Facing breast biopsy

Later today, I will undergo a second attempt to biopsy a calcification in my left breast that appeared on a routine mammogram.  The first attempt was unsuccessful. They did not get to use the needle as it took a long time to locate the calcification that showed on the initial mammogram. This may have occurred because my breast tissue is dense. So, I am going back today for the needle biopsy. I am worried to say the least, but I am thankful to have found a forum where I can share my concerns.  

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

I hope that your biopsy procedure will be uneventful and will cause you as minimal pain and discomfort as possible.  The discomfort and pain that can follow the procedure will depend on what type of needle will be used.  If the biopsy is fine needle, then the needle to be used is small and should not cause pain.  A larger needle is required if a core biopsy will be done.  I suggest you ask your doctor regarding medications to take after the procedure to minimize the pain and unease.

Regards and God bless.

[seeking_support]

Thanks for the information. I will ask what medication to take for pain. I will also ask before the procedure whether it will be fine needle or core needle as this will help me to manage my expectations.  I will let you know the results.

[seeking_support]

I had the core biopsy. After I returned home on Friday, the wound bled, and I changed the gauze dressing. The bleeding stopped, and I have periodically put an ice pack on it. Because of the difficult location and small size of the calcifications, I will not learn whether they got a good tissue sample until the results come back Monday or early Tuesday. Of course, I am wondering will I have to go through this again? Or worse,  will I have to have surgery?  I am also concerned that my left breast has been repeatedly bombared by radiation over the past three days. How awful.

[PaulMD]

Hi.

I hope that they got a good sample and that the diagnosis will be definitive.  If not, and if your doctor is still not satisfied or still suspicious, then unfortunately, a surgery may be warranted.  But I suggest you relax, and we'll cross the bridge when we get there.  Regards.

[frustratedrg]

Have you heard anything yet