Fibroadenomas: Surgical Options and Scar Concerns

Breast fibroadenoma

Hello Dr.
Wu,
Since 2004, I have had my first fibroadenoma in my right breast, and currently, I have four in the right breast and one in the left breast.
I have been undergoing regular follow-up examinations every year.
The fibroadenoma in my left breast was discovered last year, measuring 0.9 x 0.8 x 0.6 cm, but during this year's check-up, it suddenly grew to 2 cm.
The physician I consulted recommended surgical removal of this mass.
Would you also recommend surgery for the suddenly enlarged fibroadenoma? Additionally, will there be scarring after the surgery? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Miss Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/16

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Chen,
The sudden growth of a fibroepithelial tumor should be considered for surgical excision to determine its histological type.
After all, this condition indicates that "it will grow" and it has already reached 2 cm, so surgery is worth considering! As for whether the surgery will leave a scar, this is a common concern for many people.
In fact, surgery will inevitably leave a scar, but we can choose to operate in less noticeable areas, and with some post-operative care, it should be acceptable!
Wishing you safety and health,
Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang
Attending Surgeon
Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2010/06/16

More Info

Fibroadenomas are benign tumors commonly found in breast tissue, particularly among younger women. They are characterized by their well-defined borders and can vary in size. While many fibroadenomas remain stable or even shrink over time, some can grow, as you've experienced with your left breast fibroadenoma, which increased from 0.9 x 0.8 x 0.6 cm to 2 cm in size.

The recommendation to surgically remove a fibroadenoma often depends on several factors, including its size, growth rate, and any associated symptoms. In your case, the sudden increase in size of the fibroadenoma in your left breast may warrant surgical intervention. This is particularly true if the growth is rapid, as it can sometimes be challenging to differentiate between a benign fibroadenoma and a more concerning lesion based solely on imaging studies. Surgical removal allows for definitive diagnosis through pathological examination of the tissue.

Regarding your concerns about scarring, surgical techniques have advanced significantly, and many surgeons employ methods that minimize scarring. The type of anesthesia used (local versus general) and the surgical approach can also influence the extent of scarring. Most fibroadenoma excisions are performed under local anesthesia, allowing for a quicker recovery and less invasive procedure. The incision is typically small, and surgeons often place it in a location that is less visible, such as along the natural contours of the breast.
Post-operative care is crucial for optimal healing and minimizing scarring. Following your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care, avoiding strenuous activities, and keeping the area clean will help in the healing process. Additionally, some patients find that using silicone gel sheets or other scar treatment products can aid in reducing the appearance of scars over time.

In summary, given the recent growth of your fibroadenoma, surgical removal is a reasonable option to consider. It will provide peace of mind through definitive diagnosis and management. While there may be some scarring, modern surgical techniques aim to minimize this, and proper post-operative care can further enhance healing. It is essential to have an open discussion with your surgeon about your concerns, the surgical procedure, and what to expect regarding recovery and scarring. This will help you make an informed decision about your treatment options.

Similar Q&A

Traditional Surgery for Fibroadenoma: Considerations for Scar Management

Hello! After discussing with my attending physician yesterday, we decided to remove both fibroadenomas in my left breast (one measuring 1 cm at the 3 o'clock position and the other measuring 1.2 cm at the 4 o'clock position) using traditional surgical methods. Since I h...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
1. Because the edge of the areola is at the junction between the areola and normal skin, it is generally less noticeable regardless of the presence of keloids! 2. Absolutely not! This is a completely different procedure. If the postoperative wound experiences unnecessary tension...

Understanding Fibroadenoma Surgery: Anesthesia, Recovery, and Scarring

I recently went to the hospital and was diagnosed with a fibroadenoma. The doctor recommended surgery to remove the tumor because my fibroadenoma is located deep and cannot be detected through palpation; it was identified through ultrasound. I would like to know if this procedure...

Dr. Lin Kecheng reply Surgery
Hello, Xiao Zhu Zhu: Fibroadenomas, unless they are larger than 1.5 centimeters, are usually not detectable through physical examination. Ultrasound is a better diagnostic tool. Whether to use local anesthesia or general anesthesia will typically be explained in detail by the att...

Evaluating Surgical Options for Growing Fibroadenoma: Traditional vs. Minimally Invasive

If a fibroadenoma was first examined two years ago and measured 1 cm, but has now grown to 3 cm, and ultrasound examinations have been performed twice indicating a possible need for surgery, how should we evaluate whether to proceed with traditional surgery or minimally invasive ...

Dr. Wu Yuting reply Surgery
The difference in wound size between traditional surgery and minimally invasive surgery for a fibroadenoma is minimal, with a less than 1 cm difference for a 3 cm tumor. If "economically feasible" and "concerned about wound size," one may opt for minimally inv...

Understanding Fibroadenoma: Minimally Invasive Surgery Options Explained

Hello, doctor. I have had fibromas since I was eighteen, and I started irregular follow-ups in my thirties, about once a year or every six months. Initially, there was only a tumor on the right side, but later one was found on the left side as well, both accompanied by a stabbing...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Breast follow-up examinations have revealed abnormal shadows (likely from an ultrasound examination), and a biopsy is recommended for pathological testing. There are different methods for performing a biopsy; the main difference between traditional and minimally invasive techniqu...