Male breast lump - GP or not GP, that is the question.

I’ve found a largish lump behind my left nipple. It’s fairly hard, not round or smooth. Seems to be attached to the tissue behind my nipple area. Approx 2cm. 
I’ve shown my wife as she has more experience with boobs lol! She didn’t seem too concerned, thought maybe a cyst but worth getting a GP to have a look. 
sooooo… I looked it up on Google. Big mistake? Yes. Now I don’t know what to think and I’m a bit embarrassed to get it checked in case he turns round and says it’s just moobs. I’m not overweight at all (quite skinny) but very conscious of how I look. 

  • You know, after posting this and reading it over I think I’m being a bit stupid. I’ll put my big boy pants on and go see the GP. 

  • Sorry, should have said I’m 44 year old!

    been to the docs this morning. A definite lump with slight skin change.  Probably not gynocomastia so that’s good. I’ve been referred to the breast clinic in Edinburgh for further evaluation. The doc was really thorough and knowledgeable and even got another doc in to double check everything. Fingers crossed it’s benign and all will be well. 

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Derek123

    So glad that you went to the docs Derek, better to be safe than sorry even if there is a bit of embarrassment!

    Wishing you all the best and that there's nothing too bad to be concerned about 

  • Thanks Kittyslim. It wasn’t as embarrassing as I thought it would be - even though he did a complete physical examination (including the nether region!). I’m quite relieved now and can move forward to the next step. I think I’ll use this thread as a diary so other guys with similar concerns can see that it’s fine to get checked. 

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Derek123

    Thats a brilliant idea actually Derek. I'm at the beginning of a possible kidney cancer journey and I've found it reassuring to read other people's stories along the way. 

    Dome horrors too but one has to be aware of what might be.

    I'm so glad it wasn't as awful as you thought it was going to be, even with the extra checks. So glad you have a decent gp. I wish my husbands was as thorough 

    All the best x

  • Hi Derek,

    A very warm welcome to our forum. 

    I am so glad to hear that you have made the move to see your GP. Many men have breast problems, so it's nothing to feel embarrassed about. You should get your appointment through for the breast clinic within 2 weeks from the date of referral. I sincerely hope that nothing untoward is found and that there is a simpler explanation. Pleaser keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine

  • Sorry to hear of your worries Kittyslim. My fingers are crossed for a good speedy outcome. keep in touch. 

  • Thanks for the welcome Jolamine.
     ’m hoping for a good outcome too, trying to stay positive but last night trying to sleep I had a bit of a panic wondering “what if it’s not a positive outcome?” I’ve got 3 kids and an amazing wife - not sure I’d want to put them through all that. But in the light of day today I’m back to bring positive. Weird things happen when it’s just you and your thoughts eh? 

  • I have my appointment! That was quick. 3 weeks to wait but could be worse. 
    quick question - they haven’t sent any information about what happens, what to wear etc etc. the only thing they said is it will take 4 hours. Is there somewhere I can read up on it? I’ve tried google but it’s all different for different hospitals and clinics. I’m going to a Breast Unit in Edinburgh. 

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to Derek123

    Oooh Derek, you've got me with that question, I haven't got a clue. I imagine loose comfy clothing with no metal bits incase of scans etc. 

    Maybe add a thread to the Ask the Nurse section on here

    And thank you, I have a PET scan on Tuesday so will likely have to wait a while after that for the results. Feeling a bit ugh today and want to have a cry but no tears come so just crack on with life I guess!

    Right, I'm off to my aqua aerobics class now....keeps me out of mischief!