Fibroadenoma
Non-cancerous tissue growth
This harmless lump in the breast is common among younger women – our experts explain how it is diagnosed and treated.
About fibroadenoma
Need to know
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Symptoms of fibroadenoma icon plus
The lumps are usually painless (although some people experience tenderness), feel smooth under the skin and move around easily.
The different types of fibroadenoma are:
- Simple fibroadenoma – the most common form, measuring 1-3cm in size. These do not increase your chances of developing breast cancer.
- Complex fibroadenoma – a less common form that tends to occur in older women and may grow over time. These may slightly increase your chances of developing breast cancer.
- Giant/juvenile fibroadenoma – larger lumps that grow larger than 5cm in size.
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Diagnosis icon plus
While a fibroadenoma is harmless, it is always important to get any lump in the breasts checked out by a specialist.
In order to diagnose fibroadenoma, your consultant may carry out one or more of the following tests:
- A breast examination.
- Breast X-ray (mammogram) – using a mammogram machine, your breast is gently pressed flat under a plastic plate to ensure a clear image is taken.
- Ultrasound – a scan that uses sound waves to build up a picture of the inside of the breast with a small hand-held sensor which is pressed against the skin.
- Biopsy or fine needle aspiration – inserting a needle into the breast to remove tissue for testing.
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Many fibroadenomas do not require surgery, but sometimes an excision biopsy is needed. This procedure removes large, complex or juvenile fibroadenomas.
The surgery can involve:
- Local or general anaesthetic – your consultant will discuss the options so you are fully prepared.
- Dissolvable stitches may be used under the skin - these won’t need to be removed afterwards. If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they will be taken out a few days after surgery.
- Another type of treatment available to remove the lump is vacuum-assisted excision biopsy. With this option, the lump will be removed without surgery under local anaesthetic.
Our breast care consultants
Our breast care locations
From complex breast and reconstructive surgery to screening and minor breast procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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London Breast Institute
42–52 Nottingham Place
London
W1U 5NY
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The Breast Unit at The Wellington Hospital
Platinum Medical Centre
15-17 Lodge Road, St John's Wood
London NW8 7JA
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The Christie Private Care
Wilmslow Road
Manchester M20 4BX
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344