Do breast cysts require surgery?

Breast cysts do not necessarily require surgery and in most cases can be resolved through regular observation and conservative treatment. However, if the cyst is large, the symptoms are obvious, or there is a risk of malignancy, surgical intervention may be required.

1 Characteristics and routine treatment of breast cysts

Breast cysts are common benign breast diseases in women, usually manifested as soft or elastic lumps in the breast, which may be accompanied by pain or discomfort during menstruation. The vast majority of breast cysts are benign, especially simple cysts without special uneven components, and their malignant transformation rate is extremely low. Small cysts without obvious symptoms usually only require regular follow-up, and the size and morphological changes of the cysts can be monitored by ultrasound or mammography. Doctors may recommend appropriate reduction of breast burden in daily life, such as wearing loose underwear, avoiding caffeine intake, etc., to help relieve symptoms.

2 Situations that may require surgery

Surgical intervention may be considered in the following situations:

Large cysts: usually larger than 2-3 cm in diameter, may cause significant pain, mass pressure or change in appearance, and require surgical removal to improve symptoms.

Recurrent complex cysts: If the cyst recurs easily after aspiration of fluid, or if the cytology examination shows abnormalities, further diagnosis and treatment through surgery is required.

High risk of malignant transformation: If the cyst is accompanied by complex pathological manifestations such as thick cyst walls or uneven nodules or a family history of breast cancer, surgery can confirm the nature of the lesion and reduce potential risks.

3 Common surgical methods for breast cysts

Different types of breast cysts may require different surgical options:

Puncture drainage: It is suitable for simple, fluid-filled cysts and is usually combined with fluid cytology to determine the nature.

Cystectomy: Complete removal of the cyst. Suitable for larger, recurrent or complex cysts.

Lumpectomy: If precancerous lesions or malignant tumors are suspected, the doctor may recommend a more extensive resection and send the sample for pathological analysis.

Regular follow-up visits are required after surgery, and breast condition should be monitored through imaging follow-up. At the same time, lifestyle adjustments should be made and attention should be paid to breast health.

Whether a breast cyst requires surgery depends on the specific situation and should be determined under the guidance of a doctor based on the nature of the cyst, symptoms, and the patient's wishes. For general benign cysts, regular monitoring and conservative treatment are safe and reliable, but once the cyst shows abnormal changes or persistent discomfort, you should seek medical attention in a timely manner for further evaluation and treatment.