GENERAL QUESTIONS:

  • Will I be getting my biopsy when I come in for my consult?
  • No, your initial consult will be just that (a consult) any procedures decided upon during that appointment will need to be scheduled and we will do that asap.
  • I already had an ultrasound done at the imaging facility why do I have to have another one done in your office?
  • If after your initial consult it is determined that you require a breast biopsy the way we locate that area is by ultrasound guidance, so we need to confirm its presence on our machine.

QUESTIONS ABOUT BIOPSIES:

  • Can I drive after my biopsy?
  • Yes.
  • Can I work after my biopsy, will my activities be limited?
  • Yes, though you should avoid any heavy lifting.
  • Will I have pain during my procedure?
  • You may feel some pressure but you should not feel pain during your procedure. If you start to feel any discomfort afterward this can be relieved with Tylenol or Advil.
  • Can I eat before my procedure?
  • Yes, you may eat, drink and take your medications as normal but we ask that you not take any blood thinners for at least 3 days prior to your biopsy (Aspirin, Coumadin or Plavix.)
  • Will I have stitches after my biopsy?
  • No, you will only have tissue adhesives (steri-strips.)
  • How long will it take?
  • The entire procedure time including prep work will last approximately 30 minutes.
  • Will I be awake or asleep during the biopsy?
  • You will be awake during the biopsy. Only local anesthetic is used for this procedure.
  • Will there be a hole at biopsy site?
  • There is a small incision that will not require sutures and will be closed using steri-strips.
  • Will there be a scar?
  • There is a possibility of a very minimal scar.
  • Will there be bruising?
  • It is possible that you may have some minor bruising or swelling.
  • When can I take a shower?
  • You may shower after 24 hours if you must sooner just be sure to keep the biopsy area clean and dry.
  • When can I remove my bandage?
  • The bandage we put in place to minimize bruising and swelling may be removed after 24 hours.
  • When will I get my results?
  • The typical turnaround time for biopsy results is 24-48 hours.
  • Should I call you or will you call me with results?
  • Dr. Rimmer will call you as soon as the results are received. There is no need for you to call the office unless we don’t contact you within 72 hours or 3 business days.
  • Will you need to see me back after my biopsy?
  • Yes, it is important to be able to examine the biopsy site for any signs of infection and we will also be doing a complete review of your biopsy results.

QUESTIONS REGARDING LUMPECTOMY/MASTECTOMY:

  • Can I shower after my Lumpectomy / Mastectomy Surgery?
  • It is best to not shower for about 1 week after your surgery.
  • How soon do you need to see me following my Lumpectomy / Mastectomy?
  • You should have an appointment the following week.
  • Can I drive after my Lumpectomy / Mastectomy?
  • No, at the time of your 1-week post op appointment we can decide if returning to driving and other normal activities is safe.