Breast Lump — What It Might Be and What to Do
Also described as lump in breast, breast swelling, painless breast lump.
Most breast lumps are not cancer — cysts and fibroadenomas are common, particularly under 30. But a lump cannot be judged safe by feel alone, and a painless lump is not more reassuring than a painful one. Any new breast lump should be examined, with imaging where indicated, at Iswarya Hospital's breast clinic, OMR Chennai.
🚨 Get emergency care if you have
- •A hard lump that does not move under the skin
- •Dimpling or puckering of the skin over the breast
- •Nipple turning inward, or a change in its shape
- •Blood-stained discharge from one nipple
- •A lump in the armpit, or swelling of the whole breast
What causes breast lump?
Fibroadenoma
A smooth, firm, mobile lump — the commonest benign breast lump in younger women.
Breast cyst
A fluid-filled lump that may change with the menstrual cycle and can be tender.
Breast cancer
Often a hard, fixed, painless lump. When found early, five-year survival exceeds 90%.
Fat necrosis
A firm lump following injury or surgery to the breast, harmless but often needing imaging to confirm.
Infection or abscess
A painful, hot, red swelling, most often during breastfeeding.
How it is investigated
- ✓Clinical breast examination
- ✓Ultrasound for women under 40; 3D mammography for women over 40
- ✓Image-guided core biopsy where imaging is not clearly benign
- ✓Review by the breast tumour board when cancer is confirmed
Not every patient needs every test. The consultation decides which of these apply to you.
Frequently asked questions
Is a painless breast lump more serious than a painful one?▼
Pain is not a reliable guide either way. Cancerous lumps are often painless, which is precisely why a lump that does not hurt should still be examined. Both painful and painless lumps warrant assessment.
At what age should I start mammograms?▼
Screening mammography is generally advised from age 40, and earlier where there is a strong family history. Below 40, ultrasound is usually the first test because breast tissue is denser. A lump at any age should be examined rather than waiting for the next screening round.
How quickly can I get a breast lump checked?▼
Iswarya Hospital's breast clinic offers examination, ultrasound or mammography, and image-guided biopsy where needed. Call 044 2025 2025 to book. A new lump should not wait.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a consultation. Symptoms overlap between harmless and serious conditions, and only an examination can tell them apart. If you are worried, see a doctor.
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Your first consultation determines which tests or treatments are needed; not everyone needs every test listed on this page.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.