biopsy concern

[punkrokmom]

id like to ask how a breast biopsy feels. i went for my first mammogram a few weeks ago,and it came back showing something. welli just went in for my special mammogram for my left breast,and a ultrasound. and they both showed something, they said its a hard mass. and now im waiting for the doctors to get my results and im supposed to get a biopsy now. i also have other family members that have had forms of breast cancer including my mother,she had full blown breast cancer,and had to have one removed and had to go thru chemotherapy,and all. and both grandmothers ,my mothers mother,,and my dads mother,also have had forms of breast cancer. i was supposed to get my first mammogram at 40 yrs of age,but i didnt get one till now. im 46 yrs old..

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear punkrokmom,  There are several types of biopsy procedures.  The types range from a fine needle aspiration which is a non-surgical form of breast biopsy in which a small needle is used to withdraw a sample of cells from the breast lump, to an open excisional biopsy in which an entire mass is removed.  Other types of biopsies are core needle biopsy that remove a sample of tissue from the area of concern, locating the area through mammogram or ultrasound guidance. The type of biopsy recommended depends on how large the breast lump or abnormal area is, how it was detected (by a lump that can be felt versus a mammogram), where in the breast it is located, and the physician's judgement as to what would be most helpful.  

The type of biopsy being done will determine what to expect and what you might feel.  The radiologist or surgeon who would be doing the biopsy will give you information as to what to expect depending on the type of biopsy.  

[LindsayLee]

hi
Let me know ezactzlly what kind of breast biopsy you are having. I would not worry about the needle kind since they numb the area and believe me you wont feel much . It is amazing. I have to have a surgical one. If you wind up having that then get back to me and i will be in a better position to answer your questions then since I did not have it but scheduled to. Lindsaylee

[SueYoung55]

I had a core needle biopsy guided by an ultrasound since they couldn't feel my mass. I watched the ultrasound while he numbed the breast with the tiniest needle I've ever seen. It did NOT hurt me. And it was interesting to watch. Then the radiologist told me that he was switching to a larger needle for the core biopsy and I turned my head the other way. Again, I say it did not hurt me. It sounded like a self-inked stamper when you stamp something. There was a tiny tug but no pain. I didn't watch that part of it :)
It's not something to be afraid of because they numb you really well.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. You can do this. :)

[LindaSueBob]

I also had a mammogram which showed a mass or lump. Then I had another real long mammogram procedure followed by ultrasound. All they said was I now need a biopsy but did not tell me which kind. I am hoping it is just the thin needle. It will be next wednesday March 11th. They just asked a bunch of questions and asked me to wear a sports bra which I do not have so purchased one altho I think my undewire would be okay as it is sort of back from the nipple so nothing would press on the needle site.  I am freaked out about pain but after reading everyones post it seems it will be okay. I also am facing gall bladder surgery, hiatal hernia surgery, thyroid surgery and now they found this. I cried at the Dr office as I have been so overwhelmed with it all. I am 57 and thought I was in good health, I guess not. Good luck to everyone and thanks for the information. Linda

[jbird25]

I am waiting for the results of my biopsy and very anxious.  I had it yesterday and my breast is still bleeding, it seems to be washing off the steristrips.  I had a 5 mm nodule with micro calcs.  Any body have any insight?

[Sher300]

Yesterday I had a core biopsy and waiting on results.  The doctor just called but I missed the call.  It's seems really fast in one day, when they told me it would be 2-3 days for results.   Mine hurt because I have left breast pain already.  The doctor was very nice who performed the biopsy but she didn't put enough deadening stuff in there before finishing the biopsy up an because I already have pain it did hurt.  She apologized and said she should have put more.   They told me most women don't feel anything so don't worry, just make sure they deaden the area good and you will not feel it.  I wish you the best.

[rubytuesday702]

You mentioned you were having a surgical biopsy in Jan. I', having it tmrw due to calcifications found and couldn't be done with the stero tactic needle procedure. Can you let me know if you had the surgical one? Was there any pain during it were you under anethesia at the entire procedure? How is the healing process? I'm really scared about this..Get back to me

[50GC]

Hi mom

I had a surgical ultrasound directed needle biopsy. Yes they numbed me and I did not feel it as they did it but 1 month exactly after the biopsy, I still have pain in my breast.    I had a  non-surgical needle biopsy many years ago and it was a piece of cake...no pain and no lingering affects.  To be honest, I would classify the surgical needle biopsy as minor surgery. Blessings on you.