Understanding Mammogram Calcifications: What You Need to Know

Question
I recently went to for my annual mammogram.  I received a call from my gyn a week later and he said there were calcifications in both breasts which I didn't have last year.  He said they are few, scattered, and appear benign.  The radiologist recommended a 6 month follow-up mammogram.  My doctor wants to me get a second opinion from a surgeon, just to error on the side of caution.  Since I've never had an abnormal mammogram until now, I'm scared.  I have an appointment in 3 weeks with the surgeon.  I'm 50 years old, in perimenopause, and have no family history of breast cancer.  My questions are:  1) do calcifications sometimes just "show up" for no reason as one ages and 2) is it worse that they showed up in both breasts.

Answer
1. Yes that can happen. 2. No. Though I can not guarantee anything it is probable from your description that what you have is benign and not dangerous. Even more and better information can be obtained if your dr. sends you for breast MRI scans of both your breasts! Good luck!