I had the open biopsy as well. Mine was my upper left thigh. I concur with Kristie in regards to pain.

I have about a 3 inch scar now, and all I felt was a lot of tugging, not really pain. It was stitched up at several levels too and it took about 45 minutes.

Afterwards, I got two "complementary" ace bandages to keep it wrapped up and to try to keep the swelling down. I was able to walk, but I did not want to keep weight on the leg for very long. So do not plan on being able to stand on it, but you can hobble to places quickly. Make sure you keep the bandages on.

Mine was done right before new years, and my family wanted me to come to the family dinner - so I did, trying very carefully to stay away from everyone and sit a lot. All this worked out well until my husband's cousin - his cousin who who was trying to demonstrate to her kids who were goofing around and sitting on each other that they were silly - who suddenly decided to come over and SAT on my leg. I screamed. That ended the party. I am such a party pooper.