A private breast ultrasound-scan at Sonoworld evaluates breast lumps, areas of thickening, nipple discharge, and breast pain using high-resolution real-time imaging. No GP referral needed. Same-day appointments available at our Marylebone clinic.
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A breast ultrasound-scan uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the internal structures of the breast. It is the first-line imaging investigation for any palpable breast lump, area of thickening, or localised breast pain — and it is the preferred modality for women under 40, where breast tissue is typically too dense for mammography to provide reliable results.
Finding a lump in your breast is frightening. The uncertainty between noticing something and getting a clear answer is one of the most anxious periods a woman can experience. A private breast ultrasound-scan at Sonoworld removes that uncertainty quickly. You do not need a GP referral, appointments are available the same day, and you leave with a verbal explanation of findings and a written report.
At Sonoworld, breast ultrasound-scans are performed by Daniela Stan, a Consultant Ultrasound Practitioner with over 20 years of NHS and private experience in breast imaging. The clinic operates from 29 Weymouth Street, Marylebone, in accordance with CQC registration standards and NICE guidance on breast symptom investigation.
| Procedure | Breast ultrasound-scan (diagnostic) |
| Duration | 20–30 minutes |
| Preparation | None required |
| Radiation | None — uses sound waves only |
| Price | £235 (one breast) · £350 (both breasts) |
| Report | Written report included, same day |
| GP referral | Not required |
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Book Breast Ultrasound-ScanThe examination covers the full breast parenchyma, the nipple-areolar complex, and the axillary lymph nodes. Colour Doppler is used to assess vascularity within any identified lesion, which provides additional information about its nature.
| Structure Assessed | What the Scan Evaluates | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Breast parenchyma | Glandular tissue, fibrous stroma, fatty tissue distribution | Identifies areas of architectural distortion or abnormal density |
| Palpable lump | Size, shape, margins, echogenicity, posterior acoustic features | Differentiates solid from cystic lesions; characterises solid masses |
| Cysts | Simple, complicated, or complex cyst classification | Simple cysts are benign; complex cysts may require follow-up or aspiration |
| Solid masses | Fibroadenoma features vs suspicious morphology (irregular margins, posterior shadowing) | Guides decision on whether biopsy is required |
| Nipple-areolar complex | Subareolar ducts, periareolar tissue | Relevant for nipple discharge, periareolar lumps, and Paget’s disease evaluation |
| Axillary lymph nodes | Size, cortical thickness, fatty hilum preservation | Abnormal nodes may indicate lymphatic involvement |
| Colour Doppler | Vascularity within and around any identified lesion | Increased peripheral vascularity may indicate malignancy; avascular lesions are more likely benign |
| Breast implants | Implant integrity, peri-implant tissue, capsular contracture signs | Detects implant rupture, silicone leak, or peri-implant fluid collections |
Sonoworld uses the ACR BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) classification to grade findings. BI-RADS 1 and 2 indicate normal or benign findings. BI-RADS 3 indicates a probably benign finding requiring short-interval follow-up. BI-RADS 4 and 5 indicate suspicious or highly suspicious findings that warrant tissue sampling. Your written report will include the BI-RADS category and a clear explanation of what it means for your next steps.
Breast ultrasound-scan is appropriate for a wide range of presentations. It is the preferred imaging modality for women under 40 and is used alongside mammography in older women when a specific area requires further characterisation.
Any new or changing lump in the breast or axilla warrants imaging. Ultrasound determines whether the lump is a simple cyst (benign and fluid-filled), a fibroadenoma (solid but typically benign), or a lesion with features that require biopsy.
Cyclical breast pain is usually hormonal and benign. Non-cyclical, localised pain — particularly when associated with a tender area — benefits from imaging to exclude an underlying structural cause such as a cyst, abscess, or mass.
Spontaneous, unilateral, or blood-stained nipple discharge requires evaluation. Ultrasound assesses the subareolar ducts and periareolar tissue to identify duct ectasia, intraductal papilloma, or other causes.
Women with dense breasts (BI-RADS C or D density) have a higher background risk of breast cancer and a higher false-negative rate on mammography. Supplemental ultrasound-scan detects cancers that mammography misses in dense tissue, with studies showing an additional 3–4 cancers per 1,000 women screened.
Ultrasound is the first-line investigation for suspected implant rupture, peri-implant fluid, or capsular contracture. It visualises the implant shell, the surrounding tissue, and any silicone migration outside the capsule.
Women with a strong family history, BRCA1/2 gene variants, or prior breast cancer who are unable to undergo MRI can use ultrasound as a supplemental screening tool. It is also appropriate for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and cannot have mammography.
