Question 1

can a breast biopsy hurt?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Biopsy involves incising the skin and removing part of the breast tissue. The procedure does hurt but pain can be controlled and fear of pain should not keep you form getting the biopsy done if your doctor has recommended it.

Question 2

what happens during a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Sample removed: Three ways of doing a breast biopsy: direct, ultrasound, or stereotactic guidance. With all of these, the area of the skin is anesthetized, and then a needle is inserted into the lump/mass, the mechanism fired, and tissue is removed. It is usually 1 to 2 cm in length and 0.1 cm in width. The pathologist will interpret and give a result. Limited risk, limited complications. A straightforward test.

Question 3

how painful is it to have a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Not painful: There are 2 types of breast biopies.  One is minimally invasive where the area of interest is sampled by taking a few pieces of it and the other is surgical where the entire area of interest is removed.

The minimally invasive techniques are not painful.  You are awake and local anesthesia is used.  You can even drive yourself to and from the biopsy.

Question 4

what's recovery like after a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Depends on type : Most biopsies today should be needle biopsies (i.e. Core biopsies) which can generally be done in the office under local anesthetic usually with image (ultrasound or stereotactic) guidance.  Most patients do fine with over the counter medications with little or no restrictions (if it hurts, don't do it) and can resume usual activities right away.  A snug supportive bra provides additional comfort.

Question 5

what can i expect from getting a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

At an office: A core needle biopsy performed by ultrasound or mammogram(stereotactic).  It is performed by a surgeon or radiologist using local anesthesia in an office setting.  After numbing the skin & tissues, a small cut in made in the skin & a needle is inserted to take samples of tissue. Tape is used to close the skin. It should not be too painful, if so, let them know so they can give more anestetic.

Question 6

couldanyone tell me more about a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Less is Best: A biopsy is performed for definitive diagnosis of a breast abnormality found on exam, mammogram, and/or ultrasound.  This can almost-always be performed as a needle biopsy under local anesthesia at a doctor's office or breast center.  A surgical biopsy involves removing the abnormality under anesthesia in an or setting.  Since most biopsies are benign, the less invasive approach is usually best.

Question 7

what are some inherent risks of a breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

Bleeding,infection: This will depend on the type of biopsy you are getting.  A core needle biopsy has 2 main risks:  bleeding and infection .This is dependent on the type of needle used.  Prior to any procedure, the doctor and staff will explain the risks of the procedure.

Question 8

why does my husband not come to my breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

D/w your husband: I am afraid i can not answer that question.  You should discuss this with your husband and see what is his answer. If you ask him to come perhaps he will come.

Question 9

what is the most likely result of my breast biopsy?

Accepted Answer

No one  answer that: Except the doc who is doing your biopsy that doc can give u odds based on what the mammogram showed but the final result will be the biopsy which your doc should go over the results with u as soon as it is back.

Question 10

nervous about my breast biopsy help what should i do?

Accepted Answer

Tell Dr.: Let the physician know about your concerns. Education about the process can often allay fears. To diminish anxiety- breath in deeply through nostrils, hold air in lungs for a five count and then slowly exhale through an open mouth.

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Bilateral breast biopsy

A member asked:

Can a breast biopsy hurt?

A member asked:

What happens during a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

How painful is it to have a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

What's recovery like after a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

What can i expect from getting a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

Couldanyone tell me more about a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

What are some inherent risks of a breast biopsy?

A member asked:

Why does my husband not come to my breast biopsy?

A member asked:

What is the most likely result of my breast biopsy?

A member asked:

Nervous about my breast biopsy help what should i do?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?