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This handout will review how to care for yourself after a breast core biopsy. If you took anti-anxiety medicine before this procedure, do not drive until medicine effects have worn-off. Do not drink alcohol or take muscle relaxants, anxiety medicines or other medicines that make you drowsy for the next 24 hours.
Site Care
Apply ice for 15 minutes every 2 hours while awake for the first 24 hours. Then, use ice as needed to reduce swelling and pain.
Wear a support bra, like a sports bra, for 24-48 hours.
You may remove the gauze bandage over the biopsy site after 24 hours. You will have thin strips of tape or Steri-Strips over the site. These will loosen and come off on their own in about 5 days. If they are still in place after 5 days, you may gently peel them off.
You may shower after 24 hours. Do not soak in a bath or pool for 48 hours.
Pain
You may have some pain and bruising. It should go away in about a week. You may take Tylenol for the first 24 hours if you do not have liver problems. You may resume taking aspirin or ibuprofen 24 hours after the biopsy (if no signs of bleeding) or as directed by your doctor.
Blood Thinners
Ask your doctor when you can resume taking Coumadin, aspirin, or other blood thinners.
Activity
Avoid forceful arm movements, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours. You may resume your normal routine the next day or as directed by your doctor.
Results
Your biopsy results should be ready in 3-4 working days. Your doctor or the Breast Center staff will call you with your results.
When to Call
Fever over 100.4° F for two readings taken 4 hours apart
Increased swelling, firmness, redness or warmth
Pus around the site
Heavy bleeding from the site
Who to Call
Call your doctor or the Breast Center if you have questions or concerns about your care.
UW Health Breast Center at the Clinical Sciences Center (Highland Avenue)
Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
608-266-6400
After hours, call 608-262-2122. Ask for the radiologist on call. Give your name and number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.
Breast Center at 1 S Park Medical Center
Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
608-282-8190
After hours, call 608-417-6000. Ask for the radiologist on call at Meriter/Unity Point Hospital.
