Health Tip: What to Expect From a Breast Biopsy

(HealthDay News) — A breast biopsy involves removing a sample of breast tissue or fluid to test for the presence of cancerous cells.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says here’s what you can expect from a non-surgical needle biopsy:

You will lay on your side or sit on an exam table.
A health care provider will clean the biopsy site and inject it with an anesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
When the area is numb, the health care provider will insert a needle into the site and remove a sample of tissue or fluid.
You may feel some pressure as the sample is being withdrawn.
Pressure will be applied to the biopsy site until any bleeding stops.
A sterile bandage is then applied to help prevent any additional bleeding.