When Should You Start Breast Cancer Screening? Guidelines and Risk Factors to Consider

Beyond Breast Cancer: 5 Other Things a Mammogram Can Reveal About Your Health

When we think about mammograms, breast cancer screening usually comes to mind, and for good reason. Mammograms are a key tool in catching cancer early. But did you know that these scans can sometimes reveal other health conditions too? A mammogram does more than just check for cancer; it can offer valuable insights into your overall breast health, and even hint at other concerns that may need attention.

Here are five surprising things a mammogram might uncover.

1. Benign Tumours That Are Not Cancerous

Not every lump or bump picked up on a mammogram is cancer. Sometimes, scans reveal benign tumours like fibroadenomas. These are non-cancerous growths made up of glandular and connective tissue.

Fibroadenomas are quite common, especially in younger women, and they usually feel firm, smooth, and move easily under the skin. They often do not require treatment unless they are large, uncomfortable, or changing over time. Your doctor may suggest monitoring them through regular check-ups rather than removing them straightaway.

2. Fluid-Filled Cysts

Another common finding is breast cysts, fluid-filled sacs within the breast tissue. They can feel like soft or firm lumps and might become more noticeable during hormonal changes, like before a period.

Cysts are usually harmless and can be left alone if they are not causing discomfort. Sometimes, if a cyst is large or painful, it can be drained with a simple procedure. Mammograms, often paired with breast ultrasounds, can help distinguish between cysts and solid masses, offering reassurance when it’s needed most.

3. Signs of Heart Disease

It might sound surprising, but a mammogram can sometimes offer clues about your heart health. During the scan, calcium deposits can sometimes be seen in the arteries of the breast.

These calcium deposits, known as breast arterial calcifications, are not linked to breast cancer but may be a sign of arterial hardening, which can point to a higher risk of heart disease. While not a diagnostic tool for heart conditions, noticing these deposits can prompt your doctor to recommend further cardiovascular checks, especially if you have other risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.

4. Dense Breast Tissue

Mammograms also provide information about breast density. Women with dense breast tissue have less fat and more glandular or fibrous tissue, which can make it harder to spot abnormalities on a mammogram.

Having dense breasts is common and not a medical problem in itself, but it may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. Knowing your breast density can help guide future screening strategies, such as supplementing mammograms with breast ultrasound or MRI for clearer imaging.

5. Calcifications That Need a Closer Look

Tiny specks of calcium, called microcalcifications, sometimes appear on a mammogram. Most microcalcifications are harmless and linked to benign changes like ageing or past injuries to the breast tissue. However, certain patterns of calcifications can signal early signs of breast cancer or pre-cancerous changes.

If something unusual is seen, your doctor may recommend further imaging or a biopsy to get a clearer understanding of what’s happening.

Book Your Mammogram at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

A mammogram is about more than detecting breast cancer, it’s a window into your overall breast health and sometimes even your heart health. Whether it’s your first time or you’re due for a follow-up, staying on top of regular screenings is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to guide you with care and clarity.

Book a consultation or mammogram appointment today.

Breast Reduction in Your 20s, 40s, or 60s: How Age Affects Surgery and Recovery

Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing at any age, but how your body responds to surgery and heals afterward can differ depending on your stage in life. Whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or 60s, it’s important to understand how factors like skin elasticity, hormone levels, and recovery time can influence the experience and outcomes of the procedure.

Here’s what to consider based on your age if you’re thinking about taking this step.

In Your 20s: Youthful Skin and Faster Healing

For women in their 20s, breast reduction is often driven by physical discomfort (like back or shoulder pain), difficulty with exercise, or unwanted attention. At this age, the body’s natural healing processes tend to work more efficiently, and skin generally has good elasticity, which means it can bounce back and reshape well after surgery.

What to expect:

• Quicker recovery – You may feel ready to return to light activity within a couple of weeks.
  
• Firmer skin – Elastic skin often leads to more defined results.
  
• Future changes – Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or breastfeeding later in life can affect the long-term appearance of the breasts, so this should be factored into your decision.
  

In Your 40s: Balancing Recovery with Hormonal Shifts

Many women in their 40s choose breast reduction after years of discomfort or frustration with their breast size. By this age, hormonal changes may already be starting, whether due to perimenopause or other life changes, which can influence breast tissue and healing.

What to expect:

• Slightly slower healing – Recovery may take a little longer than in your 20s, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or health conditions.
  
• Hormonal influences – Breast tissue can be more affected by hormonal shifts, which may cause swelling or tenderness during the healing process.
  
