Fibroadenomas

I have 2 fibroadenomas in my right breast. One was detected 2 years ago and the other one more recently, after having an ultrasound following my pregnancy.

The doctor is now considering have them removed. I would like to know when is the "turning point" to start to consider surgery. That is, is it size, number, location or what. 2 years ago she said it was not necessary and now she is pushing me into it (in a nice way, I feel comfortable with that).

Also I would like to know what to expect from this surgery: length, time of recovery, type of anesthesia, will the mass be analyzed, do I have to make any special preparations.

Thank you!

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear questions:  In general, there is no reason to remove fibroadenomas - as long as you are SURE they are fibroadenomas.  There are 2 reasons to remove fibroadenomas, the patient wants them out or they grow.  Generally, surgery is done outpatient and has a relatively short recovery.  The mass should be analyzed by pathology.  You should discuss with your doctor the specifics of the surgery.

[Geral]

Hi!  Recently, my niece had 2 fibroadenomas removed (1 from each breast).  The surgery only took about an hour.  Fortunately, both were BENIGN!  She has had pain.  She took pain medication which made her nauseated and constipated.  I'm telling you all of this, so maybe you can avoid the mistakes she made.  If one pain med doesn't 'agree' with you, don't keep taking it like she did for several days.  Call your dr. for another.  Also, be sure to drink plenty of water and eat, so you won't be constipated from the pain med.  Ice or heat may help ease your pain. My niece has been out of work for 2 weeks and is feeling much better.  She probably would have gone back to work before now, but she has a physically demanding job. Your incisions need time to heal.  Good luck! -Geral

[jenny1972]

I just recently had 3 fibroadenomas removed and surprisingly it was very painless . I only needed the pain meds for 3 days, and the only reason I had them removed is because they were pretty large and sometimes painful but the surgery wasn't bad at all.