What Solis Mammography Is

Solis mammography is a type of 3D breast imaging technology that creates layered pictures of breast tissue instead of the flat, two-dimensional images from traditional mammography. The machine takes multiple X-ray images at different angles, and computer software reconstructs them into a three-dimensional map. This approach lets radiologists see through overlapping tissue layers that might hide or mimic cancer on a standard mammogram.

Solis is one brand name for what the medical field calls digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT). Other manufacturers make similar systems under different names. The technology has been in use since the FDA cleared it for clinical practice in 2011, and it is now offered at many imaging centers, hospitals, and breast clinics alongside or instead of traditional 2D mammography.

The physical experience of a Solis mammogram is nearly identical to a standard mammogram — you still stand at the machine, your breast is still compressed between two plates, and the appointment still takes about 20 to 30 minutes. The main difference is that the imaging arm moves in an arc above your breast during the scan, rather than taking a single snapshot.

Key Takeaways

  • Solis mammography takes 3D images of breast tissue by capturing multiple angles and reconstructing them with computer software, which can reveal cancers that overlap tissue might hide on a flat 2D image.
  • The appointment feels similar to a standard mammogram — compression, positioning, and timing are roughly the same — but the imaging arm moves during the scan instead of staying still.
  • Solis uses a slightly higher radiation dose than 2D mammography alone, though the total remains well below levels known to cause harm.
  • Insurance coverage varies by plan and by whether the scan is screening (routine) or diagnostic (investigating a specific concern), so check with your insurer before your appointment.
  • Not all imaging centers offer Solis; ask your doctor or call ahead to confirm the technology is available at your chosen facility.

How the Solis Scan Actually Works

During a Solis mammogram, you position your breast on the lower plate just as you would for a standard mammogram. The technologist compresses your breast with the upper plate to hold it still and flatten the tissue. Then, instead of taking one or two static images, the imaging arm sweeps across your breast in a smooth arc — typically covering about 50 degrees — while taking multiple low-dose X-ray images.

The entire sweep takes only a few seconds. A computer then processes all those individual images and stacks them into thin virtual "slices" through your breast, similar to how a CT scanner works. A radiologist can then scroll through these slices on a computer screen, looking at each layer of tissue separately. This layering eliminates the problem of overlapping tissue that can obscure a small cancer or create a false shadow on a 2D image.

Most centers that offer Solis perform both the 3D scan and a standard 2D mammogram in the same appointment. The 2D images serve as a backup and are useful for certain types of analysis. Some facilities use software that creates a synthetic 2D image from the 3D data, which reduces the total radiation dose slightly.

Radiation Dose and Safety Considerations

Solis mammography delivers more radiation than a standard 2D mammogram alone — typically about 1.5 to 2 times the dose. However, the absolute amount remains small. A single Solis mammogram exposes you to roughly the same radiation you receive from natural background sources over several weeks or months, depending on where you live.

The FDA and the American College of Radiology have reviewed the safety data and cleared Solis for routine screening use. The benefit of catching cancers earlier generally outweighs the small increase in radiation risk, especially for women over 40 or those with risk factors for breast cancer. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, tell your technologist before the scan — mammography is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless there is a specific medical reason.

If you have had multiple mammograms or other imaging tests in a short period, mention that to your doctor or technologist. They can help you decide whether additional imaging is necessary right now or can wait.

What Insurance Typically Covers

Coverage for Solis mammography depends on your specific insurance plan and whether the scan is screening (routine, with no symptoms) or diagnostic (investigating a lump, pain, or abnormal finding). Many insurance plans cover screening mammography at no cost to you under the Affordable Care Act, but some plans do not yet cover 3D mammography as a screening tool, or they cover it only for certain age groups or risk profiles.

Diagnostic mammography — ordered by a doctor to investigate a specific concern — is often covered differently than screening. Some plans cover diagnostic Solis the same way they cover diagnostic 2D mammography. Others may require you to pay a higher copay or coinsurance for the 3D version.

