Question

My son is 13 years old and suddenly noticed a small hard lump under the left side of his nipple. It doesn’t hurt when pressed, and it feels like there’s something like flesh inside. I’m worried about whether it will have any negative effects on his body and whether he needs to go to the hospital for a detailed examination. If it’s serious, does he need surgery to remove it?

Answer

Hello, the appearance of a hard lump under a boy’s nipple is a common physical change during adolescence, affecting about 40% to 50% of boys. This is usually temporary and is caused by hormonal changes leading to the temporary enlargement of breast tissue, which generally resolves naturally within about a year. This condition typically does not require treatment and will not have long-term health implications. If you still have concerns or questions, you can take your child to see a doctor for further assessment and examination. In most cases, close observation and waiting for it to resolve naturally is the best course of action. Only in rare instances might surgical intervention be considered.