Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy
Ultrasound is used to guide the needle to a finding that can be seen with ultrasound.
Breast Biopsy Education
Understanding Your Breast Biopsy
A breast biopsy is used to obtain a small tissue sample so it can be examined under a microscope. Learning what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can make the process feel more manageable.
Important to Know
A biopsy recommendation does not automatically mean cancer
Breast biopsies are recommended when imaging cannot fully determine the nature of a finding. Many biopsy results are benign. The biopsy provides the tissue information needed to make a more definitive diagnosis.
Start with what you need to know
Choose the topic that best matches where you are in the biopsy process.
Why was a biopsy recommended?
Learn why imaging findings sometimes require tissue sampling for a more definitive answer.
Learn moreHow should I prepare?
Review the biopsy overview and follow the specific preparation instructions provided by your breast center.
Learn moreWhat happens during the biopsy?
Learn how image guidance is used to obtain tissue samples and what you may experience during the procedure.
Learn moreWhat should I expect afterward?
Review the biopsy overview, then follow your breast center’s instructions for recovery and when to call.
Learn moreWhen will I receive my results?
Learn how pathology examines biopsy tissue and how the findings help guide next steps.
Learn moreProcedure Types
Types of Image-Guided Breast Biopsy
The type of image guidance depends on how the finding is best seen.
Stereotactic Breast Biopsy
Mammographic imaging is used to target findings such as certain calcifications or other mammographic abnormalities.
MRI-Guided Breast Biopsy
MRI guidance is used for a finding best seen on breast MRI.
What to Expect
A brief overview of the process. Your breast center’s instructions should guide your individual care.
- 1
Before the procedure
Your breast center will review the procedure and provide preparation instructions specific to you.
- 2
Imaging and numbing medicine
Imaging helps locate the finding, and numbing medicine is used before tissue sampling.
- 3
Tissue sampling and marker placement
Small tissue samples are collected. A marker may be placed to identify the biopsy site.
- 4
Recovery and pathology results
You will receive aftercare instructions, and the tissue will be examined by pathology.
Before
Preparing for Your Biopsy
Review medications and allergies with your breast center, follow its specific instructions, wear comfortable clothing, and ask when and how results will be communicated.
Read the biopsy overviewAfter
After Your Biopsy
Your breast center may provide instructions about dressing care, activity, bruising or soreness, cold packs, and when to contact the care team.
Review what to expectYour Results
Understanding Your Pathology Results
Pathology reports use specialized terms to describe tissue obtained during biopsy. Learn about common benign findings, high-risk lesions, and other terminology that may appear in a pathology report.
Explore Pathology ResultsEducation Library
Explore Biopsy and Pathology Topics
Use these active patient education pages to learn more about biopsy recommendations and common findings.
Biopsy education
Common benign findings
High-risk lesions
Breast Center Support
Need help from our breast care team?
For appointment questions, location details, or next-step instructions, use the breast center's normal contact channels.