Specialist Surgeon | Female Health Care | Cape Town Mediclinic
A breast biopsy removes a small sample of breast cells or tissue so that it can be examined under a microscope. It is recommended when examination or imaging shows an area that needs a tissue diagnosis. Having a biopsy does not mean you have breast cancer.
Why Is a Biopsy Needed?
Examination and imaging can show that an area of the breast needs further investigation, but they cannot always tell a benign change from cancer. Testing of a tissue sample is needed to tell them apart. The result guides whether any treatment is required. See I Found a Breast Lump. What Should I Do Now? for how a lump is assessed.
What Types of Breast Biopsy Are There?
- Core needle biopsy: a hollow needle takes a sample of breast tissue after the area is numbed with local anaesthetic.
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA): a fine needle and syringe take a sample of cells.
- Vacuum-assisted biopsy: several samples are collected without removing the needle.
- Surgical biopsy: part or all of the area is removed in an operation.
The type of biopsy depends on the findings.
How Is the Area Located?
Ultrasound or a mammogram may be used as a guide to pinpoint the area. Where an area can only be seen on a mammogram, a stereotactic biopsy uses mammogram images taken from two angles.
What Happens During and After a Needle Biopsy?
The skin is numbed with local anaesthetic before the needle is inserted. A small metal marker (clip) may be placed where the sample was taken, so that the area can be found again if further biopsy or surgery is needed; it can remain in the breast permanently. Afterwards the breast may ache and may be bruised. The sample is sent to the laboratory and examined under a microscope.
How Are the Results Given?
Your doctor discusses the results with you and explains whether any further tests or treatment are needed. Where treatment is required, the options are set out on the breast cancer surgery page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a biopsy mean I have cancer?
No. A biopsy is done to establish the diagnosis, and having one does not mean you have breast cancer.
Will I be awake?
Needle biopsies are performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs the area.
Should I mention my medication?
Yes. Tell the doctor if you take aspirin or blood-thinning medication before a core biopsy or fine needle aspiration.
What is the marker clip for?
It marks the biopsy site so that the area can be found again if another biopsy or surgery is needed.
If you have been advised to have a breast biopsy, or have a breast change that needs assessment, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Loots.
Book a ConsultationThis article provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are concerned about your health, please seek advice from a doctor.