Needle biopsy or lumpectomy for a breast lump

I have had several benign breast lumps removed. Now I have another lump and my surgeon thinks it is also benign. Should I just have it removed or have a needle biopsy first?

Usually you would be advised to have an examination of the lump by a doctor, as well as a mammogram and ultrasound and needle biopsy. These tests are 98% accurate in diagnosing benign lumps. If any of the tests are unclear your doctor may advise that you have further tests (such as an MRI scan of the breast) or have the lump removed.

Some women like to have benign breast lumps removed so they no longer have to worry about them. In that case you do not necessarily need a needle biopsy first. The lump can be thoroughly examined in the pathology lab after it has been removed.

You may be interested in other CancerHelp UK question and answers about different types of breast lumps. And there is information about all the tests used to diagnose breast cancer in the main breast cancer section of CancerHelp UK.