fibroadenoma and phyllodes

[s40]

I  an now 46 years old, had a core needle biopsy diagnose two masses in left breast 18 months ago.  One was benign phyllodes tumor and one was a fibroadenoma.  I had the phyllodes tumor removed.  I recently noticed a lump in same breast and went info mammogram.  It indicated that it was the same fibroadnoma that was diagnosed but had now grown, which it is recommended now that I have it removed.  At the same time there were two more in other sections of breast, and biopsies were taking of these as well.  These two were also diagnosed with fibroadenoma.  (I also had an excisional biopsy removed 10 years prior to this one that was a fibroadenoma and was told it was the size of a small lemon.

I know that since I have had a phyllodes new masses are treated more cautiously.  But these apparently came back fiboradenoma.  Before pathology was back with final results sugeo indicated we should probably take all out, unless phyllodes in which case probably mastectomy.  I haven't gone back in yet to discuss options with him yet.

I want opinion on whether I should have all three of these removed, just the one that's showing growth since prior biopsy or just leave them and look at mammo and ultrasound again in 6 months to see if there is more growth.  The current location of the 3 present and the one phyllodes that was removed is all in left breast, and with one being in each quadrant. After having two removed (one fibroadenom and one phyllodes) in different sections already, I am not thrilled about three more sections.  

[japdip]

In most cases you can inquire at the hospital regarding who specializes in what. If there is a Breast Clinic nearby you might call them and they would be able to give you names. If you have that much confidence in the Surgeon you have then his  opinion may be sufficient for you. You could also ask him; I know my Surgeon offered names for a second opinion as most Dr.s will in most cases which I consider excellent medical practice. Oncology offices usually know also and are willing to give pt.s the names of appropriate Dr.s .. Take care

[s40]

Thank you for your advice. How would I go about finding out if a physician is a breast specialist? I think the surgeon I just saw is a breast specialist and he meets weekly on a tumor board, but he also treats other types of cancers as well.  I really liked him and I will definitely use him for surgery etc.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

[japdip]

The final decision of course will be yours and I see no rush to decide in this situation. It is pretty much standard to recommend the removal of Fibroadenomas in women over the age of 40. Most likely they will all increase in size but not necessarily at a rapid rate. I would take my time and perhaps get a second opinion from a Breast Specialist (not necessarily a Surgeon) before making my final decision.  Regards ...