I have to have a breast biopsy.

Can someone tell me how much pain is involved with a steriotactic needle biopsy?  I have been informed just today that I need one next week because of microcalcifications in the left breast.  Since my mother also has had breast cancer, I am very concerned about the outcome of all this.  


This discussion is related to microcalcifications and breast cancer..

[japdip]

That's a hard one to answer Connie .... some women have only slight discomfort and I have heard others who complain of quite a bit of pain. I think it depends on YOU but most don't find it a problem. If you do experience any pain don't hesitate to let the Technician and Radiologist know it ... a local anesthesia is used and you are the only one who will know if it's sufficient. good Luck with your biopsy; THINK BENIGN !!!

[madgeOwens]

I had that procedure a week ago and its not bad. The only discomfort is the needle pinch when they inject lidocaine to numb your breast.  You need to relax and you will do fine.  Good luck to you.

[barbeehd]

Well, I was just the opposite. Thought it would be easy but I was in extreme pain, burning  and I wanted to kick the doctor. He said it would be like a rubber band snapping.  Only had lidocaine on the surface. Later was told they could have put it into the biopsy needle, but they didn't.