Breast Biopsy
Compassionate and expert breast biopsy care
Understanding Breast Biopsy
A breast biopsy is a procedure to remove a small sample of breast tissue for testing. This can help determine if there are any signs of breast cancer or other issues. Our team at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) offers several types of biopsies, ensuring precise and safe care.
What is a Breast Biopsy?
A breast biopsy involves removing a tissue sample from the breast to check for any abnormalities. This might be recommended after a screening test, such as a mammogram, breast ultrasound or breast MRI. The biopsy tissue sample is analyzed by specially trained pathologists in our laboratory to provide accurate results.
How to Prepare for a Breast Biopsy
Preparing for a breast biopsy is important for a smooth experience. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid using deodorant or lotion on the day of the procedure. Bring any necessary medical information with you. If you need more details, learn what you can expect during your first appointment.
More About Breast Biopsy
We offer several safe and accurate breast biopsy procedures. These minimally invasive approaches help ensure a quick breast biopsy recovery time and reliable results.
Ultrasound-Guided Core Breast Biopsy
This procedure uses ultrasound to guide a core needle to the area of concern in the breast. It is effective for sampling breast lumps and other abnormalities found during an ultrasound exam.
During an ultrasound-guided biopsy, you will lie on your back or side. The area of concern in the breast will be numbed, and a small cut will be made. Using ultrasound images, the doctor will guide the needle to the abnormal area and remove a tissue sample.
The tissue sample is sent to our lab for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days. You can view your biopsy test results in your patient portal.
Stereotactic Core Breast Biopsy
This breast calcification biopsy uses mammogram images to guide the needle to the area of concern. It is especially useful for sampling small calcium deposits in the breast. Learn more about our mammogram and X-Ray services.
During a stereotactic biopsy, you will lie face down on a special table. Your breast will be compressed, and mammogram images will help guide the needle. A tissue sample will be taken for testing.
The biopsy sample is analyzed in our lab. Test results are typically ready in a few days and can be accessed through your patient portal.
MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy
An MRI-guided biopsy uses magnetic resonance imaging to locate and sample suspicious areas in the breast. It is ideal for detecting abnormalities not visible with other imaging techniques. Learn more about our MRI scan services.
For an MRI-guided biopsy, you will lie face down on an MRI table. Your breast will be positioned in the MRI machine, and images will guide the needle to the targeted area. A small tissue sample will be taken for analysis.
The tissue sample is examined in our lab. You can expect to receive your biopsy results in a few days via the patient portal.
Breast Cyst Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
This procedure involves using a thin needle to remove fluid from a breast cyst. It is quick and often guided by ultrasound to ensure accuracy.
During an FNA, you will sit or lie down. The area of concern will be numbed, and the doctor will use a thin needle to withdraw fluid from the cyst, guided by ultrasound if needed.
The fluid sample is sent to our lab for testing. Results are typically available within a few days and can be viewed in your patient portal.
After your biopsy, you might experience some bruising or discomfort. It's normal to have questions like, "What does a breast biopsy marker look like?" Your doctor will place a small marker in the breast to identify the biopsy site for future reference. Most biopsy markers are tiny and safe.
Test results are usually available within a few days and can be accessed through your patient portal. Remember, most biopsies do not lead to a cancer diagnosis. If cancer is detected, our breast cancer specialists are here to provide comprehensive care.
