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Breast lumps explained
Breast tissue naturally feels a little lumpy, and it changes with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breastfeeding and age. A breast lump is an area that feels different from the rest of the breast. Common, non-cancerous causes include:
- Fibroadenoma: a smooth, firm, rubbery lump that moves under the fingers; most common in women aged 15–35
- Breast cyst: a fluid-filled sac, common in women aged 35–50
- Fibrocystic changes: lumpiness and tenderness that varies with periods
- Breast abscess: a painful, red, hot collection of pus, often during breastfeeding
- Fat necrosis, lipoma and other benign conditions
A smaller number of lumps are breast cancer, which is now the most common cancer among women in India. Early diagnosis greatly improves outcomes, which is why every new lump deserves a proper check.
Men can also develop breast swelling (gynaecomastia) and, rarely, breast cancer. Any firm lump in a man's breast, especially one to the side of the nipple, should also be checked.
Symptoms to notice
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit
- A change in the size or shape of a breast
- Skin changes: dimpling, puckering, redness or an "orange-peel" look
- Nipple changes: newly pulled in, rash, or discharge (especially blood-stained)
- Pain, redness and fever (suggesting an abscess)
Causes and risk factors
Benign lumps are linked to normal hormonal changes. Factors that raise the risk of breast cancer include increasing age, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, early periods or late menopause, having a first child late or not at all, not breastfeeding, obesity after menopause, alcohol, and inactivity. Many women with breast cancer have no known risk factor, so any lump should be checked regardless.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for any new breast lump, even if it's painless. Seek prompt care if you notice:
- A hard, fixed or irregular lump, or a lump in the armpit
- Skin dimpling, an inverted nipple that is new, or blood-stained discharge
- A red, hot, very painful breast with fever (possible abscess)
How breast lumps are diagnosed at Samrijo
Doctors use a "triple assessment":
- Clinical examination of both breasts and armpits, in a private room. You can ask for a female attendant to be present.
- Imaging: breast ultrasound (usually first in women under 35–40) and/or mammography (usually in older women).
- Biopsy if needed: a thin needle (FNAC) or a core needle biopsy under local anaesthesia, sent for tissue diagnosis.
Combining all three gives a reliable answer in most cases.
Treatment options
If a biopsy shows cancer, treatment is planned by a multidisciplinary team, and we will guide you to appropriate specialist care without delay.
What to expect with lump excision
Before
Tests, and a clear explanation of where the cut will be. Local or general anaesthesia depending on the lump. Fast if general anaesthesia is planned.
During
Most excisions take under an hour.
After
Many women go home the same day. Wear a supportive bra for comfort. Mild pain and bruising settle within days to weeks.
Results
The tissue report usually comes in a few days; your surgeon will explain it at follow-up.
Breast self-awareness
Get to know how your breasts normally look and feel. Once a month, a few days after your period ends (or on a fixed date after menopause), look in a mirror for changes in shape or skin, then feel each breast and armpit with the flat of your fingers, in small circles, lying down and standing. You are not looking for cancer; you are learning what is normal for you, so you'll notice a change early. Women over 40, or with a strong family history, should also ask a doctor about regular screening.
Myths and facts
- "A painful lump can't be cancer." Most painful lumps are benign, but pain doesn't rule cancer out.
- "A needle biopsy spreads cancer." This is a common fear, but there is no good evidence for it. Biopsy is essential for correct treatment.
- "Only older women get breast lumps." Benign lumps are most common in young women.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What do you think this lump is, and how certain can we be without a biopsy?
- Do I need an ultrasound, a mammogram, or both?
- If it is benign, can it safely be watched, and how often should I be checked?
- If removal is advised, where will the scar be, and will it change the shape of my breast?
- Can I continue breastfeeding during treatment (if relevant)?
Why choose Samrijo Hospital
- Private, respectful examinations, explained before they begin.
- Surgeon-led care by Dr. Arun Kumar Patel (MBBS, MS General Surgery).
- Clear explanations at each step, and prompt referral when specialist care is needed.
Cost
Cost depends on imaging, biopsy, the procedure, anaesthesia and stay. Call 93196 62944 for an estimate.
स्तन में गाँठ की जाँच और ऑपरेशन, बुराड़ी
स्तन में गाँठ महसूस होना डराने वाला हो सकता है, पर ज़्यादातर गाँठें कैंसर नहीं होतीं। फ़ाइब्रोएडिनोमा (चिकनी, सख़्त, हिलने वाली गाँठ), सिस्ट (पानी की थैली), माहवारी से जुड़ा गाँठपन और स्तनपान के दौरान फोड़ा आम कारण हैं। फिर भी हर नई गाँठ की जाँच ज़रूरी है, क्योंकि जल्दी पहचाना गया कैंसर बेहतर तरीके से ठीक होता है।
Samrijo Hospital, बुराड़ी में निजी कमरे में जाँच होती है, और आप महिला स्टाफ़ की मौजूदगी का अनुरोध कर सकती हैं। जाँच, अल्ट्रासाउंड या मैमोग्राम, और ज़रूरत हो तो सुई से बायोप्सी से सही कारण पता चलता है। छोटी, सामान्य गाँठों पर नज़र रखी जा सकती है; बड़ी या बढ़ती गाँठ को छोटे चीरे से निकाला जाता है। त्वचा में गड्ढा, निप्पल से खून या बगल में गाँठ दिखे तो जल्दी दिखाएँ।
अपॉइंटमेंट के लिए कॉल करें: 93196 62944।
Frequently asked questions
Is every breast lump cancer?
No. Most breast lumps, especially in younger women, are benign (not cancer), such as fibroadenomas, cysts or changes linked to periods. But every new lump should be checked by a doctor, because only tests can tell for sure.
Does a fibroadenoma need to be removed?
Not always. Small fibroadenomas confirmed by tests can often be watched. Removal may be advised if it is large, growing, painful, causing worry, or if the test results are not fully clear.
Will breast lump surgery leave a big scar?
Surgeons plan the cut to be as small and well-hidden as possible, often along the edge of the areola or a natural skin crease. Most scars fade over months.
Is the examination done by a male doctor? Can I have a female attendant?
You can request a female staff member to be present during the examination. Please mention it when you book.
Do you treat breast cancer?
We evaluate breast lumps and arrange biopsies. If cancer is found, treatment usually involves a team (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy), and we will guide you to appropriate specialist care.
What does breast lump surgery cost?
It depends on the tests needed (ultrasound, mammogram, biopsy), the size and number of lumps, anaesthesia and stay. Call 93196 62944 for an estimate.
क्या स्तन की हर गाँठ कैंसर होती है?
नहीं। ज़्यादातर गाँठें, ख़ासकर कम उम्र की महिलाओं में, कैंसर नहीं होतीं, जैसे फ़ाइब्रोएडिनोमा या सिस्ट। फिर भी हर नई गाँठ की जाँच ज़रूरी है।
क्या जाँच के समय महिला स्टाफ़ मौजूद रह सकती है?
हाँ, आप जाँच के समय महिला स्टाफ़ की मौजूदगी का अनुरोध कर सकती हैं। अपॉइंटमेंट लेते समय बता दें।
Related treatments
This page is for general health information only. It is not a diagnosis or a substitute for a consultation. Every patient is different, so please consult a qualified doctor about your own condition and treatment. Medical disclaimer.