A rapidly enlarging lump, skin dimpling or puckering, nipple inversion that is new, redness or warmth over the breast, or swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. These symptoms require prompt evaluation. Same-day appointments are available at Sonoworld — call 020 3633 4902.
Each breast imaging modality has distinct strengths. Understanding the differences helps you and your clinician choose the most appropriate investigation for your specific situation.
| Feature | Breast Ultrasound-Scan | Mammography | Breast MRI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiation | None | Low-dose X-ray | None |
| Best for | Lumps, cysts, dense breasts, under 40s | Screening in women 40+, calcifications | High-risk screening, implant integrity, extent of disease |
| Dense breast performance | Excellent — not affected by density | Reduced sensitivity in dense tissue | Excellent |
| Calcification detection | Limited | Excellent | Moderate |
| Real-time guidance | Yes — can guide biopsy or aspiration | Stereotactic guidance only | MRI-guided biopsy (specialist centres) |
| Availability at Sonoworld | Yes — same-day | No | No |
| Price at Sonoworld | £235 (one) / £350 (both) | Not available | Not available |
Breast ultrasound-scan identifies solid masses and characterises their morphology — irregular margins, posterior acoustic shadowing, and increased vascularity on Doppler are features associated with malignancy. However, ultrasound cannot confirm a tissue diagnosis. If a suspicious lesion is found, a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy is required to determine whether it is benign or malignant. Sonoworld will advise on the appropriate referral pathway if a biopsy is indicated.
No preparation is required for a breast ultrasound-scan. You do not need to fast, restrict fluids, or follow any special dietary instructions beforehand.
Wear a two-piece outfit if possible — a top that can be removed easily is ideal. You will be asked to undress to the waist for the examination.
Avoid applying lotions, creams, or talcum powder to the breast area on the day of your appointment. These can interfere with ultrasound gel adhesion and image quality.
If you are premenopausal, the scan can be performed at any point in your cycle. There is no optimal timing for a diagnostic breast ultrasound-scan.
Bring any previous breast imaging reports, mammogram films, or GP letters if you have them. These help the sonographer contextualise current findings against prior imaging. If you are using private health insurance, bring your authorisation number.
From booking to receiving your report, the entire process is straightforward. Most patients leave the clinic with a clear answer and a written report the same day.
Choose your appointment time online at the booking page or call 020 3633 4902. Same-day appointments are usually available.
The clinic is at 29 Weymouth Street, Marylebone, W1G 7DB — a 5-minute walk from Regent’s Park and Great Portland Street stations.
Daniela will take a brief history — when you noticed the lump, any associated symptoms, your family history, and any previous breast imaging.
You lie on the examination couch. Ultrasound gel is applied and the probe is moved systematically across the breast tissue. Colour Doppler is used to assess vascularity in any identified lesion. The axillary lymph nodes are also assessed.
Daniela explains the findings as the scan progresses and provides a clear verbal summary at the end. You leave knowing what was found and what it means.
A detailed written report — including BI-RADS classification, measurements of any lesion, and recommended next steps — is sent to you the same day. You can share this with your GP or specialist.
All prices are all-inclusive. There are no hidden fees, no additional charges for the report, and no charge for Doppler assessment or axillary node evaluation.
Sonoworld accepts patients with AXA Health, AXA Global, Healix, and WPA private health insurance. If your policy requires pre-authorisation, obtain your authorisation number before booking and bring it to your appointment. Call 020 3633 4902 if you need help confirming your coverage.
Sonoworld holds a 4.7-star rating across 204 verified Google reviews. Here are a few words from patients who came for a breast ultrasound-scan.
I had been worried about a lump for weeks and couldn’t get an NHS appointment quickly enough. Daniela explained everything during the scan and I left knowing exactly what it was. The report arrived the same day.
— Anouska C., London
Since my first visit, Daniela has always been professional, thorough, and kind. I trust her completely with my breast check-ups. The clinic is calm and the results are always explained clearly.
— Russpa R., London
I have visited the clinic for a few years as a regular check-up and Daniela is always thorough and reassuring. She takes the time to explain what she is seeing on the screen, which makes a huge difference.
— Ivy I., London
I had a scan with Daniela and she was incredibly professional and reassuring throughout. She explained every step and made sure I understood the findings before I left. I would recommend Sonoworld without hesitation.
— Leila V., London
Consultant Ultrasound Practitioner · Sonoworld, Marylebone London
Daniela Stan is a London-based NHS and private Consultant Ultrasound Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in healthcare. She holds an MSc in Medical Ultrasound and a Medical Doctor Licence in Family Medicine from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, Bucharest. Her specialist areas include breast imaging, MSK, abdominal, gynaecology and obstetrics, small parts, and vascular ultrasound.
