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May 23, 2013
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Breast Lumps and Pain (cont.)

Medical Author:
M Ruby Alvi, MD, CCFP, MHSc
Medical Reviewer:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Surgery

  • In general, surgery is not necessary to treat breast pain unless a mass is found. Surgery is performed to remove a lump.
  • If an abscess is present, it must be drained. After injection of local anesthetic, the doctor may drain an abscess near the surface of the skin either by aspiration with a needle and syringe or by using a small incision. This can be done in the doctor's office or Emergency Department.
  • If the abscess is deep in the breast, however, it may require surgical drainage in the operating room. This is usually done under general anesthesia in order to minimize pain and completely drain the abscess. If your infection worsens in spite of oral antibiotics or if you have a deep abscess requiring surgical treatment, you may be admitted to the hospital for IV antibiotics.

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See the Entire Breast Lumps and Pain Topic Guide »
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Breast Lumps In Women - Diagnosis

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe the diagnosis of the breast lumps in your breast(s).

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Breast Lumps In Women - Cause

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What was the underlying cause of your breast lumps?

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Breast Abscesses and Masses »

Breast masses can be broadly classified as benign or malignant.

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