Anne C. Pappas Center for Breast Imaging

Breast Needle Biopsy

Once an abnormality or lump is seen on a breast imaging test, a breast needle biopsy may be performed to further examine the tissue. In most cases, the area needing the biopsy is not cancer, but performing a biopsy is the only way to achieve an accurate diagnosis.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, approximately 1 million breast biopsies are performed each year; 60 to 80 percent show benign (non-cancerous) results. There is a high likelihood that undergoing a breast biopsy will not result in the need to have breast surgery. 

A breast biopsy requires very little recovery time and has no significant scarring associated with it.

For more information about breast needle biopsy, you can speak to one of our experts by calling 401-444-7770, or by emailing imaging@lifespan.org.