After the biopsy
We will ask you to stay with us in the Breast Unit for 15 minutes after the procedure so we can make sure that there is no further bleeding from the biopsy site. You should keep the dressing and paper stitch on for a minimum of 24 hours.
After the procedure you may resume normal activities as soon as you feel able to, although you should avoid strenuous physical activities in the first 24 hours. You may develop significant bruising around the biopsy site and/or feel a lump there over the next day or so, this is normal and will resolve on its own. Patients also experience different amounts of discomfort after the procedure.
Once the anaesthetic has “worn off” your breast may feel uncomfortable. You can take Paracetamol for this or any regular over the counter pain relief.
Follow-up and results
Your biopsy results will be discussed at a weekly meeting with our doctors and will usually be available to you 2 weeks after the biopsy. You will be sent or given a clinic appointment to discuss your results with a Breast Surgeon.
Symptoms to report
If you start bleeding after leaving the department apply pressure to the area for 10 minutes until the bleeding stops. In the very unlikely event that the bleeding is severe then you should go to your local Emergency Department (A&E). Please do not take Aspirin as this may increase bruising (unless you are already taking Aspirin as part of your prescribed medication, and then please continue with your usual daily dose as prescribed).
Details of the references used in writing this leaflet are available on request from: Procedural Document and Leaflet Coordinator 01253 953397 or bfwh.
