If the lump can't be felt, a needle biopsy can be done in the radiology department, using a mammogram or ultrasound to show the doctor where to put the needle. This is done using local anesthesia. Sometimes it is necessary to take out the entire lump. This is done as outpatient surgery. The most common breast lumps are fibroadenomas and cysts.
Fibroadenomas are smooth and round.
They are most often found in younger women. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that often gets bigger and then smaller during the menstrual cycle. Perform monthly breast self-exams. Have a physical breast exam by a doctor every three years for women 20 to 39 years of age, then every year after age 40. Get an annual mammogram starting at 40 to 50 years of age.