Breast Cysts - Post Menopause (Surgical)

[Lamarti]

I am 53 years old.  Had a complete hysterectomy in 1997 (no ovaries).  No family history of breast cancer.  Tenderness in breast caused me to schedule my annual mammogram.  Result after ultrasound:  Bilobed but otherwise benign cysts accounting for dominant mass.  Several other smaller cysts are seen.  BI Rads 2.  As I have off and on pain from this cyst as it is near nipple went to have aspirated.  Consult advised it is complex cysts with some debris.  Still benign but needs to remove surgical.  Should I leave this alone or have it removed?  What could cause these cysts as I no longer have ovaries?

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear lamarti:  Cysts can technically develop at any age but are most common in perimenopausal women.  Cysts are less common in post menopausal women unless they are on hormone replacement therapy.  In any case, a cyst is a fluid filled structure and is benign.  In contrast a complex cyst has septums or areas that appear solid.  These are most often benign but may be removed to be certain that the solid components are benign as well.

[Lamarti]

Thank you for your response.

I failed to mention that I have not been on hormone replacement since approximately 1999.

I did have my thyroid checked and it was normal.  What other factors could cause these cysts.