About
What is a Breast Biopsy?
A breast biopsy is a procedure used to remove a small sample of breast tissue so it can be examined under a microscope.
It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing breast abnormalities and helps determine whether a breast lump or imaging abnormality is:
- benign
- high-risk
- pre-cancerous
- breast cancer
Although many patients fear a biopsy means cancer, most breast biopsies identify non-cancerous conditions.
Why Might You Need a Breast Biopsy?
Your doctor may recommend a biopsy if you have:
- a breast lump
- abnormal mammogram
- abnormal ultrasound
- suspicious MRI findings
- breast thickening
- nipple changes
- bloody nipple discharge
- architectural distortion
- breast calcifications
- enlarged lymph nodes
A biopsy allows an accurate diagnosis before deciding whether treatment is necessary.
Types of Breast Biopsy
Depending on the abnormality, Dr Rizvi may recommend one of several biopsy techniques.
Core Needle Biopsy
The most common breast biopsy.
Using local anaesthetic, a hollow needle removes several tiny samples of breast tissue.
Core biopsy provides enough tissue for pathologists to accurately diagnose:
Most patients return home immediately afterwards.
Ultrasound Guided Breast Biopsy
If the lump can be seen on ultrasound, the biopsy is performed using real-time ultrasound guidance.
Benefits include:
- highly accurate
- minimally invasive
- no general anaesthetic
- small skin incision
- rapid recovery
Vacuum Assisted Breast Biopsy
For some abnormalities, particularly calcifications or difficult-to-access lesions, vacuum-assisted biopsy allows larger tissue samples to be collected.
Dr Rizvi will advise if this technique is appropriate.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Most breast biopsies take approximately 20–40 minutes.
The procedure usually involves:
- Breast imaging
- Cleaning the skin
- Local anaesthetic
- Small skin nick
- Needle inserted under imaging guidance
- Tissue samples collected
- Pressure applied
- Dressing placed
No stitches are usually required.
Does a Breast Biopsy Hurt?
Most women describe the procedure as uncomfortable rather than painful.
Local anaesthetic numbs the breast before the biopsy begins.
Afterwards you may experience:
- mild bruising
- tenderness
- swelling
These symptoms usually improve over several days.
Simple pain relief and avoiding strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours is usually recommended.
Recovery After Breast Biopsy
Most patients:
✔ Drive home
✔ Return to work the next day
✔ Shower after 24 hours
✔ Resume exercise after a few days
A small bruise is common.
Understanding Your Results
Biopsy results are generally available within several days.
Possible findings include:
Benign
Examples include:
- fibroadenoma
- cyst
- fat necrosis
- benign breast tissue
Many benign conditions require no surgery.
High Risk Changes
Occasionally biopsy identifies:
- atypical ductal hyperplasia
- lobular neoplasia
- radial scar
Further surgery may sometimes be recommended.
Breast Cancer
If cancer is diagnosed, Dr Rizvi explains:
- cancer type
- tumour grade
- receptor status
- stage
- recommended treatment options which may include a lumpectomy
Every patient receives an individual treatment plan developed according to current Australian breast cancer guidelines.
Why Choose Dr Ali Rizvi?
Choosing an experienced breast surgeon is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Dr Ali Rizvi offers:
✔ Fellowship-trained Breast Surgeon
✔ Comprehensive breast assessment
✔ Modern diagnostic techniques
✔ Individualised treatment plans
✔ Compassionate patient-centred care
✔ Multidisciplinary breast cancer management
✔ Convenient South West Sydney locations
Worried About a Breast Lump?
Early diagnosis provides reassurance and ensures appropriate treatment when needed.
Arrange a consultation with Dr Ali Rizvi for expert breast assessment and biopsy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a breast biopsy painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort because local anaesthetic is used before the procedure.
How long does a breast biopsy take?
Usually between 20 and 40 minutes.
Will I be awake?
Yes. Most breast biopsies are performed under local anaesthetic.
Can I drive afterwards?
In most cases, yes. If you have sedation, someone else should drive you home.
How long does bruising last?
Bruising usually settles within one to two weeks.
What percentage of breast biopsies are cancer?
Many breast biopsies show benign conditions rather than cancer. A biopsy is performed to obtain a definitive diagnosis because imaging alone cannot always determine the cause of a breast abnormality.
What is a core biopsy?
A core biopsy uses a hollow needle to remove small cylinders of breast tissue for microscopic examination and is the most commonly performed breast biopsy.
Will I need surgery after a biopsy?
Not always.
If the biopsy is benign, surgery may not be necessary. If cancer or certain high-risk changes are identified, Dr Rizvi will discuss the most appropriate treatment options.
Is a breast biopsy accurate?
Core needle biopsy is highly accurate when combined with breast imaging and clinical assessment.
