Medical History: Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms, any changes you've noticed in the lump, and any relevant medical history, including family history of breast conditions or cancer.
Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination, which includes palpating and inspecting the lump in the axillary region. They will assess the size, shape, consistency, tenderness, and mobility of the lump. The examination may also involve checking the nearby lymph nodes.
Imaging Tests: Depending on the characteristics of the lump and the clinical suspicion, imaging tests may be ordered. Mammograms, breast ultrasound, or breast MRI can provide detailed images of the lump and surrounding tissues, helping to assess its nature and characteristics.
Biopsy: If the lump appears suspicious or if the imaging tests do not provide a clear diagnosis, a biopsy may be performed. There are different types of biopsies, including fine-needle aspiration biopsy, core needle biopsy, or surgical biopsy. A biopsy involves taking a sample of the tissue from the lump for further examination under a microscope.
Pathology Evaluation: The tissue sample obtained from the biopsy is sent to a pathology laboratory, where a pathologist examines it. They analyze the sample to determine the nature of the lump, whether it is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and if cancer is present, the specific type and characteristics.
Procedure
There are different procedures available for addressing axillary breast tissue, depending on the specific concerns and goals of the individual. Here are some common procedures used to address axillary breast tissue:
Axillary Liposuction: Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that removes excess fat from the axillary region. It involves making small incisions and using a suction device to extract the fat cells. Liposuction can be effective in reducing the volume of fatty tissue in the axilla and improving contour.
Excision of Axillary Breast Tissue: In cases where there is excess breast tissue in the axilla, surgical excision may be performed. This involves making an incision in the axillary region and removing the excess breast tissue. The procedure aims to reduce the size or eliminate the presence of axillary breast tissue.
Breast Reduction or Mastopexy (Breast Lift): In some cases, when the axillary breast tissue is part of a larger breast-related concern, a breast reduction or mastopexy procedure may be recommended. These procedures involve removing excess breast tissue, reshaping the breasts, and repositioning the nipple-areola complex to achieve a more proportionate and lifted appearance.