lumps and discharge

My Dr. recently discovered a lump in my left breast and discharge from both.  The discharge is green,brown, yellow on the right and on the left it is clear, but sticky and granular.  He took a smear, the samples were benign but found atypical cells.  I am also pursuing a breast reduction and have an appointment with a plastic surgeon.  There is a history of breast cancer on my mothers side.  Instead of a reduction should I just have them removed?  And what does atypical cells mean?  I am 33 years old, non smoker, do not drink alcohol or caffeine and used birth control pills for approx. 6 years.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear sueschmoo:  Atypical cells simply means that some of the cells have features that are atypical.  It does NOT mean that they are pre cancerous or that they will become cancerous.  Although discharge is common in many women, it can be monitored over time, in high risk women, either through ductal lavage or ductoscopy.  You should discuss your situation both with your medical doctor (or a breast specialist if one is available) as well as the plastic surgeon (to discuss future monitoring).  A mastectomy is not usually recommended unless the risk is considered to be very high.  A breast specialist may be able to help determine your risk and assist with decision making.