Biopsy

Breast Biopsy: What to Expect

A breast biopsy is a procedure used to remove a small sample of breast tissue so it can be examined under a microscope. It is often recommended when a mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, or physical exam shows an area that needs a closer look. A biopsy is the only way to determine whether a suspicious breast change is benign or cancerous.

Most breast biopsies are performed using a needle and image guidance, such as ultrasound, mammography, or MRI. This helps the care team precisely locate the area being tested and collect the tissue sample with accuracy.

Why a Breast Biopsy May Be Recommended

Your provider may recommend a breast biopsy if imaging or an exam shows:

• A lump or mass in the breast
• Calcifications seen on a mammogram
• Changes in breast tissue that need further evaluation
• An area of concern seen on ultrasound or MRI
• Changes in the skin, nipple, or breast appearance
• A finding that cannot be fully explained through imaging alone

It is important to remember that needing a biopsy does not automatically mean you have breast cancer. Many breast biopsies show benign, or non-cancerous, changes.

Types of Breast Biopsy

The type of biopsy recommended depends on the location, size, and appearance of the area being evaluated.

Core Needle Biopsy

A core needle biopsy uses a hollow needle to remove small samples of breast tissue. This is one of the most common types of breast biopsy and is often used when breast cancer is suspected. The biopsy may be guided by ultrasound, mammography, or MRI.

Stereotactic Breast Biopsy

A stereotactic biopsy uses mammogram images taken from different angles to guide the needle to the exact area of concern. This type of biopsy is often used for findings that are visible on a mammogram, such as calcifications, but may not be felt during an exam.

Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy

An ultrasound-guided biopsy uses sound-wave imaging to guide the needle to the area being tested. This approach is often used when the area of concern can be seen clearly on ultrasound.

MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy

An MRI-guided biopsy may be recommended when an area of concern is seen best on breast MRI. MRI images help guide the biopsy needle to the correct location.

Surgical Biopsy

In some cases, a surgical biopsy may be needed to remove part or all of the area of concern. This is less common than needle biopsy and is typically recommended only when more tissue is needed or when needle biopsy is not the best option.

What Happens During a Breast Biopsy

Before the biopsy, your care team will explain the procedure and answer your questions. In many cases, the breast is numbed with local anesthesia to help keep you comfortable. Imaging may be used during the procedure to guide the needle to the correct area.

Once the tissue sample is collected, it is sent to a lab where a pathologist examines it under a microscope. A small marker clip may be placed at the biopsy site so the area can be identified on future imaging. This marker is very small and usually cannot be felt.

After the Biopsy

After a breast biopsy, you may have mild soreness, swelling, or bruising near the biopsy site. Your care team will give you instructions on how to care for the area, when to remove bandages, and when you can return to normal activities.

You may be asked to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a short time. Most patients are able to return to many normal activities soon after the procedure, but you should follow the specific instructions given by your care team.

Contact your provider if you experience heavy bleeding, worsening pain, signs of infection, fever, or swelling that does not improve.

Understanding Your Results

Biopsy results usually take a few days, though some results may take longer depending on the type of testing needed. Your care team will review the pathology report and explain what the results mean.

Results may show:

• Benign breast changes
• High-risk breast changes that may need closer monitoring or additional treatment
• Breast cancer or another condition that requires follow-up care

If your biopsy shows cancer, your care team will discuss the next steps with you. This may include additional imaging, surgery consultation, treatment planning, or supportive care resources.

Questions to Ask Your Care Team

Before or after your breast biopsy, you may want to ask:

• What type of biopsy am I having?
• Why is this biopsy being recommended?
• Will imaging be used to guide the biopsy?
• How should I prepare?
• What should I expect afterward?
• When will I receive my results?
• Who will explain the results to me?
• What are the next steps if the results are benign?
• What are the next steps if the results show cancer?

We’re Here to Help

A breast biopsy can feel stressful, but it is an important step in understanding your breast health. At New Mexico Cancer Center, our team is here to help guide you through the process, answer your questions, and support you through each step of evaluation and care.