Breast Services

Breast cysts

These localised collections of fluid in the breast are very common. Milk ducts in the breast are very active and when a duct becomes blocked, fluid is trapped causing a cyst to form. They can occur at any age, but are most common in the 30-50 year old age bracket.

They are often tender and are diagnosed by imaging (mammogram or ultrasound). If they cause no symptoms and have benign features on imaging, then they require no treatment. If they require aspiration (drainage), it can be done under ultrasound guidance either in the x-ray department or in the consulting rooms by putting a needle into the cyst.

Fibro adenoma

This is a benign condition where there is an overgrowth of normal breast tissue. Fibro adenomas have an unknown cause and are more common in women ages 21-25. They can be influenced by hormonal changes. The treatment of this condition depends on signs and symptoms, the age of the patient and biopsy results. All these factors will be discussed by your breast specialist.

Mastalgia (breast pain)

This affects up to 70% of women at some stage of their lives. Breast pain is not usually associated with breast cancer, but if it is persistent and doesn't respond to simple pain medications it is recommended that you discuss this with your GP. Your GP will arrange investigations if they deem it necessary and on-going referral to a breast specialist if appropriate.

We focus on bringing together a group of women of similar age and life experiences. We share our stories and support each other through what can be an emotional and stressful life experience.

There is no formal agenda. The group meets in a relaxed, informal atmosphere at a local pub so you can enjoy a light meal or a drink.

• View the Breast Friends flyer.

Support group meeting dates

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month from 7:30pm.

An email reminder is sent each month, which includes any news items of interest and any change of venue.

Contact

Breast Care nurse at Epworth Freemasons

Phone: 03 9483 3711

It is important for women to become familiar with the normal look, feel and shape of their breasts so they will notice any abnormal changes.

Steps to being breast aware:

• Familiarise yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts
• If you notice any unusual breast changes - arrange for an appointment with your GP
• Those aged 50 to 69 can have a mammogram at Breast Screen Victoria every two years

Women of all ages should be familiar with their breasts, but be aware as you get older the risk of breast cancer increases.

Breast cysts

These localised collections of fluid in the breast are very common. Milk ducts in the breast are very active and when a duct becomes blocked, fluid is trapped causing a cyst to form. They can occur at any age, but are most common in the 30-50 year old age bracket.

They are often tender and are diagnosed by imaging (mammogram or ultrasound). If they cause no symptoms and have benign features on imaging, then they require no treatment. If they require aspiration (drainage), it can be done under ultrasound guidance either in the x-ray department or in the consulting rooms by putting a needle into the cyst.

Fibro adenoma

This is a benign condition where there is an overgrowth of normal breast tissue. Fibro adenomas have an unknown cause and are more common in women ages 21-25. They can be influenced by hormonal changes. The treatment of this condition depends on signs and symptoms, the age of the patient and biopsy results. All these factors will be discussed by your breast specialist.

Mastalgia (breast pain)

This affects up to 70% of women at some stage of their lives. Breast pain is not usually associated with breast cancer, but if it is persistent and doesn't respond to simple pain medications it is recommended that you discuss this with your GP. Your GP will arrange investigations if they deem it necessary and on-going referral to a breast specialist if appropriate.

A family history of breast cancer is defined as one or more close relatives having had breast cancer at some stage of their lives. You may be at higher risk than the population. However, this will only be the case for a small percentage of women.

Our doctors are specialists within this field and work closely with the familial cancer centres to deliver the gold standard of treatment. If you are concerned or have questions about breast cancer in your family, please do not hesitate to contact our breast care nurse coordinator.

Triple Test

When investigating breast change, a triple test is mostly used to find the cause. This includes:

• A clinical breast examination
• Imaging such as, mammography and ultrasound

A non-surgical biopsy

This includes:

• FNA - Fine needle aspiration: removal of a collection of cells from the breast with a tiny needle (much like a blood sampling needle) which are examined by a pathologist under a microscope
• Core biopsy: local anaesthetic is used and a specialised biopsy needle to remove tiny pieces of tissue from the breast for examination by a pathologist
• Vacuum assisted stereotactic core biopsy: specialised core biopsy which removes lots of small pieces of tissue from the breast with the assistance of a mammography machine

Post Biopsy Care

• You will experience some discomfort in your breast after the local anaesthetic wears off. This will settle over the next day or so. If you need to, take a simple pain killer such as Paracetamol
• You may go back to work after your biopsy, but we advise you not to do any strenuous exercise (such as aerobics or heavy lifting) for 24 hours
• Some bruising at a biopsy site is to be expected and will clear over the next week or so. The dressing may be removed after about 48 hours
• If you notice excessive swelling, pain or bleeding please call our breast care nurse on 0400 657 968