Fibroadenomas

Fibroadenomas are solid, noncancerous breast lumps that show up most often in women in their 20s and 30s. Sarah Waterman, MD, at Green Mountain Breast Care Center in Stowe, Vermont, confirms the diagnosis through imaging and biopsy, then helps you decide whether to remove the lump or leave it alone. Call the Stowe office or request an appointment online to have your lump evaluated.

What is a fibroadenoma?

A fibroadenoma is a noncancerous growth that forms when glandular tissue and supportive fibrous tissue develop together into a distinct mass. It feels firm, smooth, and rubbery, and it slides easily under your fingers when you press on it, which is why some people describe it as a marble moving around inside the breast.

Fibroadenomas most commonly appear between ages 15 and 35, though they can develop at any point before menopause. Most measure between one and two centimeters. A small number grow larger than five centimeters and are classified as giant fibroadenomas.

What causes fibroadenomas?

Researchers have not pinpointed a single cause, though there does seem to be a hormonal connection. Fibroadenomas often enlarge during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and they tend to shrink after menopause when estrogen levels fall. Oral contraceptives started before age 20 can also influence their development.

Having a fibroadenoma doesn’t meaningfully raise your risk of breast cancer for most women. Complex fibroadenomas, which contain additional tissue changes, can carry a slightly higher risk, and Dr. Waterman will discuss next steps if your pathology comes back that way.

How do I know if I have a fibroadenoma?

You may notice a lump on your own or learn about one after routine imaging. Common characteristics include:

• A firm lump with clearly defined edges
• Free movement when you press on it
• A smooth, rounded surface
• No pain in most cases
• Size changes tied to your menstrual cycle

Dr. Waterman confirms the diagnosis with an ultrasound, a mammogram when your age calls for one, and usually a core needle biopsy to examine the tissue.

Do fibroadenomas need to be removed?

Not always. Many fibroadenomas stay the same size for years or shrink on their own, and Dr. Waterman may recommend monitoring with periodic imaging instead of surgery.

Removal makes sense when the lump grows, causes pain, distorts the shape of your breast, or shows features on biopsy that warrant a closer look. Dr. Waterman performs a lumpectomy through a small incision, typically as an outpatient procedure. Some patients simply want the lump gone, and that reason counts too.

Call Green Mountain Breast Care Center today or request an appointment online.