Evaluation and treatment of breast lumps
Finding a lump in the breast is frightening. Most turn out to be benign — fluid-filled cysts are among the commonest causes, particularly between the ages of 35 and 50.
Every new or changing breast lump deserves proper evaluation rather than waiting to see what happens.
Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs and are usually non-cancerous. They are common in the years before menopause and often change with the menstrual cycle. That said, a cyst cannot be distinguished from a solid lump by feel alone — an ultrasound makes that distinction quickly and painlessly. Any new or changing breast lump should be evaluated, which either settles the worry or identifies something at the stage when it is most treatable.
Understanding the Condition
A breast cyst is a fluid-filled sac within the breast tissue. Cysts are common, particularly between the ages of 35 and 50, and are usually non-cancerous.
They may occur singly or in groups and vary considerably in size. Some are too small to feel and are found only on a scan; others are large enough to be noticed easily and may feel tender.
Many cysts change with the menstrual cycle, becoming more prominent or tender in the days before a period.
Warning Signs
You may notice any of the following.
Some changes should be seen promptly: a rapidly enlarging lump, skin dimpling or puckering, nipple discharge, a change in breast shape, or swelling in the underarm area. These are not listed to alarm you, but because early evaluation gives the best outcome if something does need treating.
Causes & Risk Factors
Breast cysts are related to normal changes in breast tissue.
Treatment
Many cysts need no treatment at all. Where a cyst is large, painful or uncertain on imaging, aspiration or removal may be recommended.
Treatment decisions are individualised based on examination and imaging findings.
What to Expect
A clinical breast examination and a discussion of what you have noticed and when.
A painless scan distinguishes a fluid-filled cyst from a solid lump.
Where a cyst is large or symptomatic, fluid can be drawn off with a fine needle.
Follow-up confirms resolution, or arranges further assessment if anything remains uncertain.
Your Surgeon
Dr. Kamalakkhannan is an experienced general, laparoscopic and laser surgeon with over 15 years of expertise across a wide range of surgical conditions.
Breast evaluation is carried out with care and privacy, and findings are explained clearly rather than left vague.
Why Patients Choose Lapser
Extensive experience across general, laparoscopic and laser surgical procedures.
Examination and, where needed, imaging come before any talk of treatment.
Many of these conditions need monitoring rather than surgery, and you will be told so plainly.
Recommendations based on your findings, symptoms and individual circumstances.
Where an incision is needed, techniques aim for the least visible result possible.
Consultations every day, including evenings, at Sithalapakkam and Velachery.
Book a consultation if you have any of the following.
Early evaluation helps identify the most appropriate treatment and often provides reassurance.
Frequently Asked
Breast cysts are usually non-cancerous. Evaluation with examination and ultrasound confirms the diagnosis.
Some resolve without treatment, particularly with hormonal changes. Others persist and may be aspirated if they cause symptoms.
Fine-needle aspiration is a quick procedure and discomfort is usually brief and mild.
Cysts can recur. Recurrence does not in itself indicate anything sinister, though repeated cysts in the same place are reassessed.
Yes. Most lumps are benign, but examination and imaging are the only way to establish that.
This depends on your age and findings. Your surgeon will advise which investigations are appropriate for you.
If you have found a lump or noticed a change in your breast, an evaluation will tell you what it is. Most turn out to be benign — and knowing is far better than wondering.
The information on this page is for general awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A lump can only be characterised through clinical examination and appropriate investigations, and any new or changing lump should be assessed by a qualified doctor. This page does not describe cancer treatment; where investigations raise that possibility, you will be advised on the appropriate specialist pathway.
