So first of all, this advice is only useful if you are a UK citizen and have access to our ‘incredible’ NHS.

6 years ago, yes 6, in 2018 I developed a small hard lump in one of my nipples. Slightly bigger than a pea, I didn’t have any other symptoms like puffy nipples or soreness, just randomly developed a lump. I had always trained and played sports so was around 10% body fat at this point with decent muscle mass. It didn’t look odd and I was genuinely concerned.

I went to the GP, got referred for a breast cancer scan and underwent tests. They confirmed it wasn’t cancerous and it was gyno. I had the option to try medication but as I said it didn’t cause any pain or visual discomfort so I left it in hope it would go on its own.

2022 - boom out of nowhere this lump grows rapidly and nipples become puffy with excess fat forming. I had been bulking up in the gym and not playing sports due to having young kids. I went to the doctors again, referred to breast cancer clinic, went through all the tests and they advised me to clean up diet and lose weight. I did this for the next 12 months, I dropped around 10kg / 22lbs. Whilst the excess fat calmed down the hard mass continued growing and was painful.

I trialled Nolvadex prescribed by the clinician, this did nothing. Next option was to apply for funding for the surgery. The GP helped me do this which involved photos and videos.

2 weeks later I recieved notification I had the funding approved and I could contact the breast clinic to arrange surgery - it was as simple as that.

I hope this information might be able to help or shed light on the UK. I am now day 5 post op. And if you have read this far, I would appreciate some help in gauging the time line for recovery!!

When did you start to lift objects (not weights) so kids etc?

When did you start running?

When did you start returning to the gym?