Breast cysts are fluid-filled lumps that commonly occur in women, especially between the ages of 30 and 50. They are benign (non-cancerous) and often linked to hormonal changes that affect breast tissue. While most breast cysts are harmless and resolve naturally, some can cause pain, tenderness, or concern when they enlarge or persist.
At Cyst Removal Clinic London, our doctors provide accurate assessment and, when necessary, safe removal of breast cysts using minimally invasive techniques. This page explains what breast cysts are, how they’re diagnosed, and when removal is recommended.
What is a Breast Cyst?
A breast cyst is a round or oval lump filled with fluid that develops within the breast tissue. These cysts form when the glands that produce milk or other secretions become blocked, allowing fluid to build up and create a sac-like structure.
Breast cysts can vary in size from a few millimetres to several centimetres and may appear in one or both breasts. Some women experience a single cyst, while others may develop multiple cysts over time.
They are typically:
- Smooth and easily movable under the skin
- Tender or sensitive before menstruation
- More noticeable during hormonal changes, such as perimenopause
Breast cysts are not linked to breast cancer. However, because lumps in the breast can have different causes, it’s important to have any new or changing lump assessed by a doctor.
Common Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms of a breast cyst may include:
- A smooth, round, or oval lump that moves easily when pressed
- Localised tenderness or pain, particularly before a period
- Fluctuation in size or firmness with the menstrual cycle
- Clear, yellow, or green nipple discharge (in some cases)
Cysts develop when fluid builds up inside blocked lobules — the glands responsible for milk production. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly changes in oestrogen levels, are thought to play a key role. For this reason, cysts are more common in women approaching menopause, when hormone levels vary more widely.
Breast cysts are rarely seen after menopause unless the woman is taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Diagnosis and When to Seek Treatment
If you find a lump in your breast, it’s important to have it examined by a medical professional, even if it feels soft or movable. Most breast cysts are benign, but the only way to be certain is through clinical assessment.
At Cyst Removal Clinic London, your doctor will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination. In some cases, further imaging or diagnostic tests may be recommended, such as:
- Ultrasound scan: Helps confirm whether the lump is solid or fluid-filled.
- Mammogram: May be used for women over 40 or those with multiple cysts.
- Fine needle aspiration: A small amount of fluid is drawn out for analysis or relief.
You should seek professional evaluation if:
- The lump increases in size or becomes painful
- There is blood-stained nipple discharge
- The lump feels hard, fixed, or irregular
- You notice new lumps after previous cyst removal
- You are concerned about your risk of breast cancer
While most cysts are harmless, persistent or recurrent cysts may require drainage or surgical removal, especially if they cause ongoing discomfort or anxiety.
Breast Cyst Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the cyst’s size, symptoms, and whether it’s causing pain or worry. Most small or symptom-free cysts don’t require any intervention. However, options include:
1. Observation (monitoring)
Many cysts resolve naturally over time. If the lump is small and painless, your doctor may recommend watchful waiting with routine breast checks or follow-up imaging.
2. Aspiration (fluid drainage)
If the cyst is painful or large, a simple procedure can be performed to draw out the fluid using a fine needle. This immediately relieves pressure and discomfort. The procedure is quick, done under local anaesthetic or none at all, and typically leaves no scar. However, cysts can sometimes refill.
3. Surgical removal (excision)
If the cyst recurs, becomes infected, or causes persistent discomfort, surgical removal may be advised. The goal is to remove the cyst wall completely to prevent recurrence. This is done under local anaesthetic at our clinic and usually takes around 30 minutes.
Your doctor will discuss the most suitable option based on your symptoms and medical history.
Breast Cyst Removal Procedure
When required, breast cyst removal is a minor surgical procedure carried out in a sterile outpatient environment. It is performed under local anaesthetic, allowing you to return home shortly after treatment.
The procedure involves:
- Preparation – The area is cleaned and marked precisely to ensure the best cosmetic result.
- Anaesthetic – Local anaesthetic is injected to numb the area fully.
- Incision and removal – A small incision is made over the cyst, and the entire sac, including its lining, is carefully removed.
- Closure – The wound is closed using fine dissolvable or removable stitches and covered with a light dressing.
The procedure is quick, safe, and designed to leave minimal scarring. For cysts located near the surface of the skin, incision lines are placed discreetly to maintain natural contour and appearance.
The removed tissue may be sent to a pathology lab for confirmation that it is benign, which is standard practice for breast lumps.Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from breast cyst removal is typically straightforward. Mild bruising or tenderness may occur for a few days, but most patients return to normal activities the following day.
Aftercare advice includes:
- Keep the dressing dry for the first 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for a few days
- Use simple pain relief such as paracetamol if needed
- Attend a follow-up visit to check healing and remove stitches if required
If the cyst was drained rather than removed, the area may feel slightly tender but should settle quickly. In cases where cysts recur, your doctor will discuss ongoing management and any need for follow-up imaging.
Once healed, the incision usually leaves a faint line that fades over time.
Why Choose Cyst Removal Clinic London
- Experienced doctors specialising in minor breast and skin procedures
- Local anaesthetic only – no hospital stay required
- Discreet, cosmetic-focused approach for minimal scarring
- Same-day assessment and treatment available
- Transparent fixed pricing with aftercare included
Our clinic provides a calm, professional environment where patients receive clear advice and personalised treatment from experienced practitioners.