Feeling a lump in your breast is bound to be unpleasant and stressful for every woman, and it’s only logical that you’d want to talk to your doctor as soon as possible to get the lump diagnosed. It’s important to note that about 80% of lumps that form in breasts are benign. Doctors use modern tools and techniques such as the minimally invasive breast biopsy procedure to diagnose the lump. And how long does a breast biopsy take, you may wonder? Usually, it lasts about 30 minutes or shorter with just local anesthesia used. That said, it’s important for women to know how to prepare for a breast biopsy, what not to do before a breast biopsy, and what to expect from it.
What Is a Breast Biopsy Procedure?
The breast biopsy is usually suggested after a woman notices strange changes to her breast or the ultrasound/mammogram shows some suspicious results. The procedure involves taking a piece of lump tissue from the breast to have it thoroughly analyzed under a microscope. Once the biopsy tissue piece gets analyzed in the lab, the results will show whether the lump is benign or cancerous. Going forward, the doctor will suggest adequate treatment.
Different Types of Breast Biopsy Procedure
While every breast biopsy ultimately does the same thing and ends up getting a piece of the breast lump tissue, the doctor may recommend one among several types of this procedure based on the lump characteristics as well as its location and size. That said, we can talk about stereotactic, ultrasound-guided, and MRI-guided biopsy.
Stereotactic Biopsy
For this breast biopsy, a mammogram is used to precisely locate the suspicious breast area. To go through it, a woman will have to either lie face down on the table or sit, but the concerning breast will be pressed between 2 plates during which time the mammogram will target the areas of suspicion. In order to get a lump tissue sample once it’s located, the radiologist will insert a needle into a previously created small incision in the breast.
Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy
As the name suggests, this particular type of biopsy uses ultrasound imaging as a guide. A woman will have to lie down on the ultrasound table, either on her back or side. Once the ultrasound locates the suspicious mass, the radiologist will create a small incision in the breast and use a needle to get tissue samples.
MRI-Guided Biopsy
For this type of biopsy, MRI imaging guides the procedure and provides 3D images that show more detail. A woman will have to lie face down on a scanning table while her breasts will be positioned into the table’s depressions. Again, once the area of suspicion is located, tissue samples will be retrieved with a needle through a small incision in the breast.
How to Prepare for a Breast Biopsy?
If you’re wondering how to prepare for a breast biopsy, start by preparing some questions for your doctor before the actual procedure. By gathering additional info about the whole thing, you can relieve some stress. For instance, you can ask:
- What type of biopsy will be used?
- Will the radiologist remove just parts of or the entire lump?
- What kind of anesthesia can I expect?
- When can I come back to my everyday activities?
- What kind of lab tests will be done on the samples?
- When can I expect to receive the results?
Before you go in to have the procedure done, you’ll have to provide your medical history to a nurse and potentially answer some questions.
For the actual breast biopsy preparation, make sure to disclose every single medicine and supplement that you take to your doctor and mention all the allergies you have. Also, don’t hesitate to notify the doctor about potentially not being able to lie on your stomach for too long.
How you dress and what you eat will also be essential parts of your breast biopsy preparation. That said, make sure to eat only a light meal before heading out. Clothing-wise, wear something that feels comfortable and fits loosely, such as sweats, zip hoodies, and similar. You should also wear or bring a comfy bra with you as there’s a chance you may need it after the procedure to hold cold packs and provide the necessary support. If you have to take a painkiller, make sure it’s acetaminophen-based, like Tylenol for example.
What Not to Do Before a Breast Biopsy?
Part of the breast biopsy preparation also includes knowing what not to do before a breast biopsy. For starters, you shouldn’t prepare an overly hearty and heavy meal for yourself just before the procedure is about to take place. Do not wear clothes that are too tightly fitted and avoid one-piece garments. Make sure not to wear your jewelry and remove all necklaces and earrings. Refrain from using talcum powder, deodorant, and bath oils on the same day as your biopsy procedure. Do not take blood thinners or painkillers that contain ibuprofen and aspirin, like Advil, at least 3 to 7 days before your scheduled biopsy date.
Since only local anesthesia is used, you will be able to drive home on your own, but it might be better to get a taxi or have a loved one take you home instead for added emotional support.
How Long Does a Breast Biopsy Take?
As mentioned, most women are done with the procedure in less than half an hour. However, how long a breast biopsy takes depends on the type of biopsy being performed. That said, an ultrasound-guided biopsy may be over in 20 minutes while the stereotactic biopsy that uses a mammogram as a guide may take up to an hour.
After the Breast Biopsy Procedure
Once the biopsy is completed, a woman will be able to return home on the same day to rest and recover. It’s possible to have a cold pack, a bandage, and/or stitches. Depending on the situation, the doctor will give thorough after-care instructions. On most occasions, women will be able to get back to their regular daily schedules on the very next day.
If you happen to experience any swelling or bruising, keep in mind that that is perfectly normal. You can use ice and cold packs for the first couple of days. Also, remember to wear a bra, even at night, for at least a week. Again, if painkillers are necessary, make sure they don’t contain ibuprofen and aspirin.
The most difficult part of the entire breast biopsy procedure is actually waiting for the results. Of course, the moment they’re available, you’ll be readily notified, even if they show normal or benign changes. However, you have to be patient as getting all the lab results may take up to 2 weeks or so.
In case the change is cancerous, the results will include thorough information about it and whether it’s hormone-receptor-negative or -positive. The next step will involve the development of the best kind of treatment for your needs.
Don’t hesitate to contact us at Breast Care Center Miami if you want to know more about the procedure, learn how to prepare for a breast biopsy, discuss any concerns you may have, or simply ask questions about your health and breast care.
