Benign Breast Disease
Expert assessment and management of non-cancerous breast conditions.
About benign breast conditions
Not all breast conditions are cancerous. The majority of breast symptoms — including lumps, pain and nipple changes — have a benign (non-cancerous) cause. However, all new breast changes warrant proper assessment to reach an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate management.
Mr Sarakbi has extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of benign breast disease alongside his cancer and cosmetic work. The One Stop Clinic provides rapid assessment for all breast symptoms, including benign conditions.
Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenomas are the most common benign breast lumps, typically affecting women in their 20s and 30s. They are smooth, firm, mobile lumps made up of glandular and connective tissue. Most can be safely monitored without surgery, though removal is recommended if the lump is large, growing or causing symptoms.
Breast Cysts
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the breast, most common in women approaching the menopause. They are usually round or oval on ultrasound and can be drained by aspiration if painful. Simple cysts that are not causing symptoms can be left alone.
Mastalgia (Breast Pain)
Breast pain is very common and is rarely a sign of cancer. It may be cyclical (related to the menstrual cycle) or non-cyclical. Most mastalgia can be managed with lifestyle measures, appropriate support and, in some cases, medication. Mr Sarakbi will assess your pain and advise on the most appropriate management.
Nipple Discharge
Nipple discharge can have a variety of causes, most of which are benign — including duct ectasia (widening of the milk ducts) and intraductal papilloma. Blood-stained discharge, or discharge from a single duct, requires further investigation. Mr Sarakbi will assess and, where necessary, perform a microdochectomy (surgical removal of the affected duct).
Fibrocystic Change
Fibrocystic change is a common condition in which breast tissue becomes lumpier and more tender, particularly in the days before a period. It is a normal variation rather than a disease and does not require treatment beyond symptom management.
Concerned about a breast symptom? Book a prompt assessment.
Book an AppointmentMost benign conditions do not significantly increase cancer risk. Some proliferative lesions (such as atypical ductal hyperplasia) carry a modestly elevated risk and require careful follow-up. Mr Sarakbi will advise on your individual situation.
Most fibroadenomas can be safely monitored without surgery. Removal is recommended if the lump is large, growing rapidly, causing symptoms or if there is diagnostic uncertainty.
Breast pain is very common and rarely indicates cancer. However, persistent, localised or new breast pain — particularly combined with other symptoms — warrants assessment to confirm the cause and explore management options.
Book an assessment
Prompt appointments available at Cadogan Clinic, Chelsea and Shirley Oaks Hospital, Surrey.