What Are Breast Cysts?

 

Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form within the breast tissue. They are one of the most common benign (non-cancerous) breast conditions and are especially common in women between 35 and 55 years of age.

Cysts can occur in one or both breasts, often as part of normal hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. They may appear as smooth, soft, or firm lumps that can sometimes fluctuate in size or tenderness.

Breast cysts are not cancerous and do not increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

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Causes and Risk Factors

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Breast cysts develop when normal breast glands enlarge and fill with fluid.

They are often linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly oestrogen levels, which influence breast tissue growth and fluid balance.

 

Common contributing factors include:

 

• Hormonal changes related to the menstrual cycle

• Perimenopause, when hormones begin to fluctuate

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

• Family history of benign breast disease

 

 

Cysts can range from microscopic (too small to feel) to several centimetres, occasionally causing discomfort if large or close to the surface.

 

 

 

Symptoms and When to Seek Advice

 

 

Breast cysts can present with:

 

• A smooth, round, or oval lump that feels soft or firm

• Tenderness or pain that may fluctuate with the menstrual cycle

• Changes in breast size or shape over time

 

Although most cysts are harmless, seek medical review if you notice:

 

• A new or enlarging lump

• Pain or swelling that persists

• Changes in the nipple or skin

• Any bloody or spontaneous discharge

 

Prompt evaluation helps distinguish benign cysts from other conditions.

 

Diagnosis and Assessment

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At Breast & Wellness, breast cysts are assessed using a triple assessment approach:

 

1. Clinical examination by a breast specialist

2. Breast imaging – ultrasound (the most accurate test for cysts) and/or mammogram if appropriate

3. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) – Sometimes used to confirm diagnosis and relieve discomfort by draining the fluid if necessary

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Ultrasound typically shows a cyst as a smooth, well-defined, fluid-filled structure.

If the fluid removed during aspiration is clear and the cyst collapses completely, no further testing is usually required.

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Treatment Options

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Most breast cysts do not require treatment once confirmed by imaging.

Management options include:

 

• Observation: Small, painless cysts can simply be monitored with routine checks.

• Aspiration: A quick and simple procedure where fluid is removed using a fine needle under ultrasound guidance. This relieves discomfort and confirms the diagnosis.

• Surgery: Rarely required — only if a cyst persists, recurs frequently, or has unusual features.

 

After aspiration, cysts may occasionally refill, but this is not dangerous and can be easily managed.

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Prognosis and Follow-Up

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Breast cysts are benign and self-limiting. Many resolve on their own or remain stable over time.

Regular self-examination and age-appropriate breast screening are important for overall breast health.

If symptoms change or new lumps develop, re-evaluation is recommended for reassurance and ongoing care.

 

Key Points

 

 

• Common and benign breast condition, especially in women aged 35–55

• Caused by fluid accumulation within breast glands

• Painless or tender lumps that may fluctuate with hormones

• Confirmed by ultrasound and, if necessary, aspiration

• Treatment rarely needed unless cysts are large or bothersome

 

 

 

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