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Breast Biopsy
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Breast Biopsy

A breast biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to remove a sample of breast tissue to determine if a suspicious change is cancerous or benign.

Overview

A breast biopsy involves removing a tissue sample for examination by a pathologist. There are three primary methods:

  • Fine needle aspiration biopsy: Uses a very thin needle to remove cells or fluid.
  • Core needle biopsy: Uses a larger needle, sometimes with a vacuum probe, to remove a sample about the size of a grain of rice.
  • Surgical biopsy: A surgical procedure to remove a sample of tissue (incisional) or an entire tumor (excisional).

Why do I need a breast biopsy?

A biopsy is the only way to confirm if a breast change is cancer. You may need one if you or your provider feel a lump, or if imaging tests (mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI) show suspicious findings. Other indicators include red, scaly, or swollen skin, an inward-pulled nipple, or abnormal nipple discharge. Most breast changes checked by biopsy turn out to be benign.

What happens during a breast biopsy?

Procedures are often guided by imaging (mammography, ultrasound, or MRI). For needle biopsies, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. For surgical biopsies, you may receive local anesthesia or general anesthesia. In some surgical cases, a wire localization procedure is used to guide the surgeon to the specific area of concern.

Preparation and Aftercare

Inform your provider about all medications, especially blood thinners, as well as any allergies or pregnancy. If you are having general anesthesia, you will likely need to fast and arrange for someone to take you home. After the procedure, some bruising and discomfort are common. Your provider will give you specific instructions on wound care and managing discomfort.

What do the results mean?

Results are provided in a pathology report, which will categorize the findings:

  • Normal: No cancer or abnormal cells found.
  • Abnormal (non-cancerous): Changes that do not increase cancer risk.
  • Abnormal (increased risk): Cells are not cancer but increase the likelihood of developing it; further evaluation may be needed.
  • Breast cancer: Cancer cells are present, and the report will provide details to help plan treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most needle biopsies (fine‑needle aspiration or core‑needle) are processed within 3‑7 business days. The pathology report will state whether the tissue is benign, atypical, in‑situ carcinoma, or invasive cancer, and may include hormone‑receptor status if cancer is found. Surgical excisional biopsies can take a bit longer (up to 10‑14 days) because the larger specimen often requires more detailed examination.
For most core‑needle or fine‑needle biopsies, you can continue low‑dose aspirin, but stronger anticoagulants (warfarin, clopidogrel, direct oral anticoagulants) are usually held for 5‑7 days before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk. Always discuss the exact timing with your surgeon or interventional radiologist, as they may tailor the plan based on the type of biopsy and your overall bleeding risk.
Needle biopsies carry a low risk of bruising, mild pain, or a small hematoma at the entry site; infection is rare (<1%). Surgical biopsies have higher risks of wound infection, noticeable scarring, and a slightly longer recovery period, especially if general anesthesia is used. Both procedures have a very small (<0.1%) chance of causing a tumor seeding along the needle track, which is why imaging guidance is essential.
Yes, most needle biopsies can be safely performed during pregnancy and lactation because only a local anesthetic is used and no radiation is involved. Your provider may prefer ultrasound guidance (instead of mammography) to avoid any exposure. Surgical biopsies are usually postponed until after delivery unless the lesion is highly suspicious and cannot wait.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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