Treatment:

If a biopsy shows that the lump is a fibroadenoma, the lump may be left in place or removed.

The decision to remove the lump is made by the patient and the surgeon. Reasons to have it removed include:

• Abnormal biopsy results
• Shape of the breast has changed
• Worry or concern about cancer

If the lump is left in place, it may be watched over time with:

• Mammogram
• Physical examination
• Ultrasound

Alternative treatments include removing the lump with a needle and destroying the lump without removing it (such as by freezing, in a process called cryoablation).

Expectations (prognosis):

Women with fibroadenoma have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer later in life. Lumps that are not removed should be checked regularly by physical exams and imaging tests, following the doctor's recommendations.

Complications:

If the lump is left in place and carefully watched, it may need to be removed at a later time if it changes, grows, or doesn't go away.

In very rare cases, the lump may be cancerous and you may need further treatment.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have a lump that is thought to be a fibroadenoma and it grows or changes in any way.