screen patients at high risk for breast cancer. This includes people with a family history of breast cancer or who have had radiation to the chest. It can help in cancer diagnosis, treatment and management, too.
• Ductography: This is an injection of radio-opaque material into a breast duct to test breast discharge.
• Cyst aspiration: This procedure gets fluid using a small needle.
• Needle core breast biopsy: This procedure is done to get a core sample of tissue using a hollow needle. It may be stereotactic, MRI or ultrasound-guided.
• Needle localization This uses a thin wire to guide the surgeon to an abnormality in the breast.
• We also have diagnostic testing.

Your treatment may involve surgery, cancer care or both. If you need surgery, we’ll schedule it with one of our experienced breast surgeons. They’ll see you in our Breast Health Center within a week.

We also work closely with plastic surgeons, who will be a part of your care team if you need reconstructive surgery.

This works the same way if you need cancer care. We partner directly with our onsite cancer specialists. You’re always part of the decision-making process and can get care close to home.

Regardless of your treatment, our team will guide you through the process. A nurse practitioner will help you navigate your care pathway, from appointment scheduling to surgery or cancer care to post-treatment support.

Regions offers a monthly breast cancer support group for women diagnosed with breast cancer. You’ll be able to share concerns, experiences and feelings in a supportive, confidential environment. A nurse practitioner and a social worker run our support group.

Meet your care team

Our doctors, nurses, surgeons, genetics counselors and other specialists work together to give you the highest level of care.

We were Minnesota’s first health care system to use 3D imaging technology. Our 3D mammography helps us get a better look at dense breast tissues and other areas of concern. All of our imaging is 2D and 3D and is digital.

If you’re at high risk for breast cancer, you may be referred to our high-risk program. A nurse practitioner will evaluate you. And then we’ll set up a care plan that connects you with an oncologist and genetic counselor, if needed. This plan is shared with your primary care doctor so everyone’s working together to manage your future care needs.

Designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR)

• Be Pink Learn more about breast health, see where you can get breast screenings and find out about HealthPartners events.
• American Cancer Society: Non-Cancerous Breast Conditions
• American Cancer Society: Breast Cancer
• Breast pain and tenderness
• HealthPartners & Park Nicollet Breast Cancer Treatment

Our breast health team partners seamlessly with our oncology team. You’ll continue your care with nationally recognized cancer experts who will develop a treatment plan personalized to your specific needs.

Our skilled breast plastic surgeons work with your breast health care team to help you feel like your best self.