Needle Biopsy of the Breast: Aftercare Advice

Will I experience any bruising or pain?

Bruising

It is common to have some bruising for up to 7 days after your biopsy.

Pain

When the local anaesthetic has worn off, swelling or discomfort may be experienced. This will settle over time.

Wearing a supportive, non-wired bra (such as a sports bra) for the first 24 hours after your biopsy may provide additional comfort and support.

If you experience any pain or discomfort you can take painkillers, for example, Paracetamol.

You must not take Aspirin, as this could cause further bleeding.

You should always follow the instructions provided in the leaflet supplied with your tablets.

How should I care for my dressings?

You will have a small wound on your breast which will be closed with steri-strips (special paper stitches) and covered with a small dressing.

It is important you keep the dressing dry, so you may have a shallow bath but should avoid showering for the first 24 hours. The dressing can be removed 24 to 48 hours after your biopsy (you may find it easier to do this by soaking it in the bath/shower).

You can replace the dressing with a small plaster, if needed until your wound has healed.

Is there anything I need to watch out for when I get home?

If any of the following symptoms persist or develop you should contact the Breast Care Nursing Team or your own GP within working hours.

Out of hours within the first 7 days after your procedure Ward 31 can be contacted. After this please contact NHS Choices for advice.

(All contact numbers at the end of the leaflet).

• Heavy bleeding.  You should place a clean dry cloth over your wound and press firmly for 10 minutes.

• The area around your biopsy becomes more swollen.

• You feel feverish, unwell or develop a temperature higher than 38°C (100.4°F).

• Your pain increases or you experience chest pain or shortness of breath.

When can I return to my normal activities/work?

You should be able to resume your normal activities, such as driving or going back to work straight away.

However, we advise you to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 24 hours after the procedure.

When will I get my results?

Your consultant will discuss your test with you during your appointment.

The core biopsy sample will be sent to the laboratory for testing. You can usually expect to receive your test results within 2 weeks.

Your GP will also be sent a letter explaining the results of your biopsy.

When the results are available you will be sent a letter which will give you one of the following:

• Your results.

• A further appointment to discuss your results.

• A further appointment to have tests repeated. This can sometimes happen if not enough tissue is collected from the biopsy for the laboratory to examine.

For most patients nothing more will be needed.

Contact numbers

University Hospital North Tees

Breast Care Nursing Team

Telephone: 01642 624371

Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm

Ward 31  

Telephone: 01642 382831  

24 hours a day, 7 days a week  

University Hospital of Hartlepool

Breast Care Nursing Team

Telephone: 01429 522387

Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm

NHS Choices

Telephone: 111 (when it is less urgent that 999)

Calls to this number are free from landlines and mobile phones or via the website at www.nhs.uk

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:

Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617

Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience

We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:

Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:

Email: [email protected]