• Established body shape – Many women feel more certain about their decision at this stage and are unlikely to face major changes like pregnancy, which can alter results.
  

In Your 60s: Comfort and Quality of Life Over Aesthetics

Breast reduction is not just for younger women, many women in their 60s opt for surgery to improve posture, ease chronic back or neck pain, or simply feel lighter and more comfortable in their bodies. At this age, the decision is often about comfort and health rather than aesthetics.

What to expect:

• Slower tissue recovery – Healing may take longer, and you may need more rest in the weeks following surgery.
  
• Reduced skin elasticity – Skin may not “snap back” as easily, but skilled surgical techniques can still provide a natural, lifted result.
  
• Health considerations – It’s important to discuss any pre-existing conditions or medications with your surgeon, as these can affect how your body responds to anaesthesia and healing.
  

Is There a Right Age for Breast Reduction?

There’s no “perfect” age for breast reduction, it all comes down to your personal goals, lifestyle, and overall health. The procedure can be safely and successfully performed across a wide age range, as long as the decision is made thoughtfully and in consultation with a qualified surgeon.

Whether you’re looking to feel more confident, move more freely, or reduce discomfort, breast reduction can be a powerful step towards improving your quality of life, regardless of your age.

Thinking About Breast Reduction? Let’s Talk.

If you’re considering breast reduction, whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or 60s, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to walk you through the process. We understand that every woman’s body and journey are different, and we’ll take the time to help you explore your options.

Book a consultation today for greater comfort, mobility, and confidence, at any age.

Breast Health in Your 20s: Why Self-Awareness Is Just as Important as Screening

When you’re in your 20s, breast cancer might feel like a distant concern. After all, regular mammogram screenings are usually only recommended from your 40s onward. But taking charge of your breast health early isn’t about jumping into medical tests; it’s about becoming familiar with your own body, recognising what’s normal for you, and speaking up if something doesn’t feel right.

Here’s why self-awareness in your 20s is just as powerful as any test and how to start building that awareness today.

Know What’s Normal for You

Every woman’s breasts are different. They can change during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or with weight fluctuations, and that’s perfectly normal. But this is also why it’s helpful to regularly check in with your body.

Learning how your breasts usually look and feel will help you notice if something seems off. You’re not looking for a specific symptom, just anything that feels new, different, or persistent.

This might include:

• A lump or area that feels thicker than the rest of the tissue
• Skin changes like dimpling or redness
• Nipple discharge that’s unusual for you
• One breast looking noticeably different from the other

If you notice something, don’t panic, but do follow up with a doctor. Early conversations are key.

How to Do a Self-Exam Without Overthinking It

You don’t need to follow a strict checklist. Self-checks don’t have to be clinical, they just need to become part of your routine.

Here’s a simple way to get started:

• Once a month: Choose a consistent time, ideally a few days after your period ends when your breasts are less tender.
• In front of a mirror: Look for changes in size, shape, or skin.
• In the shower or lying down: Use the pads of your fingers to feel around the entire breast and underarm area in a circular motion.

Think of it as getting to know your normal, rather than looking for something wrong.

Do You Need a Mammogram in Your 20s?

In most cases, no. Routine mammograms are not usually recommended for women in their 20s unless there is a medical reason.

You might be advised to start screening early if you:

• Have a strong family history of breast cancer
• Carry a known genetic mutation such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
• Have had previous chest radiation therapy at a young age

If any of these apply to you, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor about when to start more regular screenings.

Lifestyle Habits That Support Long-Term Breast Health

Taking care of your breast health also means looking after your overall health. The choices you make in your 20s can have a lasting impact.

Here are a few simple steps to support long-term well-being:

• Stay active with regular movement or exercise
• Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats
• Manage stress with sleep, rest, and support when needed

These habits won’t just support breast health, they’ll help you feel your best now and in the future.

Got Questions or Concerns? Let’s Talk

If you’re unsure about a lump or discomfort or just have questions about your breast health, it’s always okay to check in with a doctor. You don’t need to wait for a specific symptom or reason to start the conversation.

Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help you navigate your breast health at any age. Whether it’s learning how to do a self-exam or understanding your risk factors, we offer support without judgment.

Book a consultation today for confident, informed self-care. Because when it comes to breast health, awareness is power, especially in your 20s.

Is Breast Reduction Surgery the Right Choice for Breast Hypertrophy?

Living with overly large breasts, also known as breast hypertrophy, can come with more than just cosmetic concerns. For many women, it can mean physical discomfort, limitations in daily movement, and a significant impact on emotional well-being. If you’ve been struggling with these challenges, you might be wondering whether breast reduction surgery is the right step forward.

