Do All Breast Lumps Need Surgery? A Breast Surgeon’s Guide to Benign vs. Concerning Lumps

When is a Swollen Armpit Linked to Breast Health, and When to See a Doctor

Noticing swelling or a lump under your armpit can feel alarming. Sometimes, it’s a simple reaction to infection or irritation, but in other cases, it may be linked to your breast health. Because the lymph nodes under the armpit are closely connected to the breast, changes there can sometimes signal that something deeper is happening.

Here’s how to tell when a swollen armpit might be related to your breast, what the common causes are, and when it’s time to see a doctor.

---

Key Pointers

• A swollen armpit can be caused by infection, inflammation, or enlarged lymph nodes.
• In some cases, it may be linked to breast conditions, including breast infections or breast cancer.
• Lymph nodes under the arm play a major role in the body’s immune system and breast drainage.
• Persistent swelling or hard lumps that don’t go away should be checked by a breast specialist.
• Ultrasound or mammogram can help identify what’s behind the swelling.

---

Why Does the Armpit Swell?

The armpit area contains several lymph nodes, small glands that help your body fight infections. These nodes can become enlarged when they detect something unusual, like bacteria, inflammation, or even an immune response.

Common causes of a swollen armpit include:

• Infections, such as a skin wound or shaving irritation
• Viral or bacterial illnesses, like a cold or flu
• Allergic reactions to deodorants or creams
• Inflamed hair follicles or ingrown hairs

These causes are usually short-term and improve as your body recovers.

When Is Swelling Related to Breast Health?

The lymph nodes in your armpit (axillary nodes) are connected to your breast tissue. When something changes in the breast, such as inflammation, infection, or cancer, these lymph nodes can react by swelling.

A swollen armpit may be related to breast health if:

• You notice a lump in the breast or skin changes, like dimpling or redness.
• The swelling is only on one side and lasts more than two weeks.
• There’s nipple discharge or tenderness along with armpit pain.
  

This type of swelling might indicate:

• Mastitis or a breast infection, especially in breastfeeding women.
• Fibrocystic breast changes, which can cause tenderness in both the breast and armpit.
• Breast cancer, particularly if lymph nodes become firm, fixed, or enlarged without infection.

What Are the Red Flags to Watch For?

Not all swelling is serious, but some signs mean it’s time to seek medical attention.
You should see a doctor if you notice:

• A lump that feels hard or immovable under the armpit
• Swelling that persists beyond two weeks
• Skin changes around the armpit or breast (dimpling, thickening, redness)
• Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue
• Pain or tenderness that doesn’t go away

If these symptoms are present, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound, mammogram, or even a biopsy to determine the cause.

---

When to See a Breast Specialist

If your armpit swelling is new, persistent, or comes with breast changes, it’s best to get it checked by a breast specialist. They can perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and order imaging tests to determine whether the lymph nodes are reactive (due to infection) or something more serious.

Early evaluation offers reassurance, and, if needed, ensures timely treatment.

---

FAQs About Armpit Swelling and Breast Health

1. Can a swollen armpit be the first sign of breast cancer? Yes, in some cases, swollen lymph nodes under the arm may be an early sign of breast cancer, even before a lump in the breast is felt. However, infection is a more common cause.

2. How long should I wait before seeing a doctor? If swelling lasts more than two weeks, or if it grows or becomes painful, it’s time for a medical review.

3. Will imaging tests like an ultrasound or mammogram help? Yes. These scans can show whether the swelling is due to infection, inflammation, or abnormal tissue growth.

4. Can deodorants or shaving cause swollen lymph nodes? Yes. Skin irritation, small cuts, or reactions to deodorants can cause temporary swelling in the armpit.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’ve noticed a swollen armpit or lump and are unsure what it means, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can help. We offer careful assessment, imaging tests, and guidance to determine the cause and recommend the right next steps.

Book a consultation today for clarity and peace of mind. Early evaluation can make all the difference for your comfort and breast health.

Is Breast Pain a Sign of Cancer?

It’s common to worry when you feel breast pain, after all, many women associate any breast discomfort with breast cancer. But here’s some reassurance: most breast pain isn’t linked to cancer. In fact, it’s usually caused by hormonal changes, cysts, or benign breast conditions.
Understanding when pain is normal and when it’s worth checking out can help you feel more confident about your breast health.

