Join Now
Sign In
Would you share about your breast biopsy experience? What advice would you give others to prepare?
Diseases:
Diseases:
Answer Summary
3
Shared Experiences
member9403 (Survivor (1 year)) - 05 / 22 / 2012
I had a stereotactic biopsy. Which frankly, just seemed weird from the beginning. The doctor who originally told me I'd need to get it and in his explanation, it's kind of like getting an oil change! And in my head I was thinking wtf? Nothing about this is like getting an oil change! You are so weird!
That said, the actual procedure isn't that bad, mostly. I, because I am special, have trouble with local anesthetic - as in it wears off very quickly. (related: my dentist knows to have extra Novocaine for me because it wears off so quickly!) I told them this and the doctor gave me extra and in the middle of the actual biopsy it wore off. (Again I'd like to reiterate this is an issue I've had all my life and in my lifetime I've only met one other person who has the same, so even though I share this story with you, it is not something you should worry about happening to you!). I won't lie. It was not pleasant to have it wear off. I actually yelped and then, just broke into tears. The tears were a combination of pain, fear, anxiety, etc. But when the local wore off and I could feel what was going on, I just couldn't hold it in anymore. Bless the nurses and the doctor because they were quick to give me another shot and try to calm me down, but I was just done. The good news was so was the biopsy. (It actually went very fast).
Advice to others to prepare .... I'm not sure. Other than, if you are feeling nervous about it? Acknowledge that nervousness. It's natural to feel that way. Don't try to ignore (or let that fear make you delay making the appointment). Also, bring someone with you. I didn't bring someone with me. I wish I had. After the biopsy, I went to my car and just burst into tears all over again. And I remember thinking how the heck am I going to get myself home? I calmed down and did manage to make it home, but I do wish someone was there to give me a hug, tell me it would be okay, and then drive me home. I think, even without the local wearing off, I was much more nervous than I allowed myself to realize and just feeling so emotional. Things had been a whirlwind leading up to that moment and I didn't take any time to process that or think about it.
That said, the actual procedure isn't that bad, mostly. I, because I am special, have trouble with local anesthetic - as in it wears off very quickly. (related: my dentist knows to have extra Novocaine for me because it wears off so quickly!) I told them this and the doctor gave me extra and in the middle of the actual biopsy it wore off. (Again I'd like to reiterate this is an issue I've had all my life and in my lifetime I've only met one other person who has the same, so even though I share this story with you, it is not something you should worry about happening to you!). I won't lie. It was not pleasant to have it wear off. I actually yelped and then, just broke into tears. The tears were a combination of pain, fear, anxiety, etc. But when the local wore off and I could feel what was going on, I just couldn't hold it in anymore. Bless the nurses and the doctor because they were quick to give me another shot and try to calm me down, but I was just done. The good news was so was the biopsy. (It actually went very fast).
Advice to others to prepare .... I'm not sure. Other than, if you are feeling nervous about it? Acknowledge that nervousness. It's natural to feel that way. Don't try to ignore (or let that fear make you delay making the appointment). Also, bring someone with you. I didn't bring someone with me. I wish I had. After the biopsy, I went to my car and just burst into tears all over again. And I remember thinking how the heck am I going to get myself home? I calmed down and did manage to make it home, but I do wish someone was there to give me a hug, tell me it would be okay, and then drive me home. I think, even without the local wearing off, I was much more nervous than I allowed myself to realize and just feeling so emotional. Things had been a whirlwind leading up to that moment and I didn't take any time to process that or think about it.
member3301 (Current Patient) - 05 / 22 / 2012
I have the same issues with novocaine and any other local aesthetic. I , at 5'4" 120 lb will need much more than any one else, I've had biopsies, podiatrist and dentist not believe me until I'm screaming pain! It's always been this way for me.
It's frustrating isn't it?!!!!!
Lorraine
It's frustrating isn't it?!!!!!
Lorraine
member1665 (Survivor (2 - 5 years)) - 05 / 23 / 2012
I recently had a breast biopsy where the tissue pathology came back "tissue did not survive processing". I never realized that this can and does happen due to many factors such as sample size, chemical process and things sometimes outside of human error. Fortunately in this case the surgeon felt that the lump was actually being caused by some muscle tissue above the mastectomy scar fused to some scar tissue. He released it. The lump is gone now but the tissue he submitted for biopsy was a precuation.
Similar Questions
Note: All content on this site is informational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with questions regarding your health.
Note: Usernames have been made anonymous and profile images are not shown to protect the privacy of our members.
Thank you for flagging this content. We will look into it right away.
Add Answer
1) Question:
2) Background Info (optional): What context or background information is relevant to this request?
Notes:
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
The more clear and thorough your request, the more likely you will receive support.
Many of our members are learning from this information or english might not be their first language. Please use standard english and spell out all words. For example, use 'you' instead of 'u'.
Newsletters
Share Conversation
To tell people about this conversation, type their email addresses here (separated by commas):
From:
Add a personal note here:
Breast Cancer Updates
Sign up for our
Breast Cancer
updates for the latest news, best answers and featured experts.
Ads keep TalkAboutHealth freeadvertisement
Similar Questions
Updates
Sign up for email updates of the latest news, best answers, and featured experts.
Benefits
Custom health, wellness, & medical offers from our partners including clinical trials, market research opportunities & new programs.
Upcoming Workshops
-
Breast Cancer Oncology
Mon., May 20th
Expert: Katherine Crew, MD -
Melanoma Oncology
Mon., May 20th
Expert: Steven O'Day, MD -
Gastric (Stomach) Cancer Oncology
Tues., May 21st
Expert: Manish Shah, MD -
T-cell Lymphoma
Tues., May 21st
Expert: Francine Foss, MD -
Breast Cancer Oncology
Wed., May 22nd
Expert: Linnea Chap, MD -
Cancer Support and Psychosocial Education
Thurs., May 23rd
Expert: Jeff Kane, MD -
CLL - Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Fri., May 24th
Expert: Jennifer Brown, MD, PhD
SHARE Support
1) Call SHARE at: 866-891-2392
to speak directly to a trained breast cancer survivor for support and guidance.
2) Direct message the trained peer supporter you select.
3) E-mail us at support@talkabouthealth.com, and we will find the right match for you.
More info
to speak directly to a trained breast cancer survivor for support and guidance.
2) Direct message the trained peer supporter you select.
3) E-mail us at support@talkabouthealth.com, and we will find the right match for you.
More info
3 Quick Ways You Can Help
1) Spread the word! Tell people you think might want some support. Tell medical professionals, health providers, and organizations.
2) Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
3) Volunteer - email us at volunteer@talkabouthealth.com for more information.
More Ways To Help!
2) Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
3) Volunteer - email us at volunteer@talkabouthealth.com for more information.
More Ways To Help!
View All Newsletters
