Home Care

To care for the biopsy area and prevent infection:

• You may go home with a dressing. Follow your doctor's instructions on when you can remove the bandage.
• Keep the biopsy area clean and dry. Ask your doctor about when it is safe to shower, bathe, or soak in water.
• If you go home with a drain in place, follow your doctor's instructions on how to empty the drain and keep track of the amount of drainage.

You may be given other instructions depending on the site of your biopsy. For example, you may be asked to avoid using deodorant if your biopsy site is under your arm.

Physical Activity

Do not put extra pressure or strain on the surgery area. For example, if you had a biopsy under your arm, avoid lifting until it heals.

Return to normal activity slowly, once the doctor has said it is safe to do so.

Ask your doctor when you will be able to return to work. Do not drive unless your doctor has said it is okay.

Medications

Over-the-counter or prescription medicine can help to manage pain.

When taking medicine:

• Take the medicine as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.
• Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.
• Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medicine.
• Do not share your prescription medicine.
• Medicine can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than 1 medicine, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

If you had to stop medicine before the procedure, ask your doctor when you can start again.