If you have a cyst in your breast that's bothering you, your doctor may refer you for an ultrasound-guided cyst aspiration. This is a simple, brief procedure to drain fluid from the cyst.
An ultrasound-guided cyst aspiration is performed by a radiologist. They use ultrasound images to direct a small needle into the cyst and remove the fluid. Generally, once the fluid is gone, so is the discomfort. If your doctor suspects an infection, the fluid may be sent to a lab to check for bacteria.
An ultrasound-guided cyst aspiration doesn't require too much preparation. However, there are a few things that you can do in advance, as well as on the day of the procedure, to help ensure things go smoothly.
While this is a minimally invasive procedure, there's a risk of bleeding anytime you pierce skin.
Therefore, we recommend that you:
On the day of the procedure:
During the procedure, you'll be lying on your back or slightly turned to one side. The radiologist will put gel on your breast and move an ultrasound probe across it to locate the cyst. Next, the radiologist will clean the breast and numb the area by injecting a local anesthetic, which may sting briefly. Then, using ultrasound images as a guide, the radiologist will insert a small needle directly into the cyst to drain the fluid.
If your doctor thinks you may have an infection, the fluid will be sent to the lab to check for bacteria. Otherwise, they will dispose of the fluid.
Once the procedure is complete, the doctor will press sterile gauze against the area for several minutes to prevent bleeding. Then, they will apply a small adhesive bandage. Your radiologist or nurse will explain what to expect after the procedure and how you should care for the area when you get home.
Although the aspiration itself will take only a few minutes, please plan an hour for your visit. This will allow time for registration, clothing changes and any possible delays.
You may feel sore as the numbing medication wears off, and you may have mild bruising in the area that was aspirated. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), is usually enough to manage the pain. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a few hours.
There is a slight chance of infection at the insertion site. Please call the Breast Imaging Center or the Breast Care Center immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
An ultrasound-guided cyst aspiration can be an effective way to treat a breast cyst. If all the fluid is removed during the procedure, your symptoms should disappear. Keep in mind that these cysts may refill with fluid over time and need to be drained again.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.
