What Are Breast Masses?
Most lumps in the breasts are not cancerous — breast tissue changes over time, and masses can be reflective of that development. Many women notice breast changes during their menses or pregnancy. If the mass persists, it is important to have it evaluated by a doctor. Often, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or a mammogram may be ordered. Abnormal causes of breast masses can include fibrocystic breast disease, infection, or cancer.
How Can We Help?
The required treatment for breast masses will depend on the exact problem. Some patients are referred to us without a diagnosis and we facilitate the work up of the breast mass. Work up can include ultrasound, mammogram, MRI, a biopsy performed in our office, biopsy performed by a radiologist or a biopsy in the operating room. Other patients already have a diagnosis when they are referred to us. The treatment of a known breast mass will depend on the problem. In the case of a growing mass or cancer, removal will be recommended. Please see the section on breast cancer for more details. If there is a breast infection sometimes antibiotics will be adequate and other times drainage the abscess cavity is necessary .
Who to Contact
Dr. Charlie Jones and Dr. Susan Hagen are general, vascular and thoracic surgeons with over 30 years of experience. To make an appointment, please call 303-443-2123.