Small Hard Lump in Accessory Breast: Should I See a Specialist?

There is a small hard lump in the accessory breast tissue?

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I accidentally found a round lump estimated to be about 0.5 cm in size, located slightly below the right breast's accessory nipple.
Since the lump is not on the surface of the breast, it is not easy to feel unless intentionally pressed.
Over the past month, it does not seem to have significantly increased in size, and there is no pain when pressed.
I have looked into related consultation cases, and most suggest seeing a hospital for diagnosis when the lump is 2-3 cm or larger, and mine is even smaller.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor if I should see a breast surgeon or if I can continue to monitor it.
Thank you for your response!

CC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/20

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid

Young girls may often experience the presence of lumps in their breasts; however, the presence of these lumps does not necessarily indicate the existence of a tumor.
It is essential to perform an ultrasound to confirm whether a tumor is present.

Reply Date: 2023/11/20

More Info

When it comes to the discovery of a small hard lump in the breast or accessory breast tissue, it is always prudent to consult a specialist, especially if there are any changes or concerns regarding the lump. In your case, you mentioned that you found a small, approximately 0.5 cm round lump in your right accessory breast about a month ago. It’s reassuring that the lump has not increased in size and does not cause pain upon pressure. However, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to seek further evaluation from a breast specialist.

Firstly, while the size of the lump is relatively small, it is important to remember that breast lumps can vary widely in their nature. Some lumps can be benign, such as fibroadenomas or cysts, while others may require further investigation to rule out malignancy. The fact that the lump is not easily palpable unless pressed does not necessarily indicate that it is harmless. Many benign conditions can present in this manner, but it is always better to err on the side of caution.

Secondly, the duration of the lump's presence is also a consideration. You mentioned that it has been present for about a month without significant changes. While many benign lumps remain stable, any new lump that appears should be evaluated, especially if it persists over time. The general recommendation is to have any new breast lump evaluated by a healthcare professional, regardless of its size, especially if it is new or different from what you have experienced before.

Additionally, personal and family medical history plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other breast-related issues, it would be advisable to consult a specialist sooner rather than later. Even in the absence of a family history, regular breast examinations and screenings are recommended, particularly for women over the age of 40 or those with risk factors.

In terms of the potential next steps, a breast specialist may recommend imaging studies such as a breast ultrasound or mammogram, depending on your age and risk factors. These imaging studies can provide valuable information about the characteristics of the lump and help determine whether a biopsy is necessary. A biopsy, while it may sound intimidating, is a common procedure that can provide definitive answers regarding the nature of the lump.

In conclusion, while the lump you described is small and asymptomatic, it is advisable to consult a breast specialist for a thorough evaluation. This will not only provide peace of mind but also ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Early detection and diagnosis are key in managing breast health effectively. If you feel uncertain or anxious about the lump, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. They can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions regarding your health. Remember, it is always better to be proactive when it comes to your health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Accessory Breasts: Pain, Surgery, and Concerns

I would like to ask the doctor about a hard lump in my armpit that is painful to touch and has been present for many years. Initially, when I consulted a doctor, it was diagnosed as folliculitis, but there was no external injury or redness. Recently, it has started to hurt again,...

Dr. Li Junde reply Surgery
Hello, Ms. Shin: If the lump in your right armpit changes in a manner similar to that of your breast during your menstrual cycle, it is likely a supernumerary breast tissue, which is a congenital ectopic remnant of breast tissue and is considered a benign lesion. If it is not cau...

Understanding Breast Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention

I am a middle school student and recently discovered a hard lump in my left breast that hurts when pressed, and there are many small bumps. Is this normal? Do I need to see a doctor?

Dr. Wu Yuting reply Surgery
Hello, Shang Long: It is recommended to seek medical consultation! * Breast Surgery, Xinying Hospital * Dr. Wu Yu-Ting

Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor, about two weeks ago I discovered an irregular hard lump in my groin area. It doesn't hurt when pressed, and there are no visible changes on the skin surface. It has since shrunk, but it feels like there are small bumps on top. Should I see a specialist, or is i...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Ting Ting / 39 years old / Female 1. About two weeks ago, I discovered an irregular hard lump in my groin area that does not hurt when pressed and is not visible on the skin surface. It has since decreased in size, but it feels like it has small bumps on top. Should I see a spec...

Understanding Breast Lumps: When to Worry and When to Relax

Dear Director: About seven or eight years ago, I discovered a tumor on my left upper arm, which was diagnosed as a malignant pilomatricoma after a biopsy. After thorough excision and follow-up, my doctor informed me that I was healthy and did not need further monitoring. However,...

Dr. Lin Shuilong reply Surgery
Dear user, due to your history of malignant skin tumors, it is advisable for you to visit a breast surgery clinic for a differential diagnosis by a specialist to ensure your health.