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Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenomas are common benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps that occur most frequently in younger women, although they can develop at any age. They are made up of both glandular and fibrous breast tissue and are one of the most common causes of a palpable breast lump.

While fibroadenomas are not breast cancer, any new breast lump should still be properly assessed to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other breast conditions.

A/Prof Farid Meybodi provides comprehensive breast lump assessment using modern imaging, clinical evaluation, and evidence-based breast care to ensure accurate diagnosis and personalised management.

What Is a Fibroadenoma?

A fibroadenoma is a solid benign breast lump that typically:

  • Feels smooth, firm, and mobile
  • Has well-defined borders
  • Moves easily beneath the skin
  • Is usually painless
  • May occur as a single lump or multiple lumps

Fibroadenomas can vary in size and may remain stable, enlarge slowly, or occasionally shrink over time.

They are commonly influenced by hormonal changes and are often seen in women during their reproductive years.

Common Symptoms

Many fibroadenomas are discovered incidentally during breast imaging or self-examination. Patients may notice:

  • A smooth breast lump
  • A firm or rubbery lump within the breast
  • A mobile lump that moves under the skin
  • Mild breast discomfort or tenderness in some cases

Most fibroadenomas are painless and benign in appearance.

Breast Assessment & Triple Assessment

Any new breast lump should be assessed promptly using a modern triple assessment approach, which may include:

  • Clinical breast examination
  • Breast imaging
  • Biopsy where indicated

During consultation, Associate Professor Farid Meybodi will assess:

  • The size and characteristics of the lump
  • Your medical and family history
  • Imaging findings
  • Any changes in the lump over time

Breast Imaging

Breast imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and determine whether further investigation is required.

Investigations may include:

  • Breast ultrasound
  • Mammography where appropriate
  • Breast MRI in selected cases

Ultrasound is particularly useful in younger women and often demonstrates the typical appearance of a fibroadenoma.

Biopsy & Diagnosis

In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis, particularly if:

  • The lump is enlarging
  • Imaging findings are uncertain
  • The lesion has atypical features
  • There is patient concern or family history considerations

Core needle biopsy is commonly used to obtain a tissue sample for pathological assessment.

Do Fibroadenomas Need Surgery?

Many fibroadenomas do not require surgical removal and can be safely monitored with clinical review and imaging follow-up.

Surgical removal may be considered if:

  • The fibroadenoma is large
  • The lump is increasing in size
  • It is causing discomfort or anxiety
  • Imaging or biopsy findings are atypical
  • There is uncertainty regarding the diagnosis

Management recommendations are highly individualised based on symptoms, imaging, pathology, and patient preference.

Surgical Removal of Fibroadenoma

When surgery is recommended, the goal is to remove the fibroadenoma while preserving natural breast contour and appearance wherever possible.

Surgical planning considers:

  • Lump size and location
  • Breast size and shape
  • Cosmetic outcomes
  • Scar placement
  • Future breast imaging considerations

The procedure is typically performed as day surgery.

Ongoing Breast Health

Fibroadenomas are benign breast lesions and most do not increase the risk of breast cancer. However, ongoing breast awareness and appropriate breast screening remain important.

Patients should seek reassessment if they notice:

  • A new breast lump
  • Rapid enlargement
  • Skin or nipple changes
  • Persistent breast pain
  • Changes in an existing fibroadenoma

Personalised Breast Care

A/Prof Farid Meybodi provides thoughtful, patient-centred care for benign breast conditions with a focus on reassurance, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based management.

We understand that discovering a breast lump can feel stressful, and our goal is to provide timely assessment, clear communication, and compassionate support throughout every stage of investigation and treatment.

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