Suffolk Breast Imaging
Image-Guided Breast Biopsy
What is an Image-guided Breast Biopsy?
An image guided breast needle biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove a small sample of breast tissue for testing when a suspicious finding is seen on a mammogram or ultrasound. Our office offers both stereotactic and ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. Both procedures are similar in the fact that they both use imaging to guide the cell removal process. The exact type of biopsy performed will be tailored to each individual’s situation and based on our radiologist’s expertise.
This procedure allows doctors to make accurate diagnosis without the need for surgery, helping you get the answers you need quickly and with more comfort. A biopsy may be recommended if imaging shows:
- Suspicious lumps or masses
- Areas of calcifications
- Changes to the breast tissue structure
At Suffolk Breast Imaging, we offer both ultrasound-guided and stereotactic breast biopsies:
Ultrasound Guided Biopsy
An ultrasound-guided biopsy uses ultrasound image guidance to target the breast abnormality for biopsy.
Stereotactic Biopsy
A stereotactic breast biopsy uses mammography image guidance to target the breast abnormality for biopsy.
Our center is certified by the American College of Radiology in both breast ultrasound and stereotactic biopsies and our radiologists are specifically trained in breast imaging.
We prioritize your care and comfort throughout the process which is why you are seen by the same dedicated breast radiologist throughout your time of care, from initial screening to biopsy.
Schedule Your Breast biopsy in suffolk county
Suffolk Breast Imaging proudly serves patients from all over Suffolk County and Long Island, including Lake Grove, Smithtown, Stony Brook, Centereach, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, and more surrounding communities.
Call (631) 588-4500 to schedule your breast imaging today.
Preparing for Your Biopsy
Preparations for both ultrasound guided and stereotactic biopsies are the same. A few simple steps can make your visit smooth and stress-free
- If you are prescribed a blood thinner, aspirin or ibuprofen, please contact our office for further instructions as you might need to discontinue these medications before your biopsy.
- Avoid applying deodorant, lotion, perfume, or powder on the day of your exam, as these can affect the clarity of the images
- Wear a two-piece outfit, since you’ll only need to remove your top
- Wear a bra, you will be provided an ice pack after biopsy
- Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and prescription
- Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in
If you have any questions about your upcoming image-guided breast biopsy please call our Lake Grove office at (631) 588-4500.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breast biopsies
Breast biopsies are performed to evaluate abnormalities in cells of breast tissue. Patients are recommended for biopsies after areas of concern are uncovered during mammograms or ultrasounds.
During an image-guided breast biopsy local anesthetic is applied. First, our technologist will use either mammography or ultrasound to target the area of concern on the breast tissue. Then, our radiologists will make a small incision to guide a biopsy needle to collect a sample of the targeted area.
The procedure usually takes 30-60 minutes from start to finish in the office. Much of this time is used to take images and to perform pre and post-biopsy care. The actual time needed for the biopsy itself is usually 10-15 minutes.
You can go home shortly after your biopsy. You may have mild bruising or tenderness, which can be managed with over the counter pain relievers or ice packs as needed.
In most cases, there is no visible scarring as the incision is small. No stitches are needed, and the area typically heals well over time.
After a biopsy, the collected samples are sent to a laboratory to be tested for cancer.
Biopsy results are generally received within 4-7 business days. After receiving results from the laboratory, our doctor calls each patient to discuss the results, and to assist with any follow up care that may be needed.
- If results are abnormal, our doctor and team ensure you get connected with the right specialists for further evaluation and any treatment that may be needed.