RADAR Breast Localization

Radar breast localization can help your surgeon precisely locate and surgically remove your breast abnormality, while helping to spare healthy tissue. A tiny metal reflector is implanted into the abnormal breast tissue. Your breast surgeon can detect this reflector during surgery to precisely pinpoint the abnormal tissue.

The procedure has several advantages, including:

  • It enables radiologists to pinpoint areas of concern that appear on your imaging studies, so your surgeon can remove the abnormal tissue.
  • It combines advanced imaging with precise tumor localization to remove breast lesions with as little disturbance to surrounding healthy breast tissue as possible.

Before You Arrive

  • Sometime before your scheduled breast surgery, you will have your radar breast localization procedure.
  • Please eat something before you arrive.
  • Take all your regular medicine.
  • Please bring a list of all medications you take, as well as their doses.
  • We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Please consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.
  • Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
  • Please wear a two-piece outfit.

After You Arrive

  • Upon arrival, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
  • After taking mammography or ultrasound images of your breast to confirm the location of the abnormal tissue for the implant, the radiologist will numb the area of your breast with a local anesthetic.
  • The radiologist will insert a localization needle, containing the implant, into your breast. Images are taken to confirm the position of the needle. The radiologist will then withdraw the needle, leaving the reflector in place.
  • A last mammogram is taken to confirm the placement of the implant.
  • The procedure will take about 30-60 minutes.

After Your Procedure

  • You may resume normal activities

Parking Information

If you are a patient with questions about this procedure, please call: 310-423-4336.