Does a Breast Biopsy Leave a Scar?

A breast biopsy is an effective way to evaluate whether or not a suspicious lump or growth in your breast is cancerous. The procedure involves taking a sample of your breast tissue. After the sample of your breast tissue is removed, it is sent off to a lab for a pathologist to determine whether or not it is cancerous or benign. For those who need the procedure you may wonder, does a breast biopsy leave a scar? Below you will find more information about what you can expect from the procedure.

Purpose of a Breast Biopsy

A breast biopsy is necessary if a lump or growth is found in your breast after a mammogram, breast ultrasound, or physical exam. While most breast lumps are benign, it is necessary to further investigate the issue to be sure. A biopsy may also be necessary if there are changes in your nipple. Changes such as bloody discharge, crusting, dimpling skin, or scaling. These are common symptoms of a breast tumor. It is imperative to follow your doctor’s orders if they order a breast biopsy.

Breast Biopsy Procedure

While a biopsy may sound like a nerve-racking procedure, it is minimally invasive and necessary to ensure your overall health. A breast biopsy in Houston is minimally invasive and utilizes ultrasound-guided technology. We collect tissue samples through the use of a needle that passes through your skin. This particular technology uses soundwaves to locate the growth or a lump in your breast. To ensure that you stay comfortable during the procedure, we numb the skin and tissue around the mass with local anesthetic.

An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy takes roughly 10 to 20 minutes to complete and is much less invasive as compared to a surgical biopsy. The sample is taken using ultrasound technology to optimize the tissue sample. Once the sample is taken, a pathologist analyzes the tissue under a microscope to determine whether it is cancerous or benign.

Does a Breast Biopsy Leave a Scar?

One of the major benefits of an ultrasound-guided biopsy is that there is no scarring involved. This is because a needle is used to extract the tissue sample and does not require an incision. In addition to no scarring, the procedure proves fast, cost-effective, and have minimal complications associated with the procedure. It is also painless and does not utilize radiation. Patients who choose this breast biopsy method also recover much faster. In fact, you should be able to get back to your regular daily routine the next day. An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is highly effective and provides you with accurate and timely results.

Breast Biopsy Results and Follow Up

One of the most difficult parts of a breast biopsy is the waiting period. However, results from an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy take roughly three business days. Depending on your results, you’ll need to take the necessary next steps to ensure your overall health. It is important to follow the directions of your medical provider when it comes to how to move forward after your breast biopsy results.

Breast cancer screening in Houston is an important part of women’s health. Consult with your medical provider about when and how often you should receive screening. Most recommend getting your first mammogram at age 40. Depending on your level of risk and family history, you should have a screening annually after your first mammogram. If you haven’t had your first breast cancer screening, contact the team at Pink Door Imaging today. They prove skilled in mammograms and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. To give yourself peace of mind when it comes to your health, schedule an appointment for screening today!

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