Your doctor may refer you for a breast biopsy to find out more about something seen on a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI, such as a lump, an area of calcification, or a change from previous imaging. A biopsy is often the next step when your doctor needs more detail than imaging alone can provide.

A pathologist examines the tissue sample closely to determine whether the area is benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous. This gives your doctor the information needed to plan your next steps, whether that means reassurance, monitoring, or further treatment.

Your skin will be cleaned and a local anaesthetic given by a small injection. This works quickly and effectively, usually within a few minutes, though some sensation may remain. Ice is applied to the area both before and after the procedure.

A small opening is made in the skin, and a biopsy device collects tissue samples under ultrasound guidance. You may hear a clicking or snapping sound as each sample is taken, but it should not be painful. Let your radiologist know if you feel any pain so more anaesthetic can be given. Several samples are usually collected to give the pathologist enough tissue for thorough testing.

If the area of concern is small, particularly under 6mm and able to be fully removed during the biopsy, a small metallic clip may be placed at the site so it can be found again on future imaging. This clip carries an additional cost that is not covered by Medicare; our team can confirm the amount for you.
 

You may feel some stinging or pressure while the local anaesthetic is given. Once it takes effect, most patients experience only minimal discomfort. Please tell your radiologist if you feel pain during the procedure so more anaesthetic can be given.

Bring your referral, Medicare card, and any previous breast imaging or reports. Please also tell our team about any allergies, including to local anaesthetic, any medical conditions, whether you have breast implants, and any medications or supplements that affect bleeding, such as blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) or fish oil.

A breast biopsy is generally a quick procedure, usually taking no more than 30 minutes, though the time can vary depending on the area being sampled and whether more than one site is involved.

A waterproof dressing is applied once the procedure is finished. You can shower as normal, and the dressing should stay on for 4 to 5 days. Keep the area clean and watch for any significant changes.

Some pain and bruising is common in the days that follow. To support your recovery:

• Apply firm pressure to the area on the day of your biopsy, where possible
• Avoid strenuous exercise for one day following your biopsy
• Use Panadol or paracetamol for pain relief if needed
• Apply a cold pack to help with swelling or discomfort
   

Complications are rare, but as with any medical procedure, potential risks include:

• Infection, especially if you are immunocompromised or diabetic
• Bleeding, with a higher risk if you take blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants) or supplements such as fish oil
• Light-headedness
• Nausea or fainting (a vasovagal reaction)
• Injury to nearby structures, such as the chest wall muscle. If you have breast implants, care is taken to avoid the implant, though damage cannot be entirely ruled out
• Allergic reactions

A small percentage of biopsies return a result that is inconclusive or does not fully match what was expected. This cannot be predicted beforehand. If this happens, your referring doctor will talk through the next steps with you.

If you experience sudden swelling, excess bleeding, redness, or significant pain, please contact your GP or your local hospital.
 

Reports are sent to your referring doctor once available. Please contact them directly to arrange a time to go through your results.

Bulk billing is available for eligible Medicare-rebatable services at participating clinics. If a marker clip is placed, this carries an additional cost that is not covered by Medicare. Our team will confirm any costs with you when you book.

We suggest arranging alternative childcare for the day of your procedure, or bringing another adult with you to look after your child. Children cannot be present in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.