Biopsy Of The Breast

Before having a biopsy, it is advisable to:

• Pause taking blood thinning medications for a few days before the biopsy because of an increased risk of persistent bleeding after a biopsy.
• Ask about when to start taking an oral antibiotic. Antibiotics are often given to protect against potential infection after a biopsy. Antibiotics are generally started the day before, or the day of, a biopsy.
• Ask any and all questions you may have about the biopsy. (For suggested questions, see the section of this document about Questions To Ask). 
• Check to see that the consent form you will be asked to sign before the procedure describes what you think you have agreed to, including the identity of the person you think will be performing the procedure.
• Check to see that the person who will perform the biopsy is covered by your insurance. Do not assume that just because the facility is covered, the doctor is also covered by your insurance.
• Consider whether to get a second opinion from a radiologist or surgical oncologist who is not connected with the originating doctor or facility. This is particularly the case if the recommendation is a surgical biopsy. If you decide to get a second opinion:
  • Find out from the doctor that will provide the second opinion what documentation is needed. Generally this will be the original biopsy records rather than a copy.
  • Check to find out whether the second opinion will be covered by your health insurance. If so, what portion will you have to pay? If insurance does not cover it, find out how much the second opinion will cost. (The document in "To Learn More" helps figure out how to get uninsured treatments.)

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