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DEFINITION
Breast biopsy by incision is the removal of a lump or cyst from one of the breasts.
REASONS FOR PROCEDURE
Signs and symptoms that may indicate breast cancer or the results of mammography are suggestive of breast cancer. Pathologic examination of the removed tissue aids in diagnosis.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Smoking.
Obesity.
Poor nutrition.
Recent or chronic illness.
Use of drugs such as antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
Use of mind altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.
DESCRIPTION OF PROCEDURE
Biopsy is performed under local or general anesthesia.
Needles may be inserted into the breast to localize the lump or cyst.
An incision is made over the cyst or lump to be removed.
The cyst or lump is cut free of surrounding tissue and removed.
Bleeding is controlled with sutures or electrocautery.
The skin is closed with sutures or surgical clips. Which usually can be removed about 1 week after surgery.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 2 weeks for recovery from surgery.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Excessive bleeding.
Surgical wound infection.
Unsightly scar on breast (rare).
In cases of a large biopsy or if tissue removed is close to the skin, there can be some minor changes in the contour of the breast.
POST PROCEDURE CARE
GENERAL MEASURES
Hard ridge may form along the incision. The ridge will heal and recede gradually without treatment.
Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild unscented soap.
Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain.
Wear a supportive bra. Apply bandages to the surgical wound, and change them as directed.
MEDICATION
Antibiotics may be prescribed, if needed to fight infection.
Prescription pain medication should generally be required only for 2 to 7 days following the procedure.
You may use non-prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
ACTIVITY
Have someone drive you home following the procedure.
To help recovery and aid your well-being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as possible.
Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery.
Resume driving 3 to 5 days after returning home.
DIET
No special diet. However, you should continue following a nutritious dietary plan for a strong immune system and fast recovery from surgery.
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Adult Regular Diet
NOTIFY YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
You develop signs of infections: headache, muscle aches, dizziness, or a general ill feeling and Fever.
New, unexplained symptoms develop, such as nausea or vomiting.
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Procedures - Breast Biopsy By Needle Aspiration
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Procedures - Breast Surgery Index
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