Diagnostic vs. Screening Mammogram

I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma 2 years ago.  I had lumpectomy.

I recently had my 1-year mammogram.  Am I supposed to be getting a diagnostic mammogram once a year or a screening mammogram?  I am confused because after I returned home I realized that only 2 pictures were taken of each breast.  By definition, aren't more than 2 pictures of each breast taken during a diagnostic mammogram?  I thought only 2 were taken for a screening mammogram.  I thought, because I had BC that I should be having a diagnostic.

Thanks for your help.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear elle53:  In most cases, the purpose of a diagnostic mammogram is to further clarify an area of abnormality on a screening mammogram or to evaluate a lump or other new findings.  Sometimes after breast surgery or breast cancer a diagnostic mammogram may be ordered so that it will be read immediately by the radiologist who would then be prepared to obtain additional images or ultrasound if necessary but often times the two standard views are sufficient. In most cases, follow up after breast cancer can be done with a screening mammogram.  If you are concerned, you might discuss this, as it relates to you, with your physician.