It can feel briefly uncomfortable. The breast is gently compressed between two plates for a few seconds to get a clear image. Most women find it manageable and the whole scan takes only a few minutes.
Breast Clinic
Our breast clinic provides examination, breast ultrasound, and biopsy if needed all in a single visit.
No Referrals Required
Same-Day Ultrasound
Mammorgram When needed
Self-pay & Insured
Breast Clinic
Our breast clinic provides examination, breast ultrasound, and biopsy if needed all in a single visit.
No Referrals Required
Same-Day Ultrasound
Mammorgram When needed
Self-pay & Insured
- Home
- Specialities
- Breast Clinic
Your Breast Health is Our Priority
Our breast clinic provides specialist care for anyone with concerns about their breast health. We bring together an experienced team of breast surgeons, radiologists, and oncologists to deliver prompt, precise, and thorough assessments, to deliver fast, accurate and in-depth diagnosis, treatment planning and patient support.
When to Consider Visiting a Breast Clinic
You can refer yourself directly to our clinic for a prompt assessment if you're experiencing any of the following signs:
A firm area or unusual thickening in breast tissue.
Breasts look or feel different in size, shape, or contour.
Any unusual changes in the breast.
Persistent tenderness or unexplained discomfort or pain in the breast.
Dimpling, puckering or an orange-peel effect on skin.
Nipple changes, including turning inwards or unusual appearance.
Rash, redness, or irritation on the nipple or surrounding skin.
Discharge from the nipple, especially if blood-stained.
Localised thickening or a lump behind the nipple.
New swelling or lump in breast or underarm.
Areas of dense or unusually firm breast tissue.
A family history of breast cancer or known genetic risk factors (e.g. BRCA mutations).
What to Expect During Your Visit
- Consultation with a breast surgeon, including a physical examination
- Onsite ultrasound if indicated
Under 40 patients
- The patient will start with a consultation with one of our breast surgeons, including an ultrasound scan during the same visit.
- If a biopsy is required, in most cases it will be performed on the same day, with results available within 3–5 working days.
40+ patients
- For all women aged 40 and above, mammograms will be arranged off-site before the appointment, followed by a consultation with a breast surgeon and an ultrasound scan.
This approach ensures rapid evaluation and diagnosis in one appointment, helping to reduce stress and waiting times.
You may want to book sooner if you:
Have a parent, sibling, or child who has had breast cancer
Have been told you carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Have had a breast cyst, a biopsy, or an unusual change in the past
Simply want peace of mind
If you are at higher risk, your surgeon may also recommend an MRI scan alongside your breast check. They will talk this through with you at your appointment.
Breast Screening With No Symptoms
Most breast cancers are found in women who feel completely well. A routine breast screen is the best way to catch any changes early, when they are smaller and easier to treat. Private breast screening in London at LIPS Healthcare is open to any woman, at any age, with no GP referral and no waiting list.
Who should consider breast screening?
Breast screening is for any woman who wants to check that everything is okay. Most women are advised to start from age 40, but you can book at any time.
What does breast screening involve at LIPS?
You will see a specialist breast surgeon at our clinic in Turbine Hall B, Battersea Power Station, who will take your full history and recommend the right checks for you.
Latest Patient Reviews
Disclaimer
- Self-funding patients can book directly without needing a GP referral.
- Private medical insurance holders: Please contact your insurer before booking to clarify if they require a referral letter or authorisation.
FAQs
Annual mammograms are recommended for the best chance of early detection. Your breast surgeon at LIPS will advise on the right interval based on your age, breast density, and personal risk.
Yes. Let the clinic know when you book so your surgeon can plan the most appropriate imaging approach for you.
The scan itself takes around 10 to 15 minutes. Your full LIPS appointment, including the specialist consultation and ultrasound, typically takes around one hour.
No. You can book directly at LIPS Healthcare without a GP referral. Simply contact the clinic online or by phone to arrange your appointment.
From age 40 is the general recommendation for most women. If you have a family history of breast cancer or carry a BRCA gene, your doctor may advise starting earlier.
A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images and is the preferred first check for women under 40. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray and is the standard screening tool for women aged 40 and above. Your surgeon will recommend the right option for you.
Most appointments at LIPS take between 45 minutes and one hour, depending on the checks included on the day.