Specialist Breast Imaging
Breast Biopsy Canberra
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy for the assessment of breast lumps and abnormal breast imaging.
What Is Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy?
Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a procedure that uses real-time ultrasound to take a small sample of tissue from an area of the breast. The sample is sent to a pathology laboratory, where it is examined to determine the nature of the finding.
Ultrasound guidance allows your radiologist to see the needle and the area being sampled throughout the procedure, so the tissue can be taken precisely and safely. It is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery and is usually performed under local anaesthetic.
Why Might I Need a Breast Biopsy?
A breast biopsy is usually recommended to find out more about a specific area of concern. Common reasons include:
A breast lump
To determine the nature of a lump felt on examination or seen on imaging.
An abnormal ultrasound
To further assess an area identified on breast ultrasound.
An abnormal mammogram
To sample a finding seen on screening or diagnostic mammography.
An abnormal breast MRI
To target and sample an area identified on breast MRI.
A biopsy does not mean a finding is cancer. It is a careful step to provide a clear diagnosis, and many findings that are biopsied turn out to be benign.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Before we begin, your radiologist will explain each step, answer any questions you have, and make sure you feel comfortable to proceed.
- 1
Local anaesthetic
The skin over the area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable.
- 2
Ultrasound-guided sampling
Using real-time ultrasound, your radiologist guides a biopsy needle to the area and takes one or more small tissue samples.
- 3
Marker clip, if needed
A tiny marker clip may be placed at the biopsy site so the area can be identified on future imaging.
- 4
Aftercare
A small dressing is applied. Most people can return to normal activities the same day, avoiding heavy lifting for a short period.
After Your Biopsy and Getting Results
Some mild bruising, tenderness or swelling at the biopsy site is common and usually settles within a few days. Simple pain relief and a cold pack can help, and we will give you written aftercare instructions before you leave.
Your tissue samples are examined by a pathologist, and results are typically available within a few days. We send the results to your referring doctor, who will discuss them with you and coordinate any further care that may be needed.
Breast Ultrasound
A breast biopsy often follows a breast ultrasound. If an area seen on ultrasound needs sampling, the biopsy can frequently be performed during the same appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for a breast biopsy?
Yes — a referral from your GP, specialist or other doctor is required. We accept referrals written on any referral form, even if it is addressed to another imaging provider. You can email your referral to referrals@canberrabreast.com or bring it to your appointment.
Is a breast biopsy painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so most people feel only brief pressure or a small sting as the area is numbed. Some mild tenderness or bruising afterwards is common and usually settles within a few days.
How long does a breast biopsy take?
The biopsy itself usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, though you should allow extra time for preparation, the ultrasound and aftercare. Your radiologist will talk you through each step beforehand.
When will I get my results?
Tissue samples are sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days and are sent to your referring doctor, who will discuss them with you and arrange any further care needed.
Can the biopsy be done at the same appointment as my ultrasound?
In many cases, yes. If your ultrasound shows an area that needs sampling, the biopsy can often be performed during the same visit. Your radiologist will explain the procedure, answer your questions and obtain your consent before proceeding.
Book a Breast Biopsy Appointment
Book online, or email your referral to referrals@canberrabreast.com. You can also call us on (02) 5114 4899.
Book online