Removal of Breast Lump

About Removal of Breast Lump

Scarless or minimal-scar removal of a breast lump is a surgical procedure designed to take out benign breast lumps such as fibroadenomas, cysts, and other non-cancerous tumours. The operation addresses the discomfort and anxiety of having a lump in the breast and provides a definitive diagnosis by removing the lump entirely for histology. While the procedure is primarily used for benign lesions, in selected early cancer cases it can be combined with appropriate oncological surgery and reconstruction.

During consultation for breast lump removal, we review your imaging (ultrasound and mammogram where indicated), discuss any biopsy results, examine the lump, and explain the surgical plan. We also discuss the importance of complete removal, histology, and follow-up. For very small benign lumps, ultrasound-guided minimally invasive techniques may be considered; for larger or atypical lumps, formal excision through a discreet incision is recommended.

Suitable candidates are women with confirmed benign or low-risk lumps, stable general health, no untreated breast infection, and realistic expectations regarding scar position. Pre-operative preparation includes blood tests, an anaesthetic check-up where general anaesthesia is planned, and stopping any medications as advised. We also confirm whether the lump is best approached through a periareolar incision, an inframammary incision, or an axillary route to keep scars discreet.

The procedure for removing a breast lump is generally performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or under general anaesthesia, depending on size and patient preference. Operating time is short, often thirty to sixty minutes for a single lump. The lump is removed entirely, sent for histology, and the breast tissue is reshaped to avoid contour deformity. The wound is closed in layers using absorbable sutures, often with skin adhesive, leaving a fine, well-concealed scar.

Recovery from a simple lumpectomy is short. Most patients are discharged the same day. Mild discomfort responds to oral analgesia, and a supportive bra is worn for one to two weeks. Desk work resumes in three to five days, and gym training in two to three weeks. The histology report is reviewed at follow-up, and any further care is planned then. Risks are uncommon and include bruising, infection, fluid collection, and changes in breast contour or sensation, all of which we discuss before surgery.

What to expect

• Review of imaging, biopsy, and clinical examination
• Plan for periareolar, inframammary, or axillary incision
• Local with sedation, or general anaesthesia
• Complete excision of the lump for histology
• Layered closure with absorbable sutures
• Day-care procedure in most cases
• Photographs and an itemised written estimate

Recovery

• Discharged same day in most cases
• Desk work in 3 to 5 days
• Supportive bra worn for 1 to 2 weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting and gym for 2 to 3 weeks
• Mild bruising and swelling settle over 1 to 2 weeks
• Histology review at follow-up; scar fades over 6 to 12 months