What to expect from a breast biopsy procedure

If you've had a mammogram or other scan that's detected an unusual lump or mass in your breast, you'll be referred to have a biopsy. A biopsy is a routine diagnostic procedure that involves taking a small sample of cells and looking at them under the microscope to see what they are.

During the course of the last few years, I've had my fair share of breast biopsies. And you won't be surprised to learn that there are a couple of different types - needle and surgical. Most are performed with a needle, that's inserted into the mass usually using either mammogram or ultrasound technology to guide it and make sure that the cells are being taken are from the mass and not the surrounding area.

If you're having the biopsy under mammogram, you'll have your breast flattened between the mammogram plates first. This will enable your radiographer to see the mass clearly, and get an accurate biopsy first time.

🩷 a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before the biopsy is taken
🩷 your radiology team will talk you through each step before it happens
🩷 the actual biopsy part takes just seconds and will be over before you know it
🩷 mine sounded and felt a lot like a staple gun, but the LA means I didn't feel the sample being taken
🩷 in some cases, it's recommended to have several biopsies taken
🩷 the area will have a dressing placed over it, but it'll heal pretty fast
🩷 it's important to rest after, as it's both an emotional and physical experience
🩷 take some over the counter pain relief later in the day if you need to
🩷 keep talking to people you trust while you're waiting for your results - the wait is always the worst bit

After your biopsy your sample will be sent to a lab to be analysed, which will determine if the mass is benign or cancerous, and other important information that will help your healthcare provider decide what steps to take next.

DON'T PANIC! Studies suggest that as many as 80% of breast biopsies come back as benign (non-cancerous). But any lump or bump should always get checked out.

Still got questions about breast biopsies? Feel free to drop them in the comments, or send me a message using the contact form.

D x