Not wanting a biopsy

vahudi

Hi,

I’m new here. I am 30 years old and discovered a small lump in my breast last year, shortly after I stopped breastfeeding my 4th child.

I went to my family doctor right away and he sent me for an ultrasound and then to a specialist.

The specialist was not concerned about the lump but wanted to do a biopsy, just to be sure.

I looked up biopsies on the internet and read that 80% of biopsies are not cancer. There’s also the study that shows that keeping an eye the lump is a safe alternative.

Nobody ever contacted me about the biopsy so I went back to my family doctor to ask for another ultrasound. He told me that it would be pointless because it would show the same thing and he really pushed me to do the biopsy, saying that it’s not invasive.

I guess I’m looking for reassurance that I’m not crazy for wanting to avoid a biopsy.

Veeder14

Hi Vahudi,

It's good that you went to the doctor to check out the lump. I don't blame you for not wanting a breast biopsy. I would ask what type of biopsy is being suggested~biopsies are invasive but like the needle aspiration is less than the core needle biopsies. Another means of seeing what the lump is would be by MRI but even then biopsies follow that test. Let us know what you decide.

Salamandra

I think the cost benefit analysis of a biopsy would likely come out in favor, so I'm wondering why you would rather not have the biopsy?

If it's benign, it'll be marked, so it wouldn't arise as an area of concern again. If it's not benign, you can get started on addressing it right away. That's even more important now because of your age and hormones tending to increase the rate of cancer growth.

I had an ultrasound guided biopsy and it was really no big deal. It was in the early afternoon and I was back at work the next day, no discomfort or anything. That can vary depending on the location of the biopsy and the skill of the surgeon, but it's really possible for it to be a minor/non-event.

Ingerp

I agree it's highly unlikely that it's anything evil but I like having information. I'll echo that the procedure is not a big deal. I'd be more uncomfortable not knowing, but it's completely your call.

ElaineTherese

I'd get the biopsy. Of all the treatments associated with breast cancer, (surgery, chemo, radiation, port insertion, etc.), the biopsy is a minor procedure. There's no other way to rule out breast cancer.

aseal321

I just had my first ultrasound guided biopsy...I had the MRI and it showed suspicious masses. I had it done a couple of days ago, I am hoping to the results today. I have had mammos/US since I was 28, 40 as of January...and this past year my cysts became complex and then the MRI and biopsy followed. I feel like I will be ok, the results will be benign (most likely), but knowing is just needed for me. I do admit, the whole process sucks, and I felt the same as you...I didn't really want the biopsy but it was necessary and I have two kids that need me. So if I need that little cut and prick, so be it. Its better to know and just get it handled. The process was easy...I didnt even feel the needle and that was before the actual numbing agent was applied! I was shocked at how easy it was...and I am happy that step is over.

I had it done on Wednesday..yesterday I went to the zoo with my 6 year olds kinder class, took it easy because I was still ace wrapped, and iced it when I got home. Today I feel perfect! Make the best decision for you!

teaka123

No harm in a biopsy. No regrets in a biopsy.

PhoenixCruiser

I would have to get the biopsy because not knowing would seriously stress me out.

Cowgirl13

Because of your age and the fact that you have 4 children, please have a biopsy done. My biopsy was very simple and did not hurt at all.

wallycat

I would rather have a b-9 biopsy than a missed cancer. Not saying yours is cancer, but without a biopsy there is no actual way to tell. ALL of my imaging either missed my tumor or showed it as a b-9 mass. The biopsy showed it was cancer. Yes, we have different ages and different circumstances. The point is that I was assured and reassured mine was not cancer. Here you have a doctor indicating you should have a biopsy. I would do it and then you can move on with your life. And if you have daughters, you can protect them with knowledge and being there for them.

edwards750

Please have the biopsy done for peace of mind. It wasn’t a big deal for me and it is the only way to know for sure.

Diane

footballmomma

The peace of mind you will get from knowing will be worth it. I just had a stereo last week that came back benign. Also, on the off chance it is something, the sooner you treat it, the better it will be in the long run. My biopsy procedure was done to minimize my discomfort. I was able to be lying on my side the actual procedure took about 20 minutes. I had zero pain. The recovery was easy. Pain and swelling gone within 48 hours and I have a little bit of a bruise.