About Fibroadenoma
What is a Fibroadenoma?
A fibroadenoma is a benign (non-cancerous) breast lump made up of glandular and connective breast tissue.
They are one of the most common causes of breast lumps in women under 40 and frequently develop during the reproductive years when hormone levels are changing.
Fibroadenomas typically:
- Feel smooth
- Have well-defined edges
- Move easily beneath the skin
- Are firm or rubbery
- Grow slowly
- Usually measure between 1–3 cm
Many women discover a fibroadenoma while showering or performing breast self-examination.
Although fibroadenomas are benign, every new breast lump should be assessed by an experienced breast surgeon.
Symptoms of a Fibroadenoma
Many fibroadenomas cause no symptoms.
Others may cause:
- A painless breast lump
- A lump that moves under the skin
- Mild breast discomfort
- Breast tenderness before periods
- Anxiety about breast cancer
- Enlargement over time
Large fibroadenomas may become uncomfortable or noticeable beneath clothing.
What Causes Fibroadenomas?
The exact cause is unknown.
They are believed to be influenced by female hormones, particularly oestrogen.
Fibroadenomas are more common:
- Between ages 15–35
- During pregnancy
- During hormonal changes
- In women taking hormone therapy
Stress does not cause fibroadenomas.
Lifestyle factors have not been proven to prevent them.
Can a Fibroadenoma Turn Into Cancer?
This is one of the most common concerns patients have.
The reassuring answer is most fibroadenomas do not become breast cancer.
A simple fibroadenoma has an extremely low risk of developing into cancer.
However:
- Some breast cancers can initially resemble fibroadenomas on imaging.
- Occasionally a breast biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
- Rare complex fibroadenomas may carry a slightly higher future risk of breast cancer.
For this reason, any new breast lump should be assessed using imaging and, when appropriate, biopsy.
Fibroadenoma vs Breast Cancer
| Fibroadenoma | Breast Cancer |
|---|
| Usually smooth | Often irregular |
| Moves easily | May feel fixed |
| Usually painless | May or may not be painful |
| Benign | Cancerous |
| Slow growing | Can enlarge unpredictably |
It is not possible to diagnose a breast lump based on touch alone.
Professional assessment is essential.
How is a Fibroadenoma Diagnosed?
Dr Rizvi follows the internationally recognised Triple Assessment approach.
Clinical examination
A detailed breast examination.
Breast imaging
Depending on your age this may include:
- Ultrasound
- Mammogram
- MRI (selected patients)
Core biopsy
A small tissue sample confirms the diagnosis.
This provides the highest level of confidence before deciding whether surgery is needed.
Treatment
When Should a Fibroadenoma Be Removed?
Not every fibroadenoma requires surgery.
Observation may be appropriate when:
- The diagnosis is certain
- The lump is small
- It is not growing
- It is not causing symptoms
Removal may be recommended if:
- The lump is increasing in size
- It causes discomfort
- The diagnosis is uncertain
- Imaging and biopsy do not completely agree
- It is larger than approximately 3 cm
- It causes cosmetic concerns
- The patient prefers removal
Treatment decisions are individualised after discussing the benefits and risks.
Fibroadenoma Removal Surgery
What happens during surgery?
Fibroadenoma removal is generally performed as a day procedure under general anaesthetic.
Dr Rizvi carefully removes the fibroadenoma while preserving as much normal breast tissue as possible.
Whenever possible:
- Incisions are placed discreetly
- Scarring is minimised
- Breast shape is preserved
The removed tissue is routinely examined by a specialist pathologist.
Recovery
Most patients:
- Return home the same day
- Experience mild discomfort
- Resume office work within several days
- Return to exercise after approximately two weeks
Recovery varies depending on the size and location of the fibroadenoma.
Risks & Cost
Risks
All surgery carries some risks.
Possible risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bruising
- Seroma
- Temporary numbness
- Scar formation
- Change in breast shape
- Recurrence (new fibroadenoma elsewhere)
Dr Rizvi discusses these risks before surgery.
Ready to Have Your Breast Lump Assessed?
Finding a breast lump can be stressful.
An accurate diagnosis provides reassurance and ensures the right treatment if needed.
Book a consultation with Dr Ali Rizvi for expert assessment of fibroadenomas and other breast conditions.
How Much Does Fibroadenoma Removal Cost in Sydney?
The cost varies depending on:
- Hospital fees
- Health insurance
- Anaesthetist fees
- Medicare rebates
- Complexity of surgery
A personalised written quote is provided after consultation.
Why Choose Dr Ali Rizvi?
- FRACS-qualified Breast, Endocrine & General Surgeon
- Expertise in benign and cancerous breast conditions
- Comprehensive breast assessment using Triple Assessment
- Patient-centred care with evidence-based recommendations
- Modern surgical techniques designed to preserve breast appearance
- Caring, personalised consultations
- Sydney consulting locations with access to accredited hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
Do fibroadenomas go away?
Some fibroadenomas remain stable for many years, while others slowly shrink over time. Many do not require treatment unless they grow or cause symptoms.
Can fibroadenomas become cancer?
Simple fibroadenomas rarely become cancer. However, every new breast lump should be properly assessed.
Does a fibroadenoma cause pain?
Most are painless, although some women experience tenderness, particularly before menstruation.
Can I ask for my fibroadenoma to be removed?
Yes. Surgery may be appropriate if the lump causes anxiety, discomfort, cosmetic concerns or continues to enlarge.
Can fibroadenoma disappear without surgery?
Some may shrink naturally, particularly after menopause.
What happens if I don't remove it?
Many fibroadenomas can be safely monitored with regular imaging and clinical review if they remain stable.
Is fibroadenoma caused by stress?
No evidence shows that stress causes fibroadenomas.
