Breast Mass Specialist
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Capital Women's Care Division 67
OBGYNs located in Ballston, Arlington, VA
Breast exams should be part of your regular routine. Knowing what your breast feels like normally can help you identify abnormalities quickly. If you discovered a breast mass, Capital Women’s Care in the Ballston area of Arlington, Virginia, offers a number of advanced screening tools, including 3D mammography and breast ultrasounds, to help you get a treatment plan in place right away. If you’re concerned about a breast lump, call the office right away, or book an appointment online today.
Breast Mass Q & A
How is a breast mass detected?
Regular self-breast exams are the best way to detect a breast mass. You should conduct the exams about three days after the last day of your period to minimize breast discomfort.
The exam should include both looking and feeling. Facing a mirror, look for any changes in the shape or color of your breast. Do your visual examination while your hands on your hips and then raised over your head.
With your pointer, middle, and ring finger together, feel your breasts for lumps. Go in a circular, vertical, or criss-cross motion, being sure to cover the entire breast.
Breasts should be examined standing up and lying down. If you detect a lump that wasn’t there at your last check, call Capital Women’s Care.
What could a breast mass be?
Cancer may be the first thing that pops into your head when you detect a mass, but a breast mass may also simply be a cyst, or fluid-filled sac.
A consultation with one of the medical professionals at Capital Women’s Care may put your mind at ease.
What tests are available to screen for breast cancer?
Capital Women’s Care offers a couple of screening options to look at the lump, including the 3D mammogram and ultrasound.
The 3D mammogram uses a set of X-rays to create a 3D image of your breast. When it comes to breast cancer detection, the 3D mammogram may be more effective at preventing a false positive than traditional mammograms, which create a 2D image.
Ultrasound technology may be able to differentiate between a fluid-filled mass and a solid mass, also helping to reduce false positive results. The noninvasive procedure is safe and painless.
Will I need a biopsy?
If your lump is solid, the team at Capital Women’s Care may recommend a biopsy to determine if the lump is benign or malignant.
During a biopsy, cells are extracted from your lump and examined under a microscope. The biopsy may be done with a needle or as a surgical procedure. Biopsies aren’t performed at the Capital Women’s Care office.
If the lump is benign, the team at Capital Women’s Care may recommend close monitoring of the lump for changes. If the biopsy indicates cancerous cells, the team takes steps to help you get set up with the right treatment.
