Q I had a breast cyst three years ago. Fortunately, the fluid was aspirated and I received the all clear. My surgeon encouraged me to carry on life as normal. However, before the upheaval of that small cyst, I had planned to have a breast enlargement. My husband asked me not to go ahead but I am still seriously considering breast enhancement. But I am concerned that if I choose to proceed and should the cysts recur that they will be detectable?

A Good news that the cyst was benign. Thankfully, cysts are rarely malignant. Breast cysts can occur in up to 50 per cent of reproductive-age women at sometime in their life and these cysts are often caused by a blockage of breast glands. These fluid-filled sacs are common in the 40-plus age group. As all women are aware, breast self-examination is recommended regularly at any age and all new lumps should be assessed to check whether they are fluid-filled cysts or solid lumps. In addition, with or without implants, ultrasound and/or mammograms can be performed by a radiologist.

Breast enhancement is not at all uncommon in women of your age group and many of them may have had cysts, mastitis or abscesses in the past. In common with you they all want the same thing; fuller, perkier, natural-looking breasts. You should now seek a professional consultation with a qualified surgeon and gain confidence in the process. Ensure that you check all the necessary information, qualifications, GMC number as well as the number of procedures of this type that the surgeon has performed. Involve your GP and in fact most reputable surgeons will ask for permission to have contact with them. I then recommend you have a mammogram.

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