Movable Neck and Chest Lumps: When to Seek Specialist Care

A movable mass was found in the neck and chest?

Hello Doctor, I have had a lipoma on the back of my neck since my teenage years, which was surgically removed by a plastic surgeon last year.
This year, I discovered a movable round mass about 2 cm on the right side of my neck, which is painless and can be moved side to side.
It feels like it has a membrane and resembles the previous lipoma.
Additionally, I have been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian cysts, and I found another movable mass about 1 cm in size above my chest.
There is no family history of breast cancer, and my nipples show no abnormalities.
I am preparing to get imaging done, but I am currently living and working in Australia and cannot return to Taiwan for an examination in the short term.
I would like to ask you which specialty or type of doctor I should see for the neck mass in Australia.
Could you please provide the English name of the specialty? I am not very familiar with the medical specialties, and it is difficult to ask others about personal issues.
I am not keen on going to a general practitioner only to be referred to a specialist, as that seems quite daunting.
Thank you for your patience in reading this.

Rui, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/15

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

Happy New Year! If you have a neck lump in Australia, you should see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist or a Plastic Surgeon.
Thank you for your message.
Chen Sih-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/01/15

More Info

When it comes to movable lumps in the neck and chest area, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and seek appropriate medical advice. Based on your description, you have a history of a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor) and are now noticing new lumps that are movable and painless. Given your medical history and the characteristics of these lumps, it is advisable to consult a specialist for a thorough evaluation.

In Australia, the appropriate specialist for your situation would be an Otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist. They are trained to evaluate and treat conditions related to the head and neck, including lumps in the neck. If the lumps are suspected to be related to your previous lipoma or if there are concerns about other conditions, the ENT specialist will be able to conduct a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to assess the nature of the lumps.

Additionally, if there are concerns about the breast lump you mentioned, you may also consider consulting a Breast Surgeon or a General Surgeon. These specialists can evaluate breast lumps and determine if further investigation, such as a mammogram or biopsy, is necessary. Given that you have a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), it’s also important to keep track of any changes in your reproductive health, and a gynecologist may be helpful for ongoing management of that condition.

It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about seeking medical care, especially when it involves discussing personal health issues. However, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and address any new symptoms. In Australia, you can often find specialists through hospital websites or medical directories. Many specialists also have online booking systems, which can make the process less daunting.

In summary, for the movable lumps in your neck, seek an Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist), and for the breast lump, consider a Breast Surgeon or General Surgeon. Don't hesitate to reach out for help; specialists are trained to handle these situations with care and confidentiality. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and addressing these lumps promptly will help ensure that any necessary treatment can be initiated without delay.

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