Should You Worry About New Breast Lumps After Surgery?

Breast lump

Hello, doctor! Previously, I had a hard lump under my left breast that was growing rapidly, so I had it surgically removed (it was benign).
The attending physician said that a follow-up appointment in a year would be sufficient.
However, besides the surgically removed lump, there is another hard lump above my left breast that was not addressed or biopsied at that time (although it was noted during the ultrasound examination, the doctor did not provide any specific explanation or treatment for this lump).
The lump is oval-shaped, movable, but somewhat firm, measuring about 1.5 cm in length, and it is not painful when pressed.
There is also a smaller lump near the surgical site under my left breast, which is movable, not very noticeable to touch, and not painful when pressed, measuring less than 1 cm.
Given this situation, should I seek an examination promptly, or can I wait until my one-year post-operative follow-up to have everything checked together?

Miss Jian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/28

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Miss Chien / 18 years old / Female
Hello!
1.
There is a hard mass above the left breast that has not been treated or subjected to a biopsy (although it was noted during an ultrasound examination, the doctor did not provide specific explanations or address this mass).
The mass is oval-shaped, movable, but relatively firm, measuring approximately 1.5 cm in length, and does not cause pain upon palpation.

2.
There is also a smaller hard mass located below the left breast near the surgical site.
This mass is movable, not easily palpable, and does not cause pain upon pressure, measuring less than 1 cm in size.
Since this is a new growth, it would be advisable to have the doctor examine it further.
The health insurance does not limit the number of medical visits.
If the first mass grows larger, changes color, becomes harder, or if any new masses appear, it is important to see a doctor again.
Happy New Year, Dr.
Tao
Chen Si-Rong

Reply Date: 2020/01/28

More Info

After undergoing breast surgery, it is natural to have concerns about any new lumps or changes in the breast tissue. In your case, you have mentioned the presence of two lumps: one above the surgical site and another smaller one near the surgical area. Here are some considerations regarding your situation.

Firstly, it is important to understand that the formation of lumps after breast surgery can occur for several reasons. These may include post-surgical changes such as scar tissue formation, fluid accumulation (seromas), or even benign growths like cysts or fibroadenomas. Since you mentioned that the lump above the surgical site is movable and not painful, it is likely a benign condition, but it should still be monitored.

The fact that your surgeon has recommended a follow-up appointment in a year suggests that they believe the risk of malignancy is low at this time. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant about any changes in your breast tissue. If you notice any changes in the size, shape, or texture of the lumps, or if you experience new symptoms such as pain, redness, or discharge, you should seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

In general, if you have any concerns about new lumps or changes in your breast, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or mammogram, to evaluate the lumps further. If necessary, they may also suggest a biopsy to rule out any malignancy.

In your specific case, since the lump above the surgical site was noted during an ultrasound but not addressed at that time, it would be prudent to bring this up during your next appointment. If you feel anxious about waiting for a year, you can request an earlier evaluation to ease your concerns. Early detection and intervention are key in managing breast health, and it is always better to err on the side of caution.

Additionally, it is worth noting that breast tissue can change over time due to hormonal fluctuations, especially in premenopausal women. These changes can sometimes lead to the development of new lumps or changes in existing ones. Keeping track of your breast health through regular self-examinations and being aware of your body is essential.

In summary, while your current lumps may not be a cause for immediate concern, it is essential to stay proactive about your breast health. If you have any doubts or if the lumps change in any way, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are vital components of post-surgical care and breast health management.

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