Breast Biopsy

Simple Open Breast Biopsy

 

What is a simple open breast biopsy?
Simple open breast biopsy procedure involves removing a lump from the breast for analysis in order to determine whether or not the lump is cancerous. The area of breast around the lump is numbed, and the growth is cut free. The wound is then stitched up.

What happens once the tissue is removed from the breast?
The tissue is examined by a pathologist, and special studies may be performed on the tissue, such as checking for hormone receptors in the cells. Your doctor will notify you of the results as soon as they are available.

Is this procedure uncomfortable?
The numbing medicine may cause minor discomfort. Your doctor will try to completely numb the breast on all sides of the lesion. If you still feel any discomfort during the procedure, more medicine can be used.

Can this procedure be performed in the doctor’s office?
Yes. Having it done in the office can be less costly than in a hospital. However, office biopsies are generally performed for low-risk or non- cancerous lesions.

Do all breast biopsies have to be performed by a breast surgery specialist?
Simple open breast biopsy is straightforward and easy. If the initial testing suggests concerns for cancer, you'll most likely be referred to a breast surgeon. If tests show that the lump is not cancerous, the lump can be removed by the simple biopsy technique performed in the office.