Finding a lump in the breast can be alarming for any individual. While not all breast lumps are cancerous, every breast lump needs proper medical evaluation to determine whether it is benign (non-cancerous) or suspicious (potentially cancerous). Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in effective treatment, better outcomes, and peace of mind.
At Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune, Dr. Dhananjay Patil, an experienced General Surgeon, provides expert evaluation, diagnosis, and surgical management of breast lumps for patients from Chinchwad, Pimpri, Wakad, Thergaon, Akurdi, Nigdi, and nearby Pune areas.
What Are Breast Lumps?
A breast lump is a localized swelling, mass, or thickened tissue in the breast that feels different from surrounding tissue. Breast lumps can occur in women of all ages and, in rare cases, even in men.
Breast lumps may be:
- Soft or hard
- Painful or painless
- Mobile or fixed
- Smooth or irregular
While many lumps are harmless, some may indicate serious underlying conditions, including breast cancer.
Common Causes of Breast Lumps
Breast lumps can develop due to various reasons, including:
1. Fibroadenoma (Benign Lump)
- Most common in young women
- Firm, smooth, and movable
- Usually painless
- Non-cancerous
2. Breast Cysts
- Fluid-filled sacs
- May become painful before periods
- Common in women aged 35–50
3. Fibrocystic Breast Changes
- Lumpiness due to hormonal changes
- Cyclic pain and swelling
- Benign condition
4. Breast Infections or Abscess
- Redness, pain, fever, pus discharge
- Requires medical or surgical treatment
5. Fat Necrosis
- Occurs after trauma or surgery
- Feels like a firm lump but is benign
6. Breast Cancer (Suspicious Lump)
- Hard, irregular, non-movable lump
- Usually painless
- May be associated with skin or nipple changes
Benign vs Suspicious Breast Lumps
Benign Breast Lumps
✔ Smooth and well-defined
✔ Mobile under the skin
✔ Often painful during menstrual cycles
✔ Slow or no growth
Examples include fibroadenoma, cysts, and fibrocystic changes.
Suspicious Breast Lumps
⚠ Hard and irregular edges
⚠ Fixed to surrounding tissue
⚠ Rapid increase in size
⚠ Skin dimpling or redness
⚠ Nipple inversion or discharge (especially blood-stained)
Any lump with these features requires urgent evaluation by a general surgeon.
Why Early Evaluation Is Critical
Delaying evaluation of a breast lump can lead to:
- Progression of undiagnosed cancer
- More extensive surgery later
- Increased emotional stress
- Reduced treatment success
Early diagnosis saves lives and often allows for simpler and less invasive treatment.
Dr. Dhananjay Patil, a trusted General Surgeon in Chinchwad, Pune, emphasizes early consultation for any new or changing breast lump.
How Breast Lumps Are Diagnosed
At Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, breast lump evaluation includes:
1. Clinical Breast Examination
- Detailed physical examination by a surgeon
- Assessment of lump size, texture, and mobility
2. Imaging Tests
- Ultrasound (commonly used in younger women)
- Mammography (especially for women above 40)
3. FNAC or Biopsy
- FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)
- Core needle biopsy if needed
- Confirms whether the lump is benign or malignant
These investigations help plan the right treatment approach.
When Is Surgery Needed for Breast Lumps?
Surgical removal may be recommended when:
- The lump is suspicious or cancerous
- The lump is increasing in size
- There is persistent pain or discomfort
- Cosmetic concerns arise
- FNAC/biopsy suggests abnormal cells
Dr. Dhananjay Patil performs safe and precise breast lump excision surgeries with minimal scarring whenever possible.
Surgical Treatment Options
1. Lump Excision (Lumpectomy)
- Removal of the lump only
- Day-care procedure in most cases
- Quick recovery
2. Abscess Drainage
- For infected lumps or pus collection
- Prevents spread of infection
3. Further Surgery (If Cancer Is Diagnosed)
- Planned in coordination with oncologists
- Early-stage cancers have excellent outcomes
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
After breast lump surgery:
- Mild pain and swelling subside in a few days
- Dressings and wound care instructions are provided
- Normal activities can usually resume within a week
- Follow-up visits ensure proper healing
Patients treated at Chetna Hospital, Pune, benefit from personalized post-operative care and guidance.
Who Should Get Breast Lumps Checked Immediately?
You should consult a general surgeon if you notice:
- A new lump in the breast or armpit
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling or thickening
- Nipple discharge or inversion
- Persistent breast pain
Patients from Chinchwad, Pimpri, Wakad, Thergaon, Nigdi, Akurdi, and nearby Pune areas can easily access expert care at Chetna Hospital.
Why Choose Dr. Dhananjay Patil, General Surgeon?
Dr. Dhananjay Patil is a highly experienced General Surgeon in Pune, known for:
- Accurate diagnosis of breast lumps
- Expertise in minor and major breast surgeries
- Patient-friendly and ethical approach
- Use of modern surgical techniques
- High success rates and faster recovery
His practice at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad ensures safe, confidential, and compassionate care.
Preventive Tips for Breast Health
- Perform monthly self-breast examination
- Schedule regular clinical check-ups
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Seek immediate medical advice for any changes
Awareness and early action are the keys to breast health.
Conclusion
Breast lumps are common, and most are benign, but every lump deserves medical attention. Differentiating between benign and suspicious lumps through timely evaluation can prevent complications and save lives.
If you or a loved one notice a breast lump, do not panic—but do not delay. Consult Dr. Dhananjay Patil, General Surgeon at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune, for expert evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
📍 Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune
📞 8390861787 | 9158681123
