If you notice any of the following, you should seek medical attention, which may lead to a biopsy:

• New lumps or thickened areas in the breast or underarm.
• Changes in breast shape or size.
• Unexplained pain in the breast that persists.
• Unusual nipple discharge, especially if bloody or clear.

Do's:

• Follow post-procedure care instructions: Apply ice to reduce swelling and wear a supportive bra.
• Keep the area clean: Follow the doctor's advice on how to care for the biopsy site.
• Take prescribed pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen may help.
• Rest: Avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the biopsy.
• Watch for signs of infection: Report redness, swelling, or fever to your doctor.

​​​​​​​ Don'ts:

• Don't ignore unusual symptoms: If you notice persistent pain, excessive bleeding, or other issues, contact your doctor.
• Avoid heavy lifting: Refrain from lifting heavy objects for a few days.
• Don't soak in baths: Stick to showers to avoid getting the biopsy site wet until it's healed.
• Don't rush back to normal activities: Give yourself time to heal.

NOTE:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's important to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified physician. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

American Cancer Society | Breast Biopsy

NATIONAL BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION | Breast Biopsy

Penn Medicine - ABRAMSON CANCER CENTER | Breast Biopsy

MedlinePlus | Breast Biopsy

UCSF Health | Biopsy for Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Fine Needle Aspiration