If a biopsy shows that the lump is a fibroadenoma, the lump may be left in place or removed.
The decision to remove the lump is made by the patient and the surgeon. Reasons to have it removed include:
- Abnormal biopsy results
- Shape of the breast has changed
- Worry or concern about cancer
If the lump is left in place, it may be watched over time with:
- Mammogram
- Physical examination
- Ultrasound
Alternative treatments include removing the lump with a needle and destroying the lump without removing it (such as by freezing, in a process called
Support Groups
Expectations (prognosis)
Women with fibroadenoma have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer later in life. Lumps that are not removed should be checked regularly by physical exams and imaging tests, following the doctor's recommendations.
Complications
If the lump is left in place and carefully watched, it may need to be removed at a later time if it changes, grows, or doesn't go away.
In very rare cases, the lump may be cancerous and you may need further treatment.
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you have a lump that is thought to be a fibroadenoma and it grows or changes in any way.
Previous Section
Review Date: 01/24/2011
Reviewed By: Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery practice specializing
in breast cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle,
Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
