Coming in 2027 · San Diego County, CA
Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about the Vera Scan, your visit, and how Gentle works.
About the Vera Scan used by Gentle
The Vera Scan by Koning is a dedicated breast CT scanner, the only one of its kind in San Diego County. It creates a full 3D image of each breast without any compression, using a low-dose CT scan that takes only seconds per breast.
No. The Vera Scan requires zero compression. You simply lie face-down on a comfortable, padded platform while the scanner does its work. Most patients describe the experience as completely comfortable. If you have mobility issues, arthritis, or back pain, you would experience the same discomfort you normally would getting into a similar position. Our technician will be available to help in the room if you need assistance.
A mammogram compresses the breast between two plates to produce a flat, 2D image — and like any single flat picture, it can only show so much. The Vera Scan produces a complete 3D image that allows our radiologist to examine the breast from every angle, slice by slice, with nothing obscured. No compression, no discomfort, and minimal technician contact. The scan itself takes only seconds per breast.
Yes. The Vera Scan by Koning is FDA cleared for diagnostic breast imaging. It has been studied in peer-reviewed clinical research and is used at leading academic medical centers. Customary annual breast screening is under review by the FDA and clearance for use is expected soon.
The Vera Scan uses a low-dose protocol specifically designed for breast imaging. Unlike a conventional CT scan which images multiple organs at much higher energy levels. The Vera Scan directs a focused, low-energy beam exclusively to the breast. The result is a radiation dose comparable to a standard diagnostic mammogram.
Your Gentle visit
Yes. The Vera Scan is a prescription imaging study, which means you'll need a referral from a licensed provider. Visit our Patients page to download a referral form you can bring to your doctor.
Getting started is simple. Register your interest online, and when your referral is received, we will reach out by email and text to confirm and schedule your exam. Our online scheduling tool lets you choose a day and time that works for you — from your desktop, tablet, or mobile.
Most appointments take under 30 minutes from arrival to departure. The scan itself takes only seconds per breast. If your physician ordered a contrast study, plan for approximately one hour to allow time for contrast administration and a brief observation period afterward.
We recommend wearing a comfortable two-piece outfit. You'll be given a private space to change if needed. Please do not wear anything that has "bedazzling", rhinestones, buckles, rivets, or anything similar that could damage the Vera Scan surface that you will be lying on during your scan.
Your images will be reviewed by a board-certified radiologist with specialized expertise in breast imaging. A detailed report is typically sent to your referring provider within 1 to 2 business days.
Gentle Pricing & insurance
Dedicated breast CT is not yet covered by most insurance plans. We operate on a self-pay basis.
A standard Dedicated Breast CT is $399. With contrast, the cost is $575. We offer payment plans to help spread the cost over time, with the remaining amount due on your date of care. We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and CareCredit.
Please note that HSA/FSA are not eligible for advance payment plans under federal rules.
Gentle accepts Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) debit cards. Please note that HSA/FSA programs do not allow pre-payment. If you plan to use your HSA/FSA card, the full amount will be due on the day of service when you arrive. We recommend confirming eligibility with your HSA/FSAplan administrator before you schedule an appointment, as program rules vary. If your card is denied on the date of service, you'll have to provide alternate payment with a debit or credit card to proceed with the scan.
Gentle location & contact information
We love a good pun...and yes, we'll send you Gentle Reminders and follow-ups throughout the process to your email and text number. We hate spam as much as you do, and we will not sell your contact data to make a quick buck on marketing data. We will keep Gentle contacts to a minimum for what is necessary, helpful, and interesting - like the Annual Susan G. Komen breast health health walk in Balboa Park in November and volunteer opportunities in your area.
Gentle Breast Imaging is located in San Diego County, CA. Our exact address will be shared when we open. Join our list to be the first to know.
We are in our pre-opening phase currently. Sign up on our patient contact list and we’ll notify you as soon as we begin scheduling appointments. Licensed Medical Professionals can reach out to us by using the Contact Us form on the Healthcare Professionals page.
Ready to take the next step?
Join our list to be among the first to know when we open - and to receive updates about the Vera Scan and Gentle Reminders.