Breast Needle Biospy - After your biopsy

A breast biopsy is a test that collects a sample of tissue from your breast to check for abnormalities (any problems).
This is usually done by a specialist doctor (Radiologist) using ultrasound (x- ray) or a mammogram to guide them to the right area.
A mammogram is a special type of X-ray used to take pictures of the breast.
You will be given a local anaesthetic so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
A metal marker clip is usually placed in the breast where the biopsy was taken. It is a very small clip to mark the area within the breast.
This is so the area can easily be found again if another biopsy or surgery is needed.
It will not set off alarms at airports.
If you do have a metal marker clip, tell your doctor or radiographer.
Do this before any future MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan.
Most metal marker clips are fine for MRIs, but your clinician needs to know as the scan is sensitive to some metals.
The sample will be sent to the laboratory for testing, and you can usually expect to receive your results within two weeks.

The local anaesthetic will wear off after two to three hours. Your breast may be tender or painful.
If the area becomes uncomfortable take some paracetamol. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the pack.
Do not take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) like ibuprofen.
Do not take medicines that contain aspirin. These could cause more bruising in the breast.
Some women find it helps to wear and sleep in a supportive sports bra.
It is normal to have some bruising to the breast in the days after your biopsy.
The amount of bruising can be different for each person.
It depends on the size of the needle and how many samples are taken.
The Radiology staff will make sure that any bleeding has stopped before you leave the department.
A dressing will be put on to keep the area clean and dry.
Keep this on for at least 48 hours.
Do not get the area wet in the shower or bath.
Do not lift heavy things or do hard exercise for at least 24 hours after your procedure. This can make bleeding start again.

If the biopsy site starts to bleed, press on it for at least 10 minutes until it stops.
If the bleeding does not stop or your breast starts to swell up, remove the dressing and apply more pressure. Use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel.
If the bleeding does not stop after 30 minutes, go to A&E (accident and emergency department) and take this leaflet with you.
Sometimes a solid lump will form beneath the skin. This is due to blood collecting and hardening within the breast. It is called a haematoma.
If this happens, show it to your breast surgeon at your results appointment.

Any procedure that breaks the skin can carry a risk of causing an infection.
The risk is very small as all the equipment we use is sterile.
If your breast becomes hot and red, pus comes from the biopsy site, or you get a fever, see your GP right away.
You may need some antibiotics to help stop the infection.

Your results may be sent to you by letter or given to you at an outpatient appointment with your Surgeon.
All results are discussed at the weekly Multidisciplinary Team meeting, so you may have to wait up to two weeks to receive the biopsy results.

For further information about breast biopsies and aftercare you may find the following link helpful: https://www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Tel: 020 7288 5888, Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
Email: whh-tr.lmagingAppointments-WhittHealth@nhs.net

Published:

16 Apr 2026

Review:

16 Apr 2028

Reference:

ACW/Imag/AUBNB/02