Most breast tumors are not cancerous, but the only way to know for sure is to do a biopsy. There are two main types of breast biopsy--by a needle or surgically. What to expect in a breast biopsy will differ depending on the procedure.
Needle Biopsy
There are several types of needle biopsies. Some are done with a fine needle, while others may use a larger core needle. A doctor will often use a sonogram, mammogram or MRI to guide the needle.
Surgical Biopsy
A surgical biopsy, often referred to as a lumpectomy, involves making a cut in the breast to remove a mass (or part of the mass). The surgeon may also remove surrounding tissue.
Anesthesia
A needle biopsy is usually done with local anesthesia that numbs the breast, though some patients request a sedative so they are more relaxed. A surgical biopsy is usually done with general anesthesia so you are completely asleep.
Samples
Regardless of the type of breast biopsy that is done, the goal is to take samples of the suspicious area. A pathologist will look at the samples under a microscope to determine if there are cancerous (malignant) cells.
Recovery
Recovery from a breast biopsy will vary from a day to a few weeks, depending on the type of biopsy, the size of the mass removed and whether or not additional lymph nodes or tissue is taken out.
Considerations
Discuss the different biopsy options with your doctor. Some breast biopsies must be done surgically because of the size or shape of the mass, while you may have a choice with others.
Tags: breast biopsy, done with, biopsy usually, biopsy usually done, biopsy will
