Biopsies take a small sample of tissue from the breast for analysis. There are a number of methods depending on the growth: Fine needle biopsies are used on fluid filled lumps to drain the abscess. Core-Needle biopsies are a local anaesthetic procedure to take a sample of the breast tissue using a hollow needle. Surgical Biopsies are also local anaesthetic procedures, performed by a surgeon, and remove the lump through a series of small incisions. After a biopsy, the sample can be analysed for cancerous cells.