---

Key Pointers

• Breast pain is rarely the first sign of cancer.
• Common causes include hormonal changes, cysts, or inflammation (mastitis).
• Cyclical pain is linked to the menstrual cycle, while non-cyclical pain may come from localised issues.
• Persistent, one-sided, or unexplained pain should still be checked by a breast doctor.
• Imaging tests like ultrasound or mammogram can help rule out serious causes.

---

What Does Breast Pain Feel Like?

Breast pain (known medically as mastalgia) can feel different for everyone. Some describe it as a dull ache, while others experience sharp, burning, or pulling sensations. The discomfort might affect one or both breasts and can sometimes spread to the armpit or upper chest.

Doctors generally divide breast pain into two main types:

• Cyclical pain: Related to hormonal fluctuations before your period. It usually affects both breasts and improves after menstruation.
  
• Non-cyclical pain: Not connected to your cycle. It may be linked to cysts, injuries, or inflammation of the breast tissue.
  

Can Breast Pain Be a Sign of Cancer?

In most cases, no.
Breast pain on its own is rarely caused by cancer. However, in a small number of cases, it can be associated with other symptoms such as:

• A hard, irregular lump in the breast
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Skin dimpling or redness
• Nipple discharge or inversion

If you notice any of these changes, it’s important to see a doctor. A mammogram or ultrasound can help determine the cause of your pain and rule out anything serious.

What Are the Common Non-Cancer Causes of Breast Pain?

Most breast pain has nothing to do with cancer. Here are some common reasons your breasts might hurt:

• Hormonal fluctuations – especially before your period or during menopause
• Fibrocystic breast changes – where the tissue becomes lumpy or tender
• Cysts – fluid-filled sacs that can cause localised pain
• Infections (mastitis) – often seen in breastfeeding women, but can occur in others too
• Muscle strain – sometimes chest wall pain feels like it’s coming from the breast

Understanding these causes can help you stay calm and know when the pain might resolve on its own.

When Should You See a Doctor?

While occasional tenderness is common, you should book an appointment if:

• Pain is persistent or localised to one area
• You feel a new lump that doesn’t go away
• There are skin changes like dimpling, redness, or thickening
• Pain comes with nipple discharge or swelling
• The discomfort interferes with daily life

Your doctor may recommend a breast ultrasound (if you’re younger) or a mammogram (if you’re over 40) to investigate further.

---

FAQs About Breast Pain and Cancer

1. Does breast cancer always cause pain?
No. Many breast cancers are painless in the early stages. Painful lumps are often benign, but should still be checked.

2. Should I get a mammogram if I only have pain and no lump?
If the pain is persistent or unusual, yes. A mammogram or ultrasound can rule out underlying causes.

3. Can stress or caffeine make breast pain worse?
Yes. High caffeine intake and stress can contribute to breast tenderness for some women. Reducing both may help.

4. Is breast pain normal during menopause?
Yes. Hormonal changes during perimenopause or menopause can cause temporary discomfort or sensitivity.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re worried about breast pain or other breast symptoms, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help.
We provide thorough evaluation, imaging tests, and tailored care to give you answers and peace of mind.

Book a consultation today to discuss your symptoms and get clarity on your breast health. Early evaluation brings reassurance, and when needed, timely treatment.

Stage 3 Breast Cancer Explained: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and What Recovery Looks Like

A diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer can feel overwhelming, but understanding what it means and what treatment involves can help you take things one step at a time. At this stage, breast cancer is serious, but still treatable. Many women go on to live full lives with the right combination of medical care, support, and follow-up.

This guide explains what stage 3 breast cancer is, how it’s treated, and what recovery looks like after treatment.

---

Key Pointers

• Stage 3 breast cancer means the disease has spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissue, but not to distant organs.
• Symptoms can include breast swelling, skin dimpling, and underarm lumps.
• Treatment usually involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy (depending on cancer type).
• Early diagnosis and combined treatment improve long-term outcomes.
• Regular follow-up and healthy lifestyle changes support recovery and reduce recurrence risk.

---

What Is Stage 3 Breast Cancer?

Stage 3 breast cancer is considered locally advanced, which means the cancer has grown beyond the breast but has not spread to distant parts of the body like the lungs or liver.

