incisional biopsy

Hi all, I am scheduled to have an incisional biopsy (with removal) next week. What can I expect in the way of pain, limitation of movement, etc? In other words, I am a very busy person and want to know what my limitations will be. It's apparently a small lesion at the top of my breast, close to the surface. Won't know the results until after the biopsy.
Thanks in advance.

[Denise L. Johnson, M.D.]

Hi,

Most patients as the post noted are able to return to daily activities.  For the first week, avoid vacuuming, lifting anything on that side greater than 5 lbs.  I advise my patients to wear a sports bra that opens in the front or back in order to obtain good support and compression of the operative site.

you will have less pain and bruising, you should  not jog or do any aerobic, high impact exercise for 2 weeks- 3 weeks to allow the wound to heal.

[txgrl01]

I had an excisional biopsy on July 3rd and returned to work on July 9th.  I had a softball size specimen removed that was near the chest wall and had a 3 1/2 inch incision.  I did not need to use pain killers although ice the first 2 days was very helpful.  I felt well enough that if the 7 and 8th had been work days that I could have returned to work BUT I have a desk job and my co-workers wouldn't let me lift anything the first few days.  If my incision had been smaller and less invasive, I think I would have been able to bounce back faster.
Make some meals in advance because you'll not want to bend and lift the first week or so. I am large-chested so supporting my breast when bending was necessary the first 10 days or so (even with a bra).
Remember, everyone is different and different people have different pain tolerances and daily responsibilities.  Listen to your body and gets lots of rest the first 2-3 days, then ease back into daily activities.  Ask your surgeon LOTS of questions about the types of activities that you regularly perform.
I hope your results are benign.  God Bless