The best approach is to contact your insurance company before your appointment and ask whether Solis mammography is covered under your plan. Provide your plan number and ask specifically whether coverage differs between screening and diagnostic scans. If your insurance does not cover Solis, ask the imaging center about their cash price — it typically ranges from $100 to $400 more than a standard mammogram, though prices vary widely by region and facility.

Finding a Facility That Offers Solis

Solis mammography is not available everywhere. Large hospitals, academic medical centers, and dedicated breast imaging clinics are more likely to have the equipment than small urgent care centers or general radiology practices. If your doctor recommends a mammogram, ask whether they have a facility in mind that offers Solis, or ask your primary care doctor for a referral to a breast imaging center.

You can also search online for "Solis mammography near me" or "3D mammography [your city]" to find centers in your area. When you call to schedule, confirm that the facility has Solis equipment and that it is available on the dates that work for you. Some centers use Solis for all mammograms, while others offer it only on certain days or for certain types of scans.

If Solis is not available locally and you want it, ask your doctor whether it is medically necessary for your situation. If it is, your doctor may be able to refer you to a facility further away or help you understand whether a standard mammogram would be sufficient.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Preparation for a Solis mammogram is the same as for any mammogram. Wear a two-piece outfit so you can remove only your top. Avoid scheduling during the week before your period if your breasts are typically tender — compression will be more uncomfortable. Do not wear deodorant, antiperspirant, powder, or lotion on your chest or underarms on the day of your appointment, as these products can interfere with image quality.

Bring your insurance card and photo ID. If this is your first mammogram at this facility, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete paperwork. If you have had a mammogram elsewhere in the past year or two, ask whether those images are available — the imaging center may be able to retrieve them for comparison, which helps radiologists spot changes.

Let the technologist know if you have breast implants, a history of breast surgery, or significant breast pain. These factors may affect how the technologist positions you or how the radiologist interprets the images.

What Happens After Your Scan

A radiologist reviews your Solis images, usually within a few business days. The imaging center will send a report to your doctor and may also send you a summary letter. If the scan is normal, you will typically receive a letter saying so, and your doctor will discuss next steps — usually a routine screening mammogram the following year.

If the radiologist finds something that needs further investigation, your doctor will contact you to discuss the next step, which might be an ultrasound, a follow-up mammogram in a few months, or a biopsy. Do not panic if you receive a call for follow-up imaging — many findings turn out to be benign, and follow-up is a standard part of the screening process.

You have the right to request a copy of your images and the radiologist's report. Some facilities provide these on a CD or through a patient portal. Having copies is useful if you move, change doctors, or want a second opinion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Solis mammography better than a standard mammogram?

Solis can detect some cancers that a standard 2D mammogram might miss, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Studies show it reduces false alarms (callbacks for additional imaging) compared to 2D alone. However, it is not perfect — no screening test catches every cancer. Whether it is "better" for you depends on your age, breast density, risk factors, and what your doctor recommends.

Does Solis mammography hurt more than a regular mammogram?

The compression feels the same because your breast is held in the same position. The scan itself takes slightly longer because the imaging arm moves through its arc, but most women report the experience is comparable to a standard mammogram. If you have had a painful mammogram before, let your technologist know — they can sometimes adjust positioning or compression to improve comfort.

Can I get Solis if I have breast implants?

Yes, but the technologist will need to know about your implants before the appointment. Implants can make imaging more challenging because they take up space and can obscure breast tissue. The technologist may use special positioning or additional views. Solis can actually be helpful in this situation because the 3D images allow the radiologist to see around the implant more effectively than 2D images do.

How often should I have a Solis mammogram?

Screening frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and what medical organizations recommend. Most guidelines suggest annual or biennial (every two years) screening for average-risk women starting at age 40 or 50. Your doctor will discuss what schedule makes sense for you based on your personal and family history.

What if my insurance does not cover Solis?

You have several options: pay out of pocket if the cost is manageable for you, ask your doctor whether a standard mammogram is sufficient for your situation, or ask the imaging center whether they offer a discount for uninsured or out-of-pocket patients. Some facilities have financial information programs or payment plans available.