A lump under the bust at the bra line: what you need to know

You probably have a lump in the line of your bra for the same reasons you might have one anywhere else on your chest. There are many causes of breast lumps and most are not due to cancer. Lumps can be caused by things like:

• fluid under the skin
• infection
• extra fat cells
• non-cancerous tumors
• Cancer

Sometimes an injury can lead to a lump. The breast, like any other part of the body, responds to trauma. For example, recent surgery or another injury to the chest can cause a hematoma. A hematoma is a pool of blood just under the skin, which can create a lump.

You will probably be able to identify these lumps by appearance and circumstances. But other types of breast lumps can develop at the bra line.

Many types of breast lumps that form on or around the breasts can also occur at the bra line.

Most breast lumps are not cancerous, and many are not harmful. Here are some types of lumps that might develop at the bra line.

Abscess

A breast abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to infection. If you have an abscess, you will likely have other symptoms, such as:

• inflammation
• fever
• warm skin
• tired
• pain

It is possible to develop an abscess as a result of an injury to the chest. You will need treatment to drain the abscess and clear the infection.

Cyst

A breast cyst is a bag filled with liquid. Research shows that cysts are the most common causes of breast lumps, or lumps, and other breast symptoms.

A cyst may be accompanied by tenderness and may change with your menstrual cycle. They tend to be soft and smooth. But when they form deep in the breast tissue, they can feel hard.

They don’t always require treatment, but a doctor can drain or remove them if they cause discomfort.

Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenomas are a type of non-cancerous tumor. They are painless and feel rubbery, smooth and mobile. The cause of these tumors is unclear. Fibroadenomas that cause pain can be removed surgically.

Lipoma

A lipoma is an overgrowth of fat cells just under the skin. They can grow anywhere, including on the chest. They tend to be soft and mobile. Lipomas are usually painless and tend to grow slowly. They don’t need to be treated, but they can be removed surgically.

Breast cancer

A 2017 study have found that breast cancerous tumors are more likely to occur in the upper and outer quadrant breast. But breast cancer can develop anywhere on the breasts, including the bra line.

Cancerous masses are likely to to feel hard and still. A 2017 study have shown that breast lumps are the most common presenting symptom of breast cancer, which means they’re often the first sign when something is wrong. On the other hand, a Study 2019 found that 75% of breast biopsies give a benign result, which means that most are not cancerous.

Breast cancer is easier to treat when diagnosed at an early stage. According to National Cancer Institute, the 5-year relative survival rate for localized female breast cancer is 99 percent.

Costochondritis and Tietze syndrome

Costochondritis and Tietze syndrome are similar conditions that involve inflammation of the costochondral joint. The costochondral joint is the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone or breastbone. Both conditions can cause noticeable swelling and pain, especially when you move or apply pressure.

The causes include:

• chest tension due to a severe cough
• chest tension due to physical activity
• chest injury
• infection

Both conditions can be treated with rest and medication to manage the pain.

While a lump near the bra line can be harmless, it’s always a good idea to have new bumps examined by a doctor. Some breast lumps, even if they are mild, may require treatment. Contact a doctor as soon as possible if:

• the bump is painful
• the lump or area around it is red or hot
• you also have a fever
• you have other symptoms such as puckering skin, nipple discharge, or an inverted nipple
• the bump is hard and still when you push with your fingers
• the mass changes or grows
• your chest hurts

Finding a breast lump can be concerning. Breathe deeply and try to relax. Remember that breasts are naturally lumpy and most breast lumps are not cancerous.

Here’s what to do next:

• Examine your bra. Check to see if your bra is putting too much pressure under your breasts. If you wear underwired bras, try switching to a different type. If a bra causes irritation, you may choose not to wear a bra until you feel better.
• Call a doctor. If you have a primary care physician or an OB-GYN, contact us to make an appointment. Explain that you have discovered a breast lump and be sure to mention any other symptoms.
• Find a doctor. If you don’t have a doctor, ask someone you trust for a referral. You can also find directories of doctors at local clinics, hospitals or the health department. If you have health insurance, you can find providers from your insurer. Or, you can visit health care.gov to find a community health center in your area. Then contact us to make an appointment.
• Mark your calendar. Monthly breast self-examination can help you familiarize yourself with how your breasts usually feel. This might make it easier to notice the changes in the future.
• To take notes. Write down when you found the lump, what other symptoms you have, and if you notice any changes before your exam. List your medical history and any medications you are taking. It is also helpful to write down questions so that you are prepared to ask them when you see a doctor.

Breast lumps can occur anywhere on either breast. It does not matter whether a lump is on or under the left breast compared to the right breast.

In some cases, a doctor can give you a diagnosis just by looking at the lump. This may be true in the case of a lipoma, for example.

In many cases, additional tests are needed to make the diagnosis. Depending on your symptoms and physical exam, these may include:

If your doctor is a general practitioner, he can refer you to a specialist.

A lump under your breast at the bra line may simply be due to an ill-fitting bra. But bumps on the chest can develop for many reasons. Most breast cancer lumps are found higher on the breast, but they can also occur at the bra line.

If you have a new breast size, it is a good idea to have it examined by a doctor.