Fibroadenoma at 10x Magnification
Since they are usually benign and typically stop growing after only reaching a few centimeters in diameter, fibroadenomas are often left alone after they are diagnosed. Even without treatment, approximately 10 percent of fibroadenomas fully recede each year. In cases where pain or tenderness occurs due to the tumors or the tumors grow unusually large, however, excision may be recommended. Many fibroadenomas that are removed are treated in an outpatient venue under local or general anesthesia, though some surgeries require an overnight stay in a hospital. The tumors recur in about 20 percent of patients.