Let’s explore when surgery becomes a practical option, what the procedure involves, and what you can expect during recovery.

What Is Breast Hypertrophy and How Does It Affect You?

Breast hypertrophy refers to an excessive enlargement of breast tissue. While there’s no strict medical definition, it’s generally diagnosed when the size of the breasts causes physical or emotional issues, including:

• Persistent neck, shoulder, or back pain
• Skin irritation under the breasts
• Difficulty with physical activities or finding supportive bras
• Poor posture and fatigue
• Feelings of self-consciousness or social discomfort

If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, it may be time to consider your options.

When Is Breast Reduction Surgery Recommended?

Breast reduction surgery may be recommended when other options, like physical therapy, posture correction, supportive garments, or pain management, haven’t brought relief.

You may be a suitable candidate for surgery if:

• You’ve been diagnosed with macromastia or gigantomastia (clinical terms for significantly enlarged breasts)
• You experience chronic pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• You feel limited in what you can wear or do due to the size or weight of your breasts
• Imaging tests have ruled out other underlying breast conditions, and your surgeon deems surgery safe and appropriate

Your decision doesn’t have to be based on discomfort alone, many women seek surgery to regain confidence and improve their quality of life.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Breast reduction surgery involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to achieve a smaller, more proportionate breast size. The procedure also reshapes the breasts and may reposition the nipples to suit the new shape.

Your surgeon will discuss different surgical techniques based on your breast size, body type, and personal goals. The operation typically lasts a few hours and is done under general anaesthesia. Most women return home the same day or after an overnight stay, depending on the complexity of the procedure.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Reduction?

Many women report a noticeable improvement soon after surgery, both physically and emotionally. Common benefits include:

• Relief from pain in the shoulders, neck, and back
• Greater freedom in movement, including exercise and daily routines
• Improved posture and reduced strain on the spine
• Easier bra and clothing fit
• Boost in confidence and reduced self-consciousness

These outcomes often lead to a more comfortable and active lifestyle, allowing women to return to activities they may have once avoided.

Recovery: What Can You Expect?

Recovery after breast reduction surgery varies, but most women can return to light activities within two weeks. Here’s what to expect during the healing period:

• Swelling and bruising are common in the first few days
• You’ll be advised to wear a supportive post-surgery bra to aid healing
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks
• Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress

Scars are part of the healing process, but they typically fade over time. It’s important to give your body time to adjust and heal properly.

Thinking About Breast Reduction? We’re Here to Help

Choosing breast reduction surgery is a deeply personal decision, and it’s normal to have questions or hesitations. If you’re considering surgery for breast hypertrophy and want to understand your options, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to guide you.

We’ll take the time to talk through your symptoms, expectations, and goals so you can make an informed decision about what’s right for you.

Book a consultation today and take the first step towards feeling more comfortable, confident, and in control of your health.

How Can Breast Reduction Surgery Improve Health, Comfort, and Confidence

Breast reduction surgery is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure, but for many women, it is about much more than appearance. Large, heavy breasts can cause physical discomfort, affect daily activities, and impact confidence. Breast reduction can provide relief and improve overall well-being in ways that go beyond aesthetics.

Here’s how this procedure can help with health, mobility, and comfort, and what to expect if you’re considering it.

Relief from Pain and Discomfort

One of the biggest reasons women choose breast reduction is to ease the physical strain caused by large breasts. Common issues include:

• Chronic Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain – The weight of heavy breasts can pull the shoulders forward, causing strain on the upper body.
• Skin Irritation – The skin underneath the breasts can become red, irritated, and even develop rashes due to friction and trapped moisture.
• Grooves from Bra Straps – Many women with large breasts experience deep indentations in their shoulders from bra straps struggling to support the weight.

By reducing breast size, women often experience significant relief, making everyday activities more comfortable.

Improved Mobility and Physical Activity

Large breasts can make exercise difficult, often leading to discomfort during activities like running, yoga, or even brisk walking. Many women find that:

• High-impact exercises become painful or impractical.
• Posture is affected, leading to strain on the back and shoulders.
• Breathlessness and chest tightness can occur due to excess weight in the chest area.

After breast reduction, women often find it easier to move freely, enjoy workouts without discomfort, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Better Clothing Fit and More Wardrobe Options

Finding clothes that fit well can be frustrating when breasts are disproportionately large compared to the rest of the body. Many women struggle with:

• Button-up shirts pulling at the chest area.
• Difficulty finding well-fitting bras that provide support without digging into the skin.
• Limited options for dresses and tops that feel comfortable and flattering.

