Prior to your biopsy, please inform your doctor if you:
- Are taking any medications, and which medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines or herbal remedies, especially Gingko Biloba, Dong Quai, fish oil, Black Cohash and mandarin tea.
- Have bleeding problems, or are taking any medications that are blood thinners. These include aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Exedrin, Feldene, Vitamin E, Heparin, Coumadin, and Plavix. If you are taking any of these medications, your doctor may want you to stop them up to two weeks before the biopsy.
- Are allergic to any medications.
- Are pregnant, or think you might be pregnant.
The day of the biopsy, please:
- Do not wear deodorant, powder, perfumes or lotions under your arms, or anywhere above your waist.
- Leave your jewelry at home.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Wear a supportive bra or sports bra, or bring one with you.
If the biopsy will be performed using local anesthesia, there are no special preparations necessary. You will be awake during your biopsy, and should feel little or no pain.
It is not usually necessary to have stitches; a small bandage or a compression dressing is usually enough. Most patients resume their normal routine right away. For some biopsies you will be given a complete list of "aftercare" instructions.