Tests and Procedures

Breast biopsy

Risks

Risks associated with a breast biopsy include:

  • Bruising and swelling of the breast
  • Infection or bleeding at the biopsy site
  • Altered breast appearance, depending on how much tissue is removed and how the breast heals
  • Additional surgery or other treatment, depending on biopsy results

Contact your health care team if you develop a fever, if the biopsy site becomes red or warm, or if you have unusual drainage from the biopsy site. These can be signs of an infection that may require prompt treatment.