General
Information
DEFINITION--Removal of fluid or tissue from one of the female breasts.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Breast.
REASONS FOR SURGERY--Diagnosis of a thickening or lump.
SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH
- Smoking.
- Recent or chronic illness.
What To Expect
WHO OPERATES--Family doctor or general surgeon.
WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital, doctor's office or outpatient surgical facility.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
- Before surgery: Medical history and physical examination; blood and urine studies;
x-rays of chest; mammogram (See Glossary).
- After surgery: Laboratory examination of removed fluid or tissue.
ANESTHESIA--Local anesthesia by injection or no anesthetic may be necessary.
DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION--A small hollow needle is inserted into the thickening
or lump. If the thickening or lump is a cyst, fluid usually can be removed and the cyst
will shrink or disappear. The removed fluid is sent to the laboratory to be examined for
abnormal cells. If a solid tumor is detected, tissue is removed through the needle for
laboratory examination.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
- Infection in surgical area (rare).
- Collection of blood (hematoma) under the skin where needle was inserted.
AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.
PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 1
week for recovery from surgery.
Postoperative Care
GENERAL MEASURES
- Use an electric heating pad, a heat lamp or a warm compress to relieve pain in the
surgical area.
- Bathe and shower as usual. You may wash the area of needle insertion gently with mild
unscented soap.
- Wear a supportive bra. Apply bandages to the surgical wound and change them as directed
by your doctor.
> You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.
> To help recovery and aid your well--
being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 3 days after
returning from the hospital.
DIET---No special diet.
Call Your Doctor If
> Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
- You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill
feeling and fever.
