Question 1

Does thermography replace a mammogram?

Accepted Answer

No - each test sees different breast health characteristics. A mammogram is an anatomical test (a breast x-ray) that looks for masses in the breast tissue, while a thermogram is a physiological test that looks for changes in blood vessel circulation within the breast. Breast thermography is a test to assess breast health and monitor dietary and lifestyle changes.

In NZ, the National Screening Unit currently recommends that women aged 45 and over have screening mammograms every two years. BreastScreen Aotearoa offers free mammograms for women in the 45 to 69 eligible age range. For more information click here.

Question 2

Is there a best time to have breast thermography?

Accepted Answer

You can start as early as you like because the accuracy of thermal  imaging isn’t affected by breast density. It’s a good idea to have a  baseline thermogram before your first pregnancy. It can be used to  compare back to at any time in your life.

Question 3

Is there an ideal time to book my appointment?

Accepted Answer

If  you are still having monthly cycles your appointment is best scheduled  in the first 15 days before pre-menstrual breast changes occur. If you  are post menopausal you can schedule your appointment anytime.

Question 4

Is breast thermography safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, thermography is a safe, non-invasive, non-contact test with no radiation. Thermography simply creates a thermal image of your breasts by measuring the heat emitted naturally by the body. Thermography is approved by the FDA and has been used in the United States and Europe for over 30 years alongside mammography.

Question 5

Can thermography diagnose breast cancer?

Accepted Answer

No. Thermography identifies abnormal physiological changes in your breasts. Mammography, a type of x-ray, identifies certain structures in the breast that can potentially be cancer. With both mammography and thermography, definitive diagnosis can only be obtained through other procedures such as a biopsy.

Question 6

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Please see our Pricing page. Our prices cover the initial imaging appointment, the analysis of the scans, and a full written report. Phone support and referrals to other services is also included if you need.

Question 7

I have breast implants - is thermography safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes, breast implants do not interfere with thermography. Breast thermography is painless and safe, using no radiation or compression. It can be used effectively and safely for all women including pregnant or nursing women, women with dense breast tissue and women with breast implants.

Question 8

What does the procedure involve?

Accepted Answer

After disrobing from the waist up, you sit in a temperature controlled room (approximately 20°C). A  number of images of the breasts are taken from different angles there  is then a resting period of 10 minutes before the next set of images are  taken.

There is no contact with the breasts at any stage during the procedure. These images are then analysed and sent to you 2 to 21 working days following your appointment. All of our appointments are with female technicians.

It is a good idea to wear a skirt, trousers or shorts to your appointment, so you can remove your top separately.

Check out What to Expect

Question 9

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

Accepted Answer

No, a referral is not necessary.

Question 10

How often do I need a thermogram?

Accepted Answer

This  depends on the results of your first thermogram. With no abnormal  indications and depending on your age, we will generally recommend an  annual thermogram. If your scan shows changes, or a contra-lateral imbalance of significant heat, depending on the level of risk, you will be advised to have a follow up appointment sooner.

Question 11

Is thermography useful for other body parts?

Accepted Answer

Because  the camera measures the heat as it is reflected off the body, it’s not  as sensitive for any organs deep inside the body. The heat from them is  masked by the body tissue that covers it. Thermal imaging does not  penetrate into body tissues. (One of the reasons it is so safe).

Types of heat/inflammation that are obvious on the surface:
- dental infection
- sinus infection
- thyroid, kidney
- muscular
- varicose veins
- joint inflammation

It  is because the breasts are superficial and relatively cooler, that  thermography is useful to detect breast disease and indications of  cancer. The blood vessels that supply a tumour are not normal breast  blood vessels, they have a different metabolic signature. Thermography  is not reliable for detecting indications of cancer in internal organs or skin cancers.