Doctors classify stage 3 breast cancer into sub-categories, 3A, 3B, and 3C, based on the tumour’s size, lymph node involvement, and whether nearby tissues such as the chest wall or skin are affected.

At this stage, treatment focuses on controlling the disease, shrinking tumours, and preventing further spread. With proper treatment, many women achieve remission and long-term stability.

What Are the Common Symptoms?

Some women with stage 3 breast cancer notice changes in one breast before diagnosis, while others discover it during imaging tests. Common symptoms include:

• A lump that feels firm, irregular, or fixed in place
• Swelling in part or all of the breast
• Skin changes such as dimpling, redness, or thickening (like orange peel)
• Nipple changes, inversion, discharge, or scaling
• Swollen lymph nodes near the armpit or collarbone
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area

Even though not all these signs mean cancer, it’s important to see a doctor if you notice any of them. Early medical assessment makes a difference.

What Are the Treatment Options for Stage 3 Breast Cancer?

Treatment for stage 3 breast cancer often involves a combination of therapies designed to remove or destroy cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

1. Surgery

Depending on the tumour’s size and location, your doctor may recommend:

• Mastectomy (removal of the entire breast)
• Breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) followed by radiation
• Lymph node removal if cancer has spread there

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumour or after surgery (adjuvant) to target remaining cancer cells.

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation helps eliminate any cancer cells left in the breast or nearby lymph nodes after surgery. It’s often part of the treatment plan for stage 3 breast cancer.

4. Hormone Therapy or Targeted Therapy

If the tumour is hormone receptor-positive (ER/PR+) or HER2-positive, you may receive additional medication to block hormone or protein activity that fuels cancer growth.

Your treatment plan will be personalised based on tumour biology, general health, and response to therapy.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Recovery from stage 3 breast cancer takes time, physically and emotionally. Many patients spend several months undergoing treatment, followed by a period of healing and follow-up care.

During recovery:

• You may experience fatigue, mild discomfort, or emotional ups and downs.
  
• Regular follow-up visits will include physical exams and imaging to monitor progress.
  
• Lifestyle choices, balanced nutrition, exercise, and stress management, help boost recovery.
  
• Support groups and counselling can help you navigate the emotional side of treatment.
  

While there’s always a risk of recurrence, many women go on to live long, healthy lives with continued medical follow-up and self-care.

---

FAQs About Stage 3 Breast Cancer

1. Is stage 3 breast cancer curable?
Stage 3 breast cancer is treatable, and many women achieve remission. The goal of treatment is to control the disease and prevent it from spreading.

2. How long is treatment for stage 3 breast cancer?
Treatment often lasts 6 to 12 months, depending on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation schedules. Long-term medication like hormone therapy may continue for several years.

3. Can stage 3 breast cancer come back?
There is a chance of recurrence, which is why regular follow-ups are important. Lifestyle changes and ongoing medical supervision reduce this risk.

4. What’s the survival rate for stage 3 breast cancer?
With modern treatment approaches, many women live for decades after diagnosis. Individual outcomes depend on factors like tumour type, response to therapy, and overall health.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you don’t have to face it alone. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis and surgical planning to ongoing support and recovery guidance.

Book a consultation today to discuss your treatment options, get clarity on your diagnosis, and your recovery. Your care and comfort come first, always.

Why Women in Their 20s, 40s, and Beyond May Need a Breast Doctor

Breast health is important at every stage of life, but the concerns women face can differ depending on their age. From benign lumps in young women to screening needs in midlife and changes related to menopause, a breast doctor can provide guidance, reassurance, and treatment tailored to each stage.

---

Key Pointers

• In your 20s, most lumps are benign, but it’s still important to get them checked.
• In your 40s, regular mammograms and screenings become essential.
• In your 50s and beyond, hormonal changes after menopause may bring new breast health concerns.
• A breast doctor supports women through all stages, offering reassurance, diagnosis, and treatment when needed.
• Self-awareness matters, but professional guidance ensures nothing is overlooked.

---

Why Might Women in Their 20s See a Breast Doctor?

In your 20s, breast cancer is uncommon, but benign lumps are more frequent. Conditions like fibroadenomas (smooth, movable lumps) or cysts are typical at this age. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can also make breasts feel lumpier or more tender.

