Finding a lump, noticing a change in your nipple or realising that one breast looks different can leave you with a lot of questions. You may be wondering whether it is serious, who to speak to and what an appointment will involve.
Most breast lumps are not cancer, but a new lump or unusual change should still be checked. You do not need to work out the cause yourself before asking for help.
Here is what the next steps may look like.
What changes should I get checked?
Arrange an appointment if you notice:
- A new lump or swelling in your breast, chest or armpit.
- A change in the size or shape of a breast.
- Skin dimpling, puckering or a new change in colour.
- A nipple that has newly turned inwards, or a persistent nipple rash.
- Unexpected nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood.
A change does not have to hurt to need assessment. Breast pain on its own is not usually a sign of cancer, but persistent or worrying pain is also worth discussing.
If you notice a change, do not wait for your next routine breast screening appointment. Screening and investigating a symptom are different: a new concern needs its own assessment. º
Should I see a GP or book a breast clinic appointment?
A GP can examine your breasts and refer you for specialist assessment if needed. If you would prefer to discuss your concern with one of our GPs first, you can explore our private GP appointments.
You can also book directly with our Breast Clinic in Birmingham without a GP referral. Our consultant-led service assesses breast symptoms in women and men.
Being referred to a breast clinic does not mean you have cancer. It means your symptoms need a closer look.
Breast Health: Your Questions Answered by a Consultant Breast Surgeon
Mr Jamie Vatish, Consultant Breast Surgeon at Midland Health, answers common questions about breast lumps, implants and breast surgery, helping you feel more informed about your breast health.
What happens at the specialist consultation?
Your specialist will ask what you have noticed, when it started and whether it has changed. They will also discuss your medical history, medicines, previous breast investigations and relevant family history.
You will usually have a breast examination. You can ask for a chaperone and tell the team if you feel anxious or uncomfortable. The examination should be explained to you, with time to ask questions.
It may help to bring a medication list, any previous reports and a few questions written down.
Will I need an ultrasound or mammogram?
Your specialist will recommend tests according to your symptoms, age and examination findings.
An ultrasound uses sound waves to look at breast tissue. A mammogram uses X-rays. You may need one or both; not everyone needs the same investigations.
At Midland Health, assessment may include breast ultrasound, with mammograms arranged through trusted partner hospitals where appropriate. Investigations are completed on the same day wherever possible, but some tests may require another appointment.
What if a biopsy is recommended?
A biopsy takes a small sample from an area that needs further investigation, so it can be examined in a laboratory. For a core needle biopsy, local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. Your specialist will explain the procedure and aftercare.
A recommendation for a biopsy is not a diagnosis of cancer. It is a way of finding out more about the change.
You may hear the term triple assessment. This refers to a clinical examination, breast imaging and a biopsy. Not everyone needs all three.
When will I get answers?
Some findings can be discussed during your appointment. At Midland Health, ultrasound results are usually explained during the visit. Biopsy results take longer because the sample needs laboratory analysis.
Before you leave, ask when to expect any outstanding results, how you will receive them and who to contact with questions.
The next step depends on the findings. You may need reassurance, monitoring, treatment for a non-cancerous condition or further investigation. If cancer is diagnosed, your consultant will explain the findings and guide you towards onward treatment and support.
If your main concern is your family history, our breast cancer risk assessment service offers a separate pathway for discussing inherited risk. This does not replace assessment of a new symptom.
Taking the next step
You do not have to decide how serious a change is before seeking advice.
Our Birmingham Breast Clinic includes Consultant Breast Surgeon Mr Jamie Vatish. You can find appointment information and current prices on the service page, or contact our team if you are unsure which appointment to book.
