Breast Lump: When to Be Seen
A breast lump is any area of breast tissue that feels different from the surrounding tissue. Most breast lumps are benign — often cysts or fibroadenomas — but because examination alone cannot tell them apart from cancer, any new or persistent lump should be assessed by a specialist.
What is a breast lump?
A breast lump is a swelling or area of thickening that feels different from the rest of the breast. Lumps vary in how they feel — soft or hard, moveable or fixed, tender or painless. Breast tissue is naturally lumpy in places, which is why a change from your normal is what matters most.
Common causes
- Cysts — fluid-filled sacs, often tender and changing with the cycle
- Fibroadenomas — smooth, firm, moveable benign lumps, common in younger women
- Normal nodularity — hormonal changes through the cycle
- Fat necrosis or lipomas — benign fatty changes
- Breast cancer — less common, but the reason every lump is checked
How a breast lump is diagnosed
Assessment uses triple assessment: a specialist examination, imaging (ultrasound and/or mammogram depending on your age), and, if needed, a needle biopsy. In our one-stop clinic, these are combined in a single visit, with most patients leaving with a working diagnosis the same day.
When you should see a specialist
See a specialist for any new lump, a lump that persists beyond one menstrual cycle, or a lump with skin or nipple changes. Early assessment provides reassurance for the majority and prompt treatment for the few who need it.
When to seek medical advice
See a doctor promptly — or call 999 if you feel acutely unwell — if you notice any of the following:
- A new lump that does not go away after your next period
- A hard, fixed or irregular lump
- Skin dimpling, puckering or an 'orange-peel' texture
- Nipple changes — inversion, a rash or blood-stained discharge
- A lump in the armpit
- Any breast lump in a man
Most breast changes are not cancer. But any new or persistent change should be assessed. Our one-stop breast clinic offers same-day specialist assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Are most breast lumps cancer?
No. The majority of breast lumps are benign — commonly cysts or fibroadenomas. However, any new lump should be assessed, because examination alone cannot reliably tell benign from cancerous.
What does a cancerous lump feel like?
A cancerous lump is often hard, irregular and fixed, and may be painless. But benign lumps can feel similar, so feel is not a reliable guide. Imaging and, if needed, a biopsy give the answer.
How quickly should I be seen?
A new breast lump should be assessed promptly. Our one-stop clinic offers same-day triple assessment so you do not have to wait weeks for answers.
Can men get breast lumps?
Yes. Men can develop breast lumps, including gynaecomastia and, rarely, breast cancer. They should be assessed in the same way.
Related information
Sources
Worried about a breast symptom?
Book a same-day one-stop appointment with Mr Debashis Ghosh, or call our team in confidence.