A breast biopsy involves taking a tissue sample from a portion of the breast and having it examined by a pathologist using microscopic methods.

When a suspicious area is identified through mammography, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging, it is performed to determine the type of cells the suspicious area consists of and whether it contains cancer cells. If the biopsy result is benign, surgical intervention is not necessary. The breast is a cosmetic organ, and surgery for benign findings can damage the cosmetic and result in unnecessary anesthesia.

A biopsy is performed to determine whether surgery is necessary for the suspicious area and to determine the type and extent of the procedure.