Breast Biopsy

A breast biopsy provides a sample of tissue that doctors use to identify and diagnose abnormalities in the cells that make up breast lumps, other unusual breast changes, or suspicious or concerning findings on a mammogram or ultrasound. The lab report from the breast biopsy can help determine whether you need additional surgery or other treatment. Bayside Imaging provided breast biopsies are offered only at our Emeryville location and include:

  • MRI Breast Biopsy
  • Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy
  • Ultrasound-Guided AX LN Biopsy

Which procedure you have is determined by your doctor who may recommend a particular procedure based on the size, location and other characteristics of the breast abnormality. If it’s not clear why you’re having one type of biopsy instead of another, ask your doctor to explain.


Examination Instructions


Arrival time for appointment

PLEASE ARRIVE 30 MINS PRIOR TO YOUR SCAN TIME. LATE ARRIVALS MAY RESULT IN RESCHEDULING OF YOUR SCAN TO A LATER DATE. Patients that do not show or cancel less than 24 hours prior to their appointment may be charged.


Appointment Instructions

Allow up to 2 hours for the total exam process

To ensure the safety of our patients and staff, only the patient will be allowed into the scan area. Anyone that accompanies the patient will be limited to the waiting area and may be allowed in patient areas at the sole discretion of the staff. Thank you for your understanding.

  • No fasting
  • Take all meds except blood thinners. STOP blood thinners 3-5 days prior to biopsy.
  • Coumadin, Plavix, Effient, Brilinta – stop 5 days. Eliquis, Pradaxa, Savaysa, Xarelto – stop 3 days. Lovenox- stop 1 day.