While these changes are usually harmless, they can be worrying if you’re not sure what’s normal. A breast doctor can:

• Examine and confirm if a lump is benign
• Provide imaging such as ultrasound if needed
• Offer reassurance and advice on breast self-exams
  

Why Are the 40s a Key Decade for Breast Screening?

For women in their 40s, breast cancer risk begins to rise. This is the age when routine mammogram screening is usually recommended, especially if there are risk factors like family history.

A breast doctor helps by:

• Ordering and interpreting mammograms and ultrasounds
• Advising on screening frequency based on personal risk
• Checking any persistent lumps or changes in the breast

This stage is about early detection, when treatment is often more effective.

What About Breast Health Beyond Menopause?

In the 50s and 60s, hormonal changes due to menopause can cause breast tissue to become less dense but also more prone to changes like calcifications or skin thickening. Some women may also experience tenderness or nipple changes.

A breast doctor can help by:

• Monitoring new or unusual changes
• Distinguishing harmless post-menopausal changes from issues that need attention
• Offering guidance on managing breast health alongside other midlife changes
  

How Does a Breast Doctor Support Women Across All Ages?

No matter your age, a breast doctor provides:

• Clarity when something feels unusual
• Diagnosis through imaging or biopsy if required
• Personalised guidance based on family history, lifestyle, and age
• Reassurance that you’re not facing concerns alone

Breast health isn’t about waiting for symptoms; it’s about ongoing awareness and timely checks.

---

FAQs About Breast Health by Age

1. Should women in their 20s get mammograms?
Routine mammograms are not usually recommended at this age unless there are strong risk factors. Ultrasounds are more commonly used for younger women with breast concerns.

2. How often should women in their 40s get screened?
Most guidelines suggest annual or biennial mammograms from age 40 onwards. Your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent screening if you have a higher risk.

3. Do breast changes after menopause always signal a problem?
Not always. Hormonal shifts can cause changes in texture or size. Still, any new lump or persistent change should be checked by a doctor.

4. Is breast pain always linked to cancer?
No. Breast pain is more often related to hormones, cysts, or infections. But persistent pain with other changes should be evaluated.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

Whatever your age, it’s natural to have questions about breast health. Breast specialist, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to support you, whether you’re in your 20s noticing a lump, in your 40s due for a screening, or beyond menopause and navigating new changes.

Book a consultation today and be proactive in giving yourself peace of mind and long-term breast health.

Can You Tell the Difference Between Cancerous and Benign Lumps?

Finding a lump in your breast can be unsettling. Naturally, the first question that comes to mind is whether it could be cancer. While some lumps are concerning, many are harmless (benign). Understanding the difference is useful. But it’s equally important to remember that self-checks are not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.

---

Key Pointers

• Cancerous lumps often feel hard, irregular, and immovable.
• Benign lumps are usually smooth, softer, and can move slightly under the skin.
• Not all painful lumps are cancer—many are due to cysts or fibroadenomas.
• Self-exams are important for awareness, but only a doctor can confirm the cause.
• If you notice changes that persist, it’s best to seek medical advice.
  

---

What Do Cancerous Lumps Usually Feel Like?

Cancerous lumps often have distinctive features compared to benign ones. They are more likely to feel:

• Hard or firm to the touch
• Irregular in shape rather than smooth and round
• Immovable, fixed in one spot rather than shifting under your fingers
  

These lumps usually do not go away with your menstrual cycle. While not all cancerous lumps are painful, some women do experience discomfort.

What About Benign Lumps? How Do They Feel?

Benign lumps come in different forms, but they often share some common characteristics:

• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that feel smooth and can sometimes be tender, especially before your period.
• Fibroadenomas: Solid, rubbery lumps that move easily under the skin and are often painless.
• Lipomas: Soft, fatty lumps that grow slowly and are harmless.

Benign lumps can fluctuate with hormonal changes, becoming more noticeable at certain times of the month.

Are Self-Exams Enough to Tell the Difference?

Self-exams are important because they help you become familiar with your own body and notice changes early. However, you cannot rely on touch alone to know if a lump is cancerous or not.

Medical imaging (like mammograms or ultrasounds) and sometimes biopsies are needed for a clear diagnosis. This is why self-checks should be paired with regular medical screenings and follow-up appointments.

Is It Time To See a Breast Doctor?

You should make an appointment if you notice:

• A new lump that does not go away after your menstrual cycle
• Changes in the size, shape, or texture of a lump
• Skin changes such as redness, dimpling, or puckering
• Nipple discharge, especially if bloody or persistent
• Ongoing pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve

It’s always safer to get reassurance and clarity from a professional rather than waiting and worrying.

---

FAQs About Breast Lumps

1. Are painful lumps more likely to be cancer?
Not necessarily. Many painful lumps are caused by cysts, infections, or hormonal changes. Cancerous lumps are often painless in the early stages.

2. Can breast lumps go away on their own?
Some benign lumps, especially cysts linked to hormonal changes, may shrink or disappear over time. But any persistent lump should be checked.

3. Should younger women worry about breast lumps?
While breast cancer is less common in younger women, benign lumps are more frequent in this age group. It’s still important to get any new lump assessed.

4. If I had a clear mammogram, can I ignore a lump?
No. Mammograms are useful, but they don’t always detect every type of lump. Always consult your doctor if you find a new or changing lump.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’ve found a lump and aren’t sure what it means, don’t leave it to guesswork. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through the next steps.

Book a consultation today for clarity and peace of mind. Your health and reassurance matter, and we’re here to support you.

How to Manage Lactational Disorders at Home

Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Many women face challenges along the way, particularly with blocked ducts or mastitis. These conditions can be painful and frustrating, but the good news is that there are simple steps you can take at home to manage them, and knowing when to seek medical help is equally important.

Key Pointers

• Blocked ducts can lead to mastitis if not managed early.
• Home care includes warmth, massage, frequent feeding, hydration, and rest.
• Painful lumps aren’t always infections, but persistent symptoms need review.
• Mastitis can cause flu-like symptoms, this is when medical help is needed.
• Seeking advice promptly can prevent complications like abscesses.

Blocked Ducts: Why They Happen

A blocked duct occurs when milk isn’t draining properly from a part of the breast. This can create a tender, firm lump that may feel sore.

Common causes include:

• Skipping or shortening feeds
• Poor latching or positioning of the baby
• Tight clothing or bras pressing against the breast
• Stress and fatigue affecting milk flow

Mastitis: When Infection Sets In

If a blocked duct isn’t relieved, it can sometimes lead to mastitis, a breast infection. Mastitis often causes:

• Redness and swelling in the breast
• Intense pain
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue

It’s important to recognise mastitis early so treatment can start promptly.

Managing Symptoms at Home

Many cases of blocked ducts and early mastitis can improve with self-care measures. Here are some simple things you can do:

• Keep feeding or pumping frequently: Aim to empty the breast regularly, even if it’s uncomfortable at first. This helps clear the blockage.
• Try different feeding positions: Pointing your baby’s chin toward the blocked area can encourage better drainage.
• Apply a warm compress before feeds: Warmth helps milk flow more easily. A warm shower can also be soothing.
• Massage the lump gently: Stroke from behind the blockage toward the nipple while feeding or pumping.
• Stay hydrated and rest: Your body needs energy and fluids to keep milk supply steady and support recovery.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Avoid bras that dig into the breast.
  

When to Seek Medical Advice

While many blockages clear with home care, there are times when professional help is necessary. Contact your doctor if:

• You develop a fever or flu-like symptoms
• The breast pain or swelling worsens instead of improving
• There’s pus or blood in the milk
• You’ve tried home measures for 24–48 hours with no relief

Antibiotics may be prescribed for mastitis, and in some cases, further treatment is needed to prevent abscesses from forming.

Looking After Yourself Matters Too

It’s easy to focus only on the baby’s needs during breastfeeding, but your well-being is just as important. Getting enough rest, eating nourishing meals, and asking for support from family members can make recovery smoother and help prevent recurring blockages.

Need Guidance? We’re Here to Help

If you’re struggling with blocked ducts, mastitis, or other breastfeeding challenges, you don’t have to manage it alone. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can provide thorough evaluation, treatment if needed, and personalised advice to help you continue your breastfeeding journey with comfort and confidence.

Book a consultation today to get the support you need, for your health and your baby’s well-being.