After a fibroadenoma is removed

Removal takes out the targeted lump, usually so symptoms improve, the diagnosis is settled, or both. The removed tissue is examined and the result should be discussed with you. Tenderness, bruising, swelling and a scar can occur as the breast heals. The shape of the breast may feel different for a while, especially if the lump was close to the skin or larger than expected.

Removing one fibroadenoma does not prevent a separate fibroadenoma from forming elsewhere. It also does not mean every future lump is related to the first one. A new lump deserves its own assessment rather than being assumed to be recurrence.

Follow the written instructions about dressing care, bathing, activity and pain relief. Keep the follow-up visit so the wound and tissue result can be reviewed. Avoid repeatedly pressing the area while it is sore; note changes instead. If another lump is found later, Breast Ultrasound or Breast Biopsy may help assess it. Breast Lump Excision explains the procedure itself.

Contact the surgical team for increasing redness, warmth, drainage, wound separation, worsening swelling or pain that is not settling. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, fainting, or fever with a rapidly worsening wound. After healing, arrange assessment for a new lump, skin change, nipple inversion or unusual discharge.

Ask when the tissue result will be available, how to care for the incision, when normal activity can resume, and which post-operative changes require a call.