Breast Biopsy

Lucina Women's Health

Minimally Invasive Surgery & OBGYNs located in Boca Raton, FL & Boynton Beach, FL

Breast exams and screenings play a vital role in early detection of breast cancer. However, a breast biopsy may be recommended to identify the nature of the abnormality. If you have breast health concerns, turn to the expert team at Lucina Women's Health and Midwifery in Boca Raton, Pompano Beach, Parkland, Wellington, and Boynton Beach, Florida. They provide excellent guidance, diagnoses, and treatment to promote breast health, in addition to highly personalized care. Book by phone today, or use the online scheduling tool now.

Breast Biopsy Q&A

What is a breast biopsy?

A breast biopsy is a medical procedure used to obtain a sample of breast tissue for further examination under a microscope. The Lucina Women's Health and Midwifery team typically performs them when there’s suspicion of breast cancer or when imaging tests reveal abnormalities that require further evaluation.

A biopsy helps to determine whether a breast lump or suspicious area is cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign).

When is a breast biopsy recommended?

Your provider may recommend a breast biopsy in several situations:

Detection of a breast lump

If there’s a lump or mass found during your physical examination or imaging test, your provider may recommend a biopsy to determine its nature.

Suspicious findings on imaging

Abnormalities detected on mammograms, ultrasound, or MRI scans, such as microcalcifications, distortions, or suspicious areas, may require a biopsy for accurate diagnosis.

Evaluation of changes in breast tissue

If your provider notices changes in your breast tissue during a routine screening or if you notice anything unusual during a self-examination, a biopsy may be necessary to assess the cause of these changes.

What can I expect during a breast biopsy?

During a breast biopsy, your provider may use several techniques depending on the location and characteristics of the abnormal area. Common biopsy methods include:

Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB)

Your provider uses a thin needle to withdraw cells or fluid from the suspicious area for examination.

Core needle biopsy (CNB)

Your provider uses a larger needle to extract a small tissue sample from the abnormal area.

Stereotactic biopsy

This method uses mammography guidance to precisely target biopsy-suspicious areas that aren’t easily accessible by other means.

Surgical (excisional) biopsy

In some cases, your provider may need to perform a surgical procedure to remove the entire abnormal area for examination.

When will I know the results of my breast biopsy?

The timeline for receiving biopsy results can vary depending on your procedure and laboratory processing times. In general, results from a breast biopsy are typically available within a few days to a week after your procedure.

Your Lucina Women’s Health and Midwifery provider discusses the timing of results and any follow-up appointments with you.

If you notice abnormalities during a self-breast examination, book an appointment for further evaluation. Call or use the online scheduler now.