Had a Breast Biopsy? What Comes Next?

You did it. You had your breast biopsy—and whether you’re feeling a little sore, anxious, relieved, or just plain tired, we want you to know: you’re not alone.

At Atlanta Ultrasound, we’ve supported countless women through this journey, and we understand how personal and emotional it can be. That’s why we created this simple guide—to help you know what to expect next, and to remind you that you’re in safe, caring hands.

What Is a Breast Biopsy, Again?

Let’s start with a quick refresher:
A breast biopsy is a procedure that removes a small piece of breast tissue so it can be looked at under a microscope. It’s usually done after a mammogram or ultrasound shows something unusual, like a lump or a shadow.

The goal? To find out exactly what’s going on.

Right After the Biopsy: What’s Normal?

Here’s what most women experience after a biopsy:

• Soreness or Tenderness
  It’s completely normal to feel a little sore in the area for a day or two. You can use a cold pack, wear a soft bra, and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

• Bruising
  Some bruising is expected and might even look worse before it gets better. This is part of the healing process.

• Bandage Care
  You’ll go home with a small bandage or gauze over the biopsy site. Keep the area dry and clean for at least 24–48 hours, unless your doctor gives you other instructions.

• Tiredness or Emotion
  It’s okay to feel a little off emotionally. This is a vulnerable moment, and you’ve just taken a big step. Be kind to yourself.

Waiting for Results: The Hardest Part

After your biopsy, the sample is sent to a lab. A pathologist will examine it and determine whether the cells are:

• Benign (non-cancerous)

• Atypical (slightly abnormal but not cancer)

• Malignant (cancerous)

This process usually takes a few days—up to a week in some cases. And yes, the waiting can be the hardest part. Here’s what we suggest:

Stay busy, not stressed: Take walks, spend time with loved ones, or treat yourself to a movie or favorite meal.
Limit internet deep-dives: Googling symptoms or statistics can fuel worry. Trust your care team.
Reach out for support: If you need to talk, we’re always just a phone call away.

What Happens After Results?

Your next step will depend on your results:

• If It’s Benign
  That’s great news. You might just need routine follow-ups or imaging every so often.

• If It’s Atypical
  Your doctor may recommend closer monitoring or even preventive treatment, depending on your personal risk factors.

• If It’s Malignant
  If cancer is found, your care team will walk you through treatment options like surgery, radiation, or medication. Remember: early detection saves lives, and you’ve already taken a major proactive step.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your provider right away if you notice:

• Severe pain or swelling

• Redness or warmth around the biopsy site

• Fever

• Bleeding that won’t stop

These could be signs of an infection or reaction and should be checked out quickly.

You’re Stronger Than You Think

At Atlanta Ultrasound, we believe knowledge is power—and that healing begins with support. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure, just know that you're not expected to do this alone.

For those seeking expert ultrasound services, Atlanta Ultrasound offers quick, efficient, and comprehensive scans. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing you with the clarity and care you need.

Contact us today to schedule your ultrasound scan and take a decisive step towards understanding your health.

📍 Multiple locations in Metro Atlanta, GA

📞 Contact: 678-590-3300

🌐 Website: www.atlantaultrasound.com

Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by a sonographer, is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, nor should it substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns.