If I Notice Skin Lumps, Should I Worry Even If My Mammogram Is Clear?

What Is Partial Breast Reconstruction, Who Qualifies, and How It Helps Restore Shape After Lumpectomy

When a woman undergoes a lumpectomy to remove a breast lump or early-stage cancer, some may notice changes in the breast’s shape, volume, or symmetry afterwards. Partial breast reconstruction, also known as oncoplastic breast surgery, is designed to help restore the breast’s contour while keeping as much natural tissue as possible.

If you’ve been advised to have a lumpectomy or are exploring reconstruction options after breast-conserving surgery, here’s a clear guide on what partial breast reconstruction involves, who may be suitable for it, and what to expect.

---

Key Pointers

• Partial breast reconstruction is commonly performed after lumpectomy to correct contour irregularities or volume loss.
• Techniques include tissue rearrangement, local flaps, and symmetry surgery on the opposite breast if needed.
• Not every patient requires reconstruction; suitability depends on tumour size, location, and breast shape.
• The procedure aims to improve breast symmetry while maintaining safe cancer margins.
• A breast surgeon will guide you on timing, technique options, and expected results.

---

What Is Partial Breast Reconstruction?

Partial breast reconstruction is a surgical approach used after a lumpectomy to rebuild or reshape the breast. Instead of removing the entire breast, as in a mastectomy, a lumpectomy removes only the tumour and surrounding tissue. This can leave a visible defect or change in contour.

Partial reconstruction uses techniques such as:

• Tissue rearrangement within the breast
• Local tissue flaps from neighbouring areas (such as the side of the chest or back)
• Symmetry adjustments on the opposite breast if needed

The goal is to maintain a natural breast shape and appearance after tumour removal.

Who Qualifies for Partial Breast Reconstruction?

You may be suitable for partial reconstruction if:

• You are undergoing a lumpectomy for breast cancer or a benign tumour.
• The tumour is small to medium in size relative to your breast volume.
• You have enough remaining tissue to allow reshaping.
• The tumour is located in an area where reconstruction can safely be performed.
• You prefer to maintain your breasts as much as possible rather than undergoing a full mastectomy.

A breast surgeon will assess tumour characteristics, breast size, and your treatment plan, including whether you will require radiotherapy.

How Does Partial Breast Reconstruction Work?

The reconstruction is usually done during the same surgery as the lumpectomy to achieve immediate reshaping.
Common steps include:

1. Tumour removal with clear margins
2. Rearrangement of the remaining breast tissue to fill the defect
3. Use of a local flap if more volume is needed
4. Optional symmetry surgery on the other breast

In some cases, reconstruction may be delayed until after radiotherapy, depending on the clinical situation.

What Are the Benefits of Partial Breast Reconstruction?

Every woman’s needs are different, but many choose partial reconstruction because it:

• Maintains as much of the natural breast as possible
• Improves overall breast contour after lumpectomy
• Helps achieve symmetry between both breasts
• Reduces the need for a full mastectomy
• Supports emotional well-being by providing a more balanced appearance

While cosmetic improvement is one aspect, safety remains the priority; oncoplastic techniques ensure that cancer treatment is not compromised.

What Results Can You Expect After Surgery?

Healing is gradual, and swelling may take several weeks to settle. Over time, the breast generally adopts a natural look and feel. The final appearance depends on:

• Tumour size and location
• Surgical technique used
• Whether radiotherapy is administered
• Individual healing patterns

Regular follow-up with your breast surgeon ensures that healing progresses smoothly and that any concerns are addressed promptly.

---

FAQs About Partial Breast Reconstruction

1. Is partial breast reconstruction done at the same time as lumpectomy?
In most cases, yes. Performing both procedures together helps achieve better cosmetic outcomes.

2. Will I still need radiotherapy after lumpectomy and partial reconstruction?
Radiotherapy is often recommended after lumpectomy, regardless of reconstruction.

3. Is partial reconstruction safe in breast cancer surgery?
Yes. Oncoplastic techniques are designed to maintain cancer clearance while reshaping the breast.

4. Will reconstruction affect future mammograms?
Mammograms can still be performed, although the breast may look different internally. Inform your radiologist about your surgery.

5. Can partial reconstruction be done after radiotherapy?
Yes, but some techniques may be limited. Your surgeon will guide you on what is most appropriate.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

Restore Shape, Confidence, and Comfort After Lumpectomy

If you are planning a lumpectomy or exploring options to improve breast symmetry afterward, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can guide you through your reconstruction choices.

We offer clear explanations, personalised plans, and careful follow-up to support your treatment journey.

Book a consultation today to understand whether partial breast reconstruction is right for you and what to expect from the process.

What To Do With Breast Abscess While Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience, but it can also come with unexpected challenges. One of these is a breast abscess, a painful infection that can develop when blocked milk ducts or mastitis are not resolved early. Recognising the symptoms and seeking timely care can prevent complications and help you continue breastfeeding safely.

---

Key Pointers

• A breast abscess often starts as untreated mastitis or a blocked milk duct.
• Early signs include swelling, redness, warmth, and severe breast pain.
• Some women develop fever or flu-like symptoms.
• Ultrasound scans can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
• Early medical attention allows effective treatment and supports continued breastfeeding.

---

What Is a Breast Abscess?

A breast abscess is a pocket of pus that forms within the breast tissue due to infection. It usually occurs in women who are breastfeeding, especially after a case of mastitis (inflammation caused by trapped milk or bacteria entering through cracked nipples).

When bacteria grow in the milk ducts, the body’s immune response creates a collection of pus that feels like a painful lump under the skin.

What Are the Early Signs of a Breast Abscess?

The symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly. Watch for:

• A painful, firm lump in the breast that may feel warm to the touch
• Redness or swelling in one area
• Fever or chills, often signalling infection
• Pus or discharge from the nipple
• Fatigue or flu-like symptoms

If these signs appear, it’s best to seek medical attention early. Abscesses don’t always resolve with home remedies and may need drainage to heal properly.

How Is It Diagnosed?

A clinical examination and ultrasound are usually enough to confirm the diagnosis.

• The ultrasound helps identify whether the lump is solid or fluid-filled (confirming an abscess).
• If needed, the pus may be drained for laboratory testing to identify the bacteria causing the infection.

This step ensures that the prescribed antibiotics are effective for the specific infection.

How Is a Breast Abscess Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and how early it’s detected.

1. Antibiotics

If caught early, antibiotics may help control the infection before it forms an abscess.

2. Drainage

When an abscess has already formed, it usually needs to be drained. This can be done through:

• Needle aspiration under ultrasound guidance (a small needle removes the pus)
• Surgical drainage if the abscess is large or recurring

3. Pain Relief and Support

Applying warm compresses, staying hydrated, and continuing to empty the breast (by breastfeeding or pumping) can relieve discomfort and reduce milk buildup.

Can You Continue Breastfeeding?

In most cases, yes. Continuing to breastfeed, or at least express milk, helps prevent further engorgement and supports healing. Your doctor will guide you on whether to feed from the affected breast, depending on the infection’s severity and treatment. If breastfeeding from the infected side isn’t possible, it’s important to express milk to maintain supply and prevent new blockages.

---

FAQs About Breast Abscess While Breastfeeding

1. How is a breast abscess different from mastitis?
Mastitis is inflammation that can lead to infection. A breast abscess forms when pus collects due to untreated or severe mastitis.

2. Will I need surgery for a breast abscess?
Not always. Many abscesses can be treated with needle drainage under ultrasound guidance. Surgery is only needed for large or persistent cases.

3. Can I still breastfeed while taking antibiotics?
Yes, most prescribed antibiotics are safe during breastfeeding. Always check with your doctor before continuing.

4. How soon will I feel better after treatment?
Many women notice improvement within a few days after drainage and antibiotics, though complete healing may take a week or two.

5. Can a breast abscess come back?
Recurrence can happen, especially if milk stasis or cracked nipples persist. Proper breastfeeding technique and hygiene reduce the risk.

---

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re experiencing breast pain, swelling, or a lump while breastfeeding, it’s important to get checked early. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic provide careful evaluation, imaging, and treatment options to help you recover safely while maintaining your breastfeeding goals.

Book a consultation today to receive timely care and professional guidance for your breast health. Early treatment can prevent complications and make your recovery smoother.

When Should You Start Mammograms? Age Guidelines and Breast Cancer Risk Factors Women Should Know

Mammograms are one of the most reliable tools for detecting breast cancer early –often before any symptoms appear. But one common question many women have is: When should I start getting screened?

The answer depends on several factors, including your age, family history, and personal risk profile. Here’s what you should know about when to start mammogram screening, how often to get checked, and what factors may affect your schedule.

---

Key Pointers

• Most women should begin mammogram screenings around age 40.
• Women with family history or genetic risk may need to start earlier.
• Dense breast tissue can affect screening accuracy and may require additional imaging.
• Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and better outcomes.
• Consult your breast specialist to personalise your screening plan.
  

---

What Age Should You Start Mammograms?

In Singapore and many other countries, women aged 40 and above are encouraged to begin routine mammogram screenings.

• Ages 40–49: Screening every year is recommended, as this is when risk starts to increase.
• Ages 50–69: Screening every two years is advised if no new risk factors arise.

If you have no symptoms and no family history of breast cancer, starting at age 40 gives you the best chance of detecting changes early.

Should You Start Earlier If You Have Risk Factors?

Yes. Women at higher risk may need to start mammograms before 40. Risk factors include:

• A mother, sister, or daughter with breast cancer
• A known BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation
• A personal history of ovarian cancer or chest radiation
• Dense breast tissue, which makes it harder to spot abnormalities on imaging

Your doctor may also recommend complementary imaging tests such as breast ultrasound or MRI depending on your risk profile.

How Often Should You Get a Mammogram?

The frequency depends on your age and individual risk:

• Low-risk women (40–49): Once a year
• Moderate to high-risk women: Once a year or as advised by your doctor
• Low-risk women (50–69): Every two years

Consistent screening is key. Even if your previous mammogram was normal, new changes can occur over time.

Does Breast Density Affect Mammogram Screening?

Yes. Women with dense breasts have more glandular and connective tissue, which can make it harder to detect small changes on a mammogram. Dense tissue also slightly increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

If you have dense breasts, your doctor may recommend ultrasound or MRI scans in addition to regular mammograms for better accuracy.

What If You Notice Breast Changes Before 40?

If you find a lump, experience pain, or notice changes such as nipple discharge, swelling, or skin dimpling, do not wait for your next screening. Schedule a consultation immediately.

Breast symptoms at any age warrant medical evaluation, even if you’ve recently had a clear mammogram.

---

FAQs About Mammogram Screening

1. Is a mammogram painful? You may feel brief pressure during the scan, but it shouldn’t be painful. The compression lasts only a few seconds per image.

2. Can I do an ultrasound instead of a mammogram? An ultrasound is useful for younger women or those with dense breasts, but it does not replace a mammogram. Both are complementary.

3. How long does a mammogram take? The entire process usually takes 15–20 minutes, including positioning and imaging.

4. Do mammograms expose you to radiation? Yes, but the radiation dose is very low and considered safe. The benefits of early detection far outweigh the small risk.

5. Can I skip screening if I have no symptoms? No. Breast cancer can develop silently. Regular screening is essential for early detection, even if you feel fine.

---

Book Your Mammogram at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re approaching 40 –or have risk factors that mean you should start earlier– it’s time to take charge of your breast health. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic offer comprehensive breast assessments and guidance on when and how often to screen.

Book your mammogram screening today to stay proactive about your health. Early detection gives you peace of mind and the best possible protection for the years ahead.

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.