Fibroadenomas: Should You Consider Surgery?

Q: Fibroadenomas: Should You Consider Surgery?

Dear Kiki： Fibroadenoma is the most common benign tumor in women aged 20 to 30. <br>If it enlarges, it usually grows to about 2-3 centimeters and then stops growing. <br>Surgical intervention is an option, but not always necessary. <br>However, if there is continuous growth or if

Fibroadenoma

Two months ago, I discovered a round, movable lump in my chest.
I consulted a surgeon who performed an ultrasound and diagnosed it as a fibroadenoma.
The doctor mentioned it is quite large, measuring 2.3 cm, and suggested considering removal.
I would like to know if I should proceed with the removal.
Will there be any side effects after the surgery, or will there be any indentation on the surface of my chest? How long will the recovery take? Is there a possibility of complications? Should I seek a second opinion from a specialist or a larger hospital, or is this just a minor procedure that I shouldn't worry about? I apologize for the many questions; I've been so anxious that I can't sleep at night!

Kiki, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/30

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Kiki: Fibroadenoma is the most common benign tumor in women aged 20 to 30.
If it enlarges, it usually grows to about 2-3 centimeters and then stops growing.
Surgical intervention is an option, but not always necessary.
However, if there is continuous growth or if symptoms (including psychological ones) occur, surgical treatment is recommended.

Reply Date: 2016/01/30

More Info

Fibroadenomas are among the most common benign breast tumors, particularly in younger women. They are typically round or oval in shape, firm to the touch, and can be mobile under the skin. The decision to surgically remove a fibroadenoma often depends on several factors, including its size, growth rate, symptoms, and the patient's personal preferences.

In your case, the fibroadenoma has been identified as being 2.3 cm in size. While many fibroadenomas remain stable in size or even shrink over time, larger ones, especially those over 2 cm, may warrant surgical removal. This is because larger fibroadenomas can sometimes cause discomfort or changes in breast shape, and there is a small risk of them being misdiagnosed, particularly if they exhibit atypical features on imaging studies.

Should You Consider Surgery?
1. Size and Symptoms: Given that your fibroadenoma is 2.3 cm, surgical removal may be advisable, especially if it is causing discomfort or anxiety. While many fibroadenomas are monitored without intervention, larger ones can be more concerning, and surgical excision can provide peace of mind.

2. Potential Risks and Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and scarring. However, fibroadenoma surgery is generally considered a minor procedure, and most patients recover well. The concern about the breast surface becoming indented or "dented" post-surgery is valid, but this is typically minimal if the procedure is performed by an experienced surgeon. The cosmetic outcome can often be quite favorable.

3. Recovery Time: Recovery from fibroadenoma surgery usually takes about a week, during which you may experience some soreness and swelling. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, but it’s advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week to allow proper healing.

4. Surgical Success: The success rate for fibroadenoma excision is high, and complications are rare. However, as with any surgery, there is always a small risk of complications. Discussing these with your surgeon can help alleviate concerns.

5. Consulting a Specialist: If you feel uncertain about the recommendation or want a second opinion, it is entirely reasonable to seek consultation from a breast specialist or a larger medical center. This can provide additional reassurance and help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice to undergo surgery for a fibroadenoma should be based on a combination of medical advice, personal comfort with the situation, and the potential impact on your quality of life. If the fibroadenoma is causing you significant anxiety or if you have concerns about its size, discussing surgical options with your healthcare provider is a prudent step. Remember, it’s your body, and you have the right to seek the treatment that feels right for you.

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