Breast reduction allows for a wider range of clothing choices, helping women feel more confident and comfortable in their outfits.

Boost in Confidence and Mental Well-being

For some women, large breasts can cause self-consciousness, unwanted attention, or difficulty maintaining a posture that feels natural. This can lead to:

• Lower self-esteem and discomfort in social settings.
• Emotional distress due to feeling out of proportion or struggling with body image.
• Avoidance of certain activities due to embarrassment or discomfort.

By achieving a breast size that feels more in balance with the body, many women experience a boost in confidence and an improved sense of well-being.

Who Might Consider Breast Reduction?

Breast reduction is a personal choice, but it may be worth considering if you:

• Experience persistent pain or discomfort due to breast size.
• Struggle with mobility or physical activity limitations.
• Feel self-conscious or emotionally distressed about your breast size.
• Have trouble finding comfortable clothing or bras.

If these challenges sound familiar, speaking to a surgeon can help you understand whether this procedure is right for you.

Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’re considering breast reduction and want to understand your options, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to help. We offer personalised care to guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring you have the information you need to feel confident in your choice.

Book a consultation today to learn how breast reduction surgery can improve your comfort, mobility, and confidence. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

How Breast Cancer Treatment Affects Women’s Bodies?

Going through breast cancer treatment is a journey that affects not only your health but also how you feel physically and emotionally. Each woman’s experience is different, but knowing what to expect and finding ways to manage side effects can make a big difference.

This guide walks through some of the changes you might face during treatment and offers practical ways to cope.

Fatigue

One of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment is feeling extremely tired. This isn’t just regular tiredness, it’s a deep exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix.

Why It Happens:

• Chemotherapy and radiation affect healthy cells as well as cancer cells, which can leave your body working harder to recover.
• Changes in hormone levels can contribute to feeling sluggish.
• Anxiety and disrupted sleep can also play a part.

Ways to Manage:

• Allow yourself to rest when needed, but also try light activities like short walks to boost energy.
• Maintain a balanced diet with enough protein, iron, and hydration to help with energy levels.
• Ask for help, whether it’s childcare, housework, or errands, letting others support you can ease the load.

Hair Loss

Losing hair is one of the changes people often associate with cancer treatment, and it can be an emotional experience. Not everyone loses their hair, but chemotherapy can cause thinning or complete hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes.

Why It Happens:

• Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, which includes hair follicles.
• Not all treatments cause hair loss, so your doctor can let you know what to expect based on your specific treatment plan.

Ways to Manage:

• Some women choose to shave their heads before hair loss starts to feel more in control of the process.
• Headscarves, wigs, and hats can help if you feel self-conscious.
• Cold caps, which reduce blood flow to the scalp during chemotherapy, may help slow hair loss in some cases.
• Remember that hair usually starts growing back a few months after treatment ends, although texture and colour might change temporarily.

Hormonal Changes

Breast cancer treatments, especially those that affect oestrogen levels, can lead to sudden menopause or menopause-like symptoms. This can cause hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and changes in libido.

Why It Happens:

• Some treatments, such as hormone therapy, block oestrogen to slow cancer growth.
• Surgery to remove the ovaries, if recommended, triggers menopause immediately.

Ways to Manage:

• Dress in layers and keep a fan nearby to help with hot flushes.
• Reduce spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can make symptoms worse.
• Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help with mood swings and anxiety.
• Speak to your doctor about non-hormonal treatments that may help with symptom relief.

Changes in the Body

It’s common for women to notice changes in their weight during treatment. Some find that chemotherapy and steroids cause weight gain, while others experience loss of appetite and struggle to maintain their usual weight.

Ways to Manage:

• If you’re gaining weight, focus on balanced meals rather than cutting calories, as your body needs nutrients to recover.
• If you’re losing weight, try eating smaller meals more frequently, and include protein-rich snacks.
• Gentle movement, like walking or stretching, can help with metabolism and muscle strength.

Emotional Well-being

Cancer treatment affects not only the body but also the mind. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, from anxiety and frustration to sadness or even guilt.

Ways to Cope:

• Talk to someone, a friend, family member, or a counsellor.
• Join a support group where you can connect with women going through similar experiences.
• Try journaling, art, or mindfulness exercises to process emotions.
• Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel low some days, and it’s okay to ask for help.

We’re Here to Support You

Breast cancer treatment is challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you have questions about side effects, need guidance on symptom management, or simply want to talk through your concerns, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here for you.

Book a consultation today to get personalised advice and support tailored to your needs. Your well-being matters, and we’re here to help you through every step of the journey.