Daniela performs every breast ultrasound-scan at Sonoworld personally. Her approach combines clinical rigour with clear patient communication — she explains findings as the scan progresses, answers questions directly, and ensures every patient leaves with a clear understanding of their results. The written report she produces follows ACR BI-RADS classification standards and is suitable for sharing with a GP, oncologist, or breast surgeon.
This page was written by Daniela Stan and reflects current clinical practice guidelines including NICE guidance on breast symptom investigation (NG12) and the ACR Appropriateness Criteria for breast imaging.
No GP referral is required. You can book directly online or by calling 020 3633 4902. If you have a GP letter or previous imaging reports, bring them along as they help contextualise the findings — but they are not a prerequisite for booking.
A breast ultrasound-scan is painless. The probe is moved gently across the skin surface and there is no compression involved — unlike a mammogram. If you have a tender area, tell Daniela before the scan begins so she can be particularly gentle in that region.
Breast ultrasound-scan identifies and characterises masses — it can distinguish between a simple cyst (benign), a fibroadenoma (typically benign), and a lesion with suspicious features such as irregular margins, posterior shadowing, or increased vascularity on Doppler. However, it cannot provide a tissue diagnosis. If a suspicious lesion is identified, a fine needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy is required to confirm whether it is benign or malignant. Daniela will advise on the appropriate referral pathway if this is indicated.
Mammography uses low-dose X-rays and is the standard screening tool for women over 40. It is particularly good at detecting calcifications, which can be an early sign of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Breast ultrasound-scan uses sound waves, involves no radiation, and is the preferred modality for women under 40 (where breast tissue is too dense for mammography to be reliable), for evaluating a specific palpable lump, and for characterising an area seen on mammography. The two modalities are complementary — ultrasound does not replace mammography, and mammography does not replace ultrasound.
The appointment takes 20–30 minutes. Daniela will explain her findings verbally during and immediately after the scan. A detailed written report — including BI-RADS classification, lesion measurements, and recommended next steps — is sent to you the same day. You do not need to wait days or weeks for a result.
BI-RADS (Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System) is the standardised classification used to grade breast imaging findings. BI-RADS 1 means normal. BI-RADS 2 means a benign finding. BI-RADS 3 means probably benign — short-interval follow-up is recommended. BI-RADS 4 means suspicious — biopsy should be considered. BI-RADS 5 means highly suspicious for malignancy — biopsy is strongly recommended. Your report will include the BI-RADS category and a plain-English explanation of what it means for your next steps.
If you have a specific symptom in one breast — a lump, pain, or nipple discharge — a unilateral scan (one breast, £235) is appropriate. If you want a general breast health check, have symptoms in both breasts, have a family history of breast cancer, or are monitoring breast implants bilaterally, the bilateral scan (both breasts, £350) provides a complete assessment. Daniela can advise on which option is most appropriate when you call to book.
If an abnormality is identified, Daniela will explain what has been found during the scan and outline the recommended next steps. Depending on the BI-RADS classification, this may include a short-interval follow-up scan, referral for mammography, referral for fine needle aspiration (FNA), or referral for core needle biopsy. The written report will include a clear recommendation that you can take to your GP or specialist.
Yes. Breast ultrasound-scan uses sound waves and involves no ionising radiation, making it safe during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. It is the preferred imaging modality for breast symptoms in pregnant and lactating women, as mammography requires X-ray exposure. If you are breastfeeding, feeding or expressing before the appointment will make the examination more comfortable.
No. Ultrasound and mammography are complementary modalities. Mammography is superior for detecting microcalcifications — an early sign of DCIS — which ultrasound cannot reliably identify. Ultrasound is superior for evaluating palpable lumps, assessing dense breast tissue, and guiding interventional procedures. Women over 40 who are eligible for NHS breast screening should continue to attend their routine mammography appointments. A private breast ultrasound-scan at Sonoworld is an adjunct to, not a replacement for, that programme.
A unilateral breast ultrasound-scan (one breast) costs £235 at Sonoworld. A bilateral scan (both breasts) costs £350. Both prices are all-inclusive — the written report, Doppler assessment, axillary lymph node evaluation, and verbal explanation of findings are included at no additional charge. There are no hidden fees.
Yes. You are welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member to your appointment. Having someone with you can be reassuring, particularly if you are anxious about the findings. Please let us know when booking so we can ensure the room is prepared accordingly.
29 Weymouth Street
Marylebone
London W1G 7DB
Phone: 020 3633 4902
Email: info@sonoworld.co.uk
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