Biopsy: What It Is, Types, Procedure, and Results

What Is a Biopsy?

A biopsy is a simple medical test that helps doctors understand what is happening inside your body. During the test, a small piece of tissue or a few cells are taken from an area that needs to be checked. These samples are then looked at under a microscope to see if they are normal or if there are any changes that might explain your symptoms.

Biopsies are done in many different parts of the body: such as the skin, liver, breast, or kidneys, depending on where the doctor needs to look.

Why and When Is a Biopsy Needed?

Doctors usually suggest a biopsy when they need more information about something unusual found during another test. It helps them understand what’s really happening in your body, rather than just guessing based on images or numbers.

Having a biopsy doesn’t always mean you have cancer or something serious. Many biopsies are done to check harmless conditions or to make sure everything is fine.

A biopsy may be recommended if:

• A lump or swelling is found in the body
• A mole or skin patch looks different from usual
• An organ, such as the liver or kidney, is not working normally
• Blood tests or scan show unusual results

Types of Biopsies

Doctors use different kinds of biopsies depending on the part of the body they need to check. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Needle biopsy: A thin needle is used to take a small sample of tissue or fluid. It’s quick and often doesn’t require any cuts.
• Surgical biopsy (incisional or excisional): Some part of the area in question is removed through a minor surgery. Excisional biopsies remove the entire area, while incisional biopsies take only a small piece.
• Punch biopsy: A round tool is used to remove a tiny piece of skin. It’s often used for skin problems or rashes.
• Endoscopic biopsy: A flexible tube with a camera (called an endoscope) is gently inserted into the body: through the mouth, nose, or another opening, to collect a sample from organs like the stomach, lungs, or colon.
• Stereotactic biopsy: This uses a special imaging machine to guide the needle to the exact spot, often in the breast or other areas that are hard to reach.

Before and During the Procedure

Before a biopsy, your doctor or nurse will explain what will happen and give instructions to help you prepare. This might include things like not eating for a short time or avoiding certain medications. 

Most biopsies are done under local anesthesia, which means the area is numbed so you shouldn’t feel sharp pain. You may feel some pressure, tugging, or mild discomfort while the sample is being collected, but the procedure is generally quick and safe.

How long does a biopsy take?

The answer depends on the type of biopsy, but most last less than 30 minutes. Surgical biopsies or more complex procedures may take a little longer.

After the Biopsy

After a biopsy, most people can go home the same day. It’s normal to have some mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the site where the sample was taken. You may also notice a small amount of bleeding, which usually stops quickly.

To help the area heal:

• Keep the biopsy site clean and dry.
• Follow any instructions from your doctor about changing bandages or dressings.
• Avoid heavy exercise or activities that could irritate the area for a few days.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed, but only as your doctor advises.

You should contact your doctor if you notice:

• Increased pain or swelling
• Heavy bleeding or fluid that looks unusual
• Redness, warmth, or pus at the site
• Fever or feeling unwell

Are there any risks or limitations to a biopsy?

While biopsies are usually safe, a few small risks can occur:

• Pregnancy: Some types of biopsies, especially those involving imaging or anesthesia, may be delayed or modified to protect the baby.
• Bleeding disorders: People with clotting problems may need special preparation or extra monitoring.
• Infections at the biopsy site: If the area is already infected, the doctor may wait until it heals.
• Hard-to-reach areas: In some organs or deep tissues, it might be difficult to get a clear sample safely.
• Sample quality: Sometimes the collected tissue is too small or unclear, and the biopsy must be repeated.

Even with these possibilities, biopsies remain a reliable way for doctors to understand your health and decide the best next steps.

Getting Results and Next Steps

After a biopsy, you may need to wait a few days to a couple of weeks for the results. The exact time depends on the type of biopsy and the tests needed to examine the sample.

When the results are ready, your doctor will explain what they mean. If the tissue looks normal, you may not need any further tests. If something unusual is found, your doctor will discuss the next steps, which could include:

• Additional tests to get more information
• A follow-up appointment to monitor the area
• A treatment plan if necessary