Breast Cyst Aspiration

What is Breast Cyst Aspiration?

Breast cyst aspiration is a procedure performed to drain a fluid-filled pouch that has formed in breast tissue. The purpose of aspiration is to relieve symptoms, and to provide, if necessary, fluid for laboratory examination. Breast cysts are usually discovered by mammogram or ultrasound. Such cysts are common and may cause discomfort, but are usually benign. Because a small percentage of breast cysts are malignant, however, they must be checked carefully to see whether further treatment is required.

Cysts containing a watery fluid that disappears immediately after aspiration are usually noncancerous, requiring no further testing. If the cyst refills, if the fluid is bloody, or if there is solid tissue aspirated rather than fluid, a sample is sent to a lab for testing. The pathology results from cyst aspiration are rapidly available. Regardless of the results, a patient usually returns to her doctor for a follow-up visit about a month after the procedure.

Breast cyst aspiration is a safe procedure, with few associated risks. These include discomfort at the site, bruising and the possibility of infection where the needle was inserted.

Our Surgeons Specializing in Breast Cyst Aspiration