Painful Accessory Breast Lumps: When to Seek Removal

Accessory breast small lump?

Hello Doctor: I have felt a small lump in the area of my right axillary tail.
It hurts when I touch it, and I also experience sharp pain in my right armpit.
I previously had an ultrasound examination, and the doctor said it was nothing to worry about since it measures only 0.7-0.8 cm.
Is it really nothing to be concerned about? If I truly feel uncomfortable with the lump, can I request the doctor to remove it?

PUKA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/02/27

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery

Hello PUKA, the so-called accessory breast is located in the axillary region and typically only causes pain before or during menstruation due to female hormones.
You may want to consult a physician to confirm the diagnosis and check for other possible causes.
Usually, accessory breasts do not require removal unless there is inflammation caused by nearby sweat glands or for cosmetic reasons.
It is advisable to consult a physician for a definitive diagnosis before making any surgical decisions.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Lin Ke-cheng.

Reply Date: 2009/02/27

More Info

When it comes to painful accessory breast lumps, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and when it might be appropriate to seek removal. Based on your description, it seems you have a small lump in the area of your accessory breast, which is causing discomfort and pain, particularly in the right armpit.
Accessory breast tissue, also known as supernumerary breast tissue, can occur in some individuals and may develop along the milk lines, which extend from the armpits to the groin. This tissue can sometimes become tender or painful, especially during hormonal fluctuations such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle. The pain you are experiencing could be related to hormonal changes, inflammation, or even muscle strain in the surrounding area.

In your case, the ultrasound examination indicated that the lump is relatively small (0.7-0.8 cm) and was deemed not concerning by your physician. However, it's important to note that while many small lumps can be benign, any persistent pain or discomfort should not be ignored. If the lump is causing you significant discomfort or anxiety, it is entirely reasonable to discuss the option of removal with your healthcare provider.

Here are some considerations regarding the management of painful accessory breast lumps:
1. Monitoring: If the lump is small and not causing significant issues, your doctor may recommend a watchful waiting approach. Regular self-examinations and follow-up ultrasounds can help ensure that there are no changes in the lump's characteristics.

2. Pain Management: For immediate relief from discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses, may also provide some relief.

3. Surgical Removal: If the lump continues to cause pain or if you have concerns about its nature, you can certainly request a surgical consultation. The decision to remove the lump will depend on various factors, including its size, location, and whether it is causing significant discomfort. Your surgeon will evaluate the risks and benefits of the procedure and discuss them with you.

4. Further Evaluation: If there are any changes in the lump, such as an increase in size, changes in shape, or new symptoms, it is crucial to seek further evaluation. This may include additional imaging studies or a biopsy to rule out any serious conditions.

5. Hormonal Influence: As mentioned earlier, hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact breast tissue. If your symptoms are cyclical and correlate with your menstrual cycle, this may indicate that hormonal changes are contributing to your discomfort. Discussing this with your healthcare provider may lead to further insights or treatment options.

In conclusion, while your ultrasound results suggest that the lump is not a cause for concern, your comfort and peace of mind are paramount. If the lump is causing you pain or anxiety, do not hesitate to discuss surgical removal with your physician. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your symptoms effectively and ensuring your overall breast health.

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