Excision Biopsy of a Breast Lump or Indeterminate Area of Tissue
Date issued: November 2024
Review date: November 2026
Leaflet section: Breast Care
PDF: Excision Biopsy of a Breast Lump or Indeterminate Area of Tissue.pdf [pdf] 141KB
West Devon and East Cornwall Breast Screening Service
When an abnormality is found in the breasts it is important to gain as much information as possible about its nature by performing either a needle test or core biopsy. However, sometimes these tests are inconclusive, and you will need to have an open biopsy or excision biopsy to provide conclusive accurate information. This is a small operation to remove the lump or area of concern. It is usually done under general anaesthetic.
If the suspicious area has been found on mammogram or ultrasound, with no lump to feel, the area may need to be identified by the radiologist prior to the operation so that the surgeon can be accurately guided to the tissue. This is called localisation and is usually done on the morning of the operation with the help of an ultrasound scan or a mammogram (a separate leaflet is available).
Before surgery
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You will be medically assessed before your operation.
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The doctor will ask you to sign a consent form. This will state the operation you are having, and it is important that you understand it before signing. This side of your operation will be marked by an arrow with indelible pen prior to your surgery.
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You will be asked by the doctor if you consent for any tissue/fluid samples to be used for evaluation purposes, research or quality control.
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You will be seen by an anaesthetist who will discuss any previous anaesthetics you have had, and any side effects you have suffered e.g. sickness.
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If you have any specific dietary requirements, please inform the ward staff when you are admitted.
After surgery
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If you are worried about the wound, please contact the Breast Care Nurse or your GP. The Opsite dressing can be removed after seven days, or as directed.
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Do not use talc or deodorant near the wound until it is healed.
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You may/may not have a drain in place. This helps with the healing process by draining excess fluid. Your surgeon will decide when the tubes are removed. You may be allowed home with your drain in place and return to the Unit for removal.
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You may feel numbness and tightness around the wound. This is part of the normal healing process.
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You will be prescribed medication for any pain relief needed.
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You may shower with your Opsite dressing in place but avoid getting the dressing completely soaked as it will start to come away.
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After discharge a follow up appointment will be arranged for you approximately 2-3 weeks following the day of surgery. This is to check the wound and to discuss your results from the pathology report and any further treatment that may be necessary.
Advice after discharge
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For added comfort and support of the breast, you may want to wear a bra day and night for at least seven days (ideally non wired bra)
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Take simple pain relief as you feel necessary (Do not exceed the stated dose). You can get further supplies from your G.P.
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You may bath/shower. Do not use talc or deodorant near the wound for the first two weeks as this may cause skin irritation.
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If you notice any inflammation, swelling or discharge from the wound, contact your G.P. Surgery, Breast Care Nurse.
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You may feel tired for the first few days/weeks after your operation. Allow yourself time to adjust to the effects of surgery. Recovering from breast surgery emotionally can take some time.
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You may return to work when you feel able to do so, and when your G.P. is agreeable.
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Resume driving once the wound has healed and you have a good range of arm movement. You also need to be able to make safe judgements on the road.
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If you have any queries once at home please contact your G.P surgery, Breast Care Nurse (Monday to Friday) 01752 431898.
Further information will be provided on discharge from the hospital.
Breast awareness
You will have check-ups following your surgery, but it is advisable to be breast aware. This involves looking at and feeling your breast (unless bilateral mastectomies), your scar and armpits for any change. By doing this regularly you will know what is normal for you. Discuss any concerns with your G.P. or Breast Care Nurse.
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
