Uncertainty About My Recent Biopsy Procedures
Hello, I'm a 22-year-old woman who had two biopsies done today at my dermatologist's office—one on my arm for a dark mole and the other on my breast. I'm feeling quite perplexed because they performed shave biopsies for both sites. Is it common practice to use shave biopsies for breast lumps? I believed that procedures like mammograms would typically precede any invasive biopsies, especially given that my lump is located near the skin's surface. This has left me wondering why they opted for a shave biopsy in this instance. Any insights would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Answers (1)
2/18/2026, 2:10:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain after undergoing a medical procedure, especially when it involves biopsies. Let’s clarify the use of shave biopsies and what you can expect moving forward.
Key Points:
- Shave biopsies can be used for superficial skin lesions, including moles and certain breast lumps.
- It's common to perform a shave biopsy if the lesion is accessible and the dermatologist suspects it may be benign.
- The procedure could be done without prior imaging if the dermatologist felt confident based on your physical examination.
Explanation:
Shave biopsies involve removing a thin layer of skin or tissue, which can provide sufficient information to assess the nature of a mole or lump. For superficial breast lumps, especially if they’re close to the skin surface and appear non-threatening, a dermatologist might choose this method to quickly and effectively sample the tissue.
Although mammograms and other imaging studies are typically performed if there are concerns about deeper abnormalities, they may not be necessary for accessible lumps in otherwise healthy individuals. Your dermatologist likely determined that a shave biopsy could adequately address your situation without preceding imaging.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Site: Keep an eye on the sites where biopsies were done. Look for any signs of excessive redness, swelling, or discharge. Mild swelling and tenderness can be normal, but if anything seems unusual, take note.
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Post-Procedure Care: Follow any aftercare instructions provided by your dermatologist. This usually includes keeping the biopsy sites clean and dry, and applying any topical ointments as needed.
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Follow-Up: Ensure you follow up with your dermatologist to discuss the results once they are available. If you have questions or concerns about the biopsy results or the procedure, do not hesitate to reach out for clarification.
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Seek Support: If you are feeling anxious about the biopsies, it can be helpful to talk to someone about your feelings. Support from friends or family, or even a counselor, can help you manage anxiety during this waiting period.
It’s understandable to have questions after such procedures, and you’re not alone in feeling perplexed. If you have further questions as you await your results, don’t hesitate to ask!
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