What should you know about excision of intraductal papilloma?

An intraductal papilloma is a small growth within a milk duct. It may cause clear or bloody nipple discharge or be found during breast imaging. Excision is usually planned when the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms persist, or the tissue needs a fuller examination. A surgeon removes the papilloma and a margin of nearby tissue through a small incision, often around the edge of the areola. The removed tissue is sent for laboratory examination; this result guides whether any further care is needed.

Before surgery, tell the team about medicines, allergies, pregnancy possibility and previous breast procedures. Follow instructions about eating, drinking and medicines. Afterward, expect tenderness, bruising and swelling around the incision. Keep the wound clean and dry as directed, wear the recommended support, and use only approved pain relief. Avoid strenuous lifting until your surgeon says it is appropriate. Keep the appointment where the tissue result and next steps are discussed.

Contact the team if redness spreads, pain is worsening rather than settling, the wound opens, discharge becomes unpleasant-smelling, or you develop a fever. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness or fainting. A small amount of bruising can be expected, but a rapidly enlarging swelling needs prompt review.

Ask whether a needle sample has already confirmed the papilloma, where the incision will be, how the operation may affect nipple sensation or appearance, and when the tissue result should arrive. Ask which activities to pause and what symptoms require a call. You can read about [Breast Lump Excision](/treatments/breast-care/breast-lump-excision/) and [Breast Biopsy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/breast-biopsy/).