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A breast MRI uses contrast and a strong magnet to show breast tissue in detail. Learn when it's used alongside mammography and ultrasound, how to prepare and how Medicare applies.
Also called: MRI breast, breast MRI scan, contrast breast MRI
Find a clinic for your breast MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get a breast MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI. Breast MRI is a specialised exam, so check with the clinic that it offers it when you send your request.
MRI clinics on Radly
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What is a breast MRI?
A breast MRI is a sensitive test that looks at breast tissue after an injection of gadolinium contrast. It is used alongside mammography and ultrasound, not instead of them, for particular situations such as higher-risk screening or further assessment.
You lie face down on a padded table with your breasts resting in openings in a dedicated coil. A cannula is placed in your arm for the contrast injection. It is important to keep still, so staff will help you get comfortable before the scan starts.
Why your doctor might request a breast MRI
- Screening for people at high inherited risk, as advised by a specialist
- Further assessment after an unclear mammogram or ultrasound
- Checking breast implants for rupture
- Planning treatment for a known breast condition, as directed by your specialist
Breast MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your breast MRI
- If you still have periods, the clinic may ask you to book on particular days of your cycle
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire
- Tell the clinic about kidney problems or previous contrast reactions
- Bring previous mammogram, ultrasound and MRI images or reports
How long it takes: About 30–45 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Breast MRI attracts a Medicare rebate only for specific indications, such as certain higher-risk screening or assessment situations, generally on a specialist referral and on a Medicare-eligible machine. Other breast MRI is private. The clinic will confirm whether your referral is Medicare-eligible. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your breast MRI and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Breast MRI FAQs
Is breast MRI better than a mammogram?
It's a different tool. Breast MRI is very sensitive but is used for specific situations alongside mammography and ultrasound, not as a routine replacement.
Why does the timing of my cycle matter?
Hormonal changes can affect how breast tissue takes up contrast. Booking at the right time helps produce clearer results.
Is breast MRI covered by Medicare?
Only for specific indications, usually with a specialist referral. The clinic will confirm for your situation.
How do I book a breast MRI online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select MRI as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a breast MRI?
Appointments for MRI are usually 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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