Excision Biopsy Gold Coast

An excision biopsy is an operation to remove a lump or an abnormal area of breast tissue so it can be examined by a pathologist. It shows exactly what the area is, including whether it is benign or cancer.

A needle biopsy is usually done first. An excision biopsy may be recommended if a needle biopsy is not possible, if the result is unclear, or if it shows certain changes, such as atypical cells or a papilloma, where the whole area needs to be examined. Dr Gault will explain the reasons for his recommendation.

Localisation marks the exact position of an area that cannot be felt, so the surgeon can find and remove the right tissue. It is done by a radiologist using a mammogram or ultrasound before your operation.

A radiologist numbs the skin with local anaesthetic, then uses a mammogram or ultrasound to guide a very fine wire into the breast so its tip sits in the area to be removed. The wire is taped in place and stays there until your operation, which is often later the same day. It is removed together with the breast tissue during surgery.

Yes. Some localisation methods use a small marker or seed placed in the breast, sometimes days before surgery, which the surgeon then finds with a special probe. The method used depends on your situation and what is available at the hospital, and Dr Gault will explain which approach applies to you.

No. An excision biopsy is a diagnostic operation to find out what an area is. A wide local excision is a treatment operation that removes a known cancer with a margin of healthy tissue around it.

An excision biopsy is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and is often done as day surgery. Dr Gault operates at Pindara Private Hospital, Benowa.

The tissue is examined by a pathologist, and results usually take several days. Dr Gault will go through your results with you at your follow-up appointment and explain what they mean.

If the result shows cancer, further treatment will be planned with you. This may include further surgery to make sure there is a clear margin of healthy tissue, and surgery to check the lymph nodes in the armpit. Your care is planned within a multidisciplinary team, and Dr Gault will explain every option.

Like any surgery, an excision biopsy carries risks. These can include infection, bleeding or bruising, a build-up of fluid under the wound, a scar, a change in the shape of the breast and, occasionally, the need for further surgery if the area is not fully removed. There are also risks associated with the anaesthetic. Dr Gault will explain the risks that apply to you before surgery.

Waiting for results can be stressful. You will have access to our breast care nurse, Julie, who can explain each step, answer your questions alongside Dr Gault and connect you with other support services if you need them.

Costs vary depending on the procedure, whether localisation is needed, the hospital and your level of health insurance cover. Please contact our rooms on (07) 5539 3999 to discuss the likely costs for your situation. You may also wish to check with your private health fund about your cover and any excess.

You can book by calling (07) 5539 3999 or by sending a message through the Quick Enquiry form on this page. A referral from your GP or another medical practitioner is needed to claim a Medicare rebate for your consultation. Our rooms are at Suite 11, Pindara Place, 13 Carrara Street, Benowa QLD 4217.