open biopsy open biopsy an open biopsy is a procedure in which a surgical incision (cut) is made through the skin to expose and remove tissues. the biopsy tissue is examined under a microscope by a pathologist. an open biopsy may be done in the doctor's office or hospital, and may use local anesthesia or general anesthesia. a lumpectomy to remove a breast tumor is a type of open biopsy.