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Monday, December 07, 2009 Angella asks

Q: I am 27 and have a 16mm benign breast lump. Should I remove it?

I am 27. I first noticed a lump on my right breast when I was 22 or 23. I didn't know what it was. It has since grown bigger and is now 16mm. I took ultrasound and the doctor said it is benign. Should I remove it? One doctor said to wait after I'm married and possibly have a kid. There is no history of breast cancer in my family.

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide
12/ 7/09 12:12pm

Angella, it's up to you whether you want to remove it. Also probably up to your insurance company, and your ability to pay should insurance not cover it. Did the ultrasound reveal that this is a cyst? If so, you could have it drained. If not, how does the doctor know it's a benign lump, unless you've had a biopsy?

 

Once you determine that this is indeed a benign lump (and don't let the doctor tell you "you're too young for breast cancer"), if it would give you greater peace of mind to have it removed, then you should definitely consider it. There's no evidence that leaving it where it is will increase your risk for breast cancer; but it might continue to grow and eventually become painful, which would be reason to take care of it sooner ratehr than later. Good luck - PJH

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By Angella— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 12/07/09