High Risk Breast Conditions

breast x-ray examination

Some benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions are associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future. These conditions are diagnosed on a biopsy and often require surgery and follow-up monitoring over time (surveillance). Which breast conditions increase breast cancer risk? High risk breast lesions include: Atypical Hyperplasia In atypical hyperplasia, breast cells become […]

Breast lumps

breast x-ray examination

Any new breast lump should be discussed with a doctor. Although breast lumps are common and usually benign (non-cancerous), they can be a warning sign of breast cancer. As such, timely investigation and treatment of breast lumps is important. What causes breast lumps? There are many conditions that can cause breast lumps including: Breast cysts Fibroadenoma […]

Nipple Changes

breast x-ray examination

Any new nipple symptoms should be discussed with a doctor. Although nipple changes are often a benign breast condition, they can be a warning sign of a developing breast cancer. As such, timely investigation of any breast changes is important. Common nipple conditions include: Nipple skin changes Inverted nipples or retracted nipples Nipple discharge How are […]

Fibroadenomas & Phyllodes tumours

breast x-ray examination

Fibroadenomas A fibroadenoma is a benign lump that evolves from the fibrous tissues in the breast (stroma). They are very common, with over 10% of women having at least one fibroadenoma in their lifetime. Many women will have multiple fibroadenomas. Most fibroadenomas are diagnosed in women between 15 and 40 years of age. They are […]

Breast pain

breast x-ray examination

Breast pain (or mastalgia) will affect three quarters (75%) of women during their lives. It may be accompanied by fullness, lumpiness and a heavy or dragging sensation. Mastalgia is not a symptom typical for breast cancer, but any new breast pain should be discussed with your doctor. Cyclical mastalgia Most breast pain varies throughout the […]

Nipple discharge

breast x-ray examination

Discharge of fluid from the nipple is very common. Fortunately, most nipple discharge is benign, meaning that it is rarely due to a cancer. Nonetheless, all new nipple discharge should be investigated. The lactiferous ducts that come from the milk-producing breast lobules concentrate into the nipple, and anywhere from five to fifteen will open onto […]

Gynaecomastia Surgery Information

breast x-ray examination

Gynaecomastia refers to enlargement of breast tissue in men. Men have a very small amount of breast tissue compared to women. Gynaecomastia can be on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral) of the chest wall. Overweight males tend to carry more fat on the chest wall, but this is not true gynaecomastia. What causes […]

Breast Reduction Surgery

breast x-ray examination

Breast reduction surgery aims to remove excess breast tissue, fat and skin to reduce the size can change the shape of the breasts. Traditionally, it was undertaken to help with symptoms associated with large breasts (macromastia) including: Back, neck and shoulder pain Breasts that may feel too heavy Impact on the ability to be as […]