Written from the perspective of a male breast cancer survivor

When I first found my lump, I never imagined those words – male breast cancer – could apply to me. Like many men, I didn’t know men could even get breast cancer, let alone be treated for it. I also didn’t know if it was curable.

So let me start with this:

Yes – male breast cancer can be curable, especially when found early.

But I’m not a medical expert. I’m simply someone who has walked this road, come out the other side, and now wants to speak directly to anyone who has just found a lump, felt a change, or is scared about what comes next.

The most important thing I can tell you is this:
Go to your doctor. Get it checked. Don’t wait.
You deserve peace of mind, proper answers, and the reassurance that comes from a professional examination.

In the UK, you can contact Breast Cancer Now’s breast care nurse helpline for advice, clarity, and emotional support:

Can Men Recover from Breast Cancer?

Absolutely. I’m living proof.

Recovery depends on things like the stage at diagnosis, tumour type, and your overall health – and that’s exactly why getting checked early makes such a difference.

Your medical team will explain every step, every stage, and every treatment option. And they’re used to talking to people who feel overwhelmed, frightened, or confused. That’s part of their role.

If you’re newly diagnosed, ask your breast cancer nurse or doctor to walk you through the stages in plain English. No question is too small or silly. Understanding your diagnosis is empowering and helps you feel more in control.

What Does a Male Breast Cancer Lump Feel Like?

In my case, the lump was:

  • Firm
  • Painless
  • Close to the nipple
  • Something that simply shouldn’t have been there

But lumps can feel different for different people. Some men notice:

  • Nipple changes
  • A dent or dip in the chest area
  • A hard spot in the breast tissue
  • Swelling or thickening
  • Discharge from the nipple
  • A patch of skin that suddenly looks or feels different

The key message is this:
If you’ve noticed anything different, trust your instincts and get it looked at.

Only a medical professional can tell you what it is – and many lumps do turn out to be harmless. But if it is something, catching it early gives you the best possible outcome.

How Does Breast Cancer Start?

I’m not a doctor – and you absolutely should ask your consultant or breast care nurse to explain your specific situation – but in simple terms:

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast tissue start growing in an uncontrolled way. In men, this tissue sits behind and around the nipple. Hormones, genetics, age and lifestyle can sometimes play a role, but often there is no clear reason at all.

And that’s important to hear:

You didn’t cause this. You didn’t do anything wrong.

Having your medical team explain how and where your cancer started can remove a lot of fear and self-blame, and allow you to focus on treatment and recovery.

How Do They Treat Male Breast Cancer?

Treatment for male breast cancer is very similar to treatment for breast cancer in women, because the disease behaves in similar ways.

Common treatments include:

  • Surgery – often a mastectomy (removal of breast tissue, albeit smaller than women)
  • Hormone therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapies
  • Radiotherapy

Everyone’s path is different. Some men will have surgery plus tablets, others will have chemo or radiotherapy as well. My own treatment didn’t include chemo or radiotherapy – and that came with its own mix of relief and guilt. But there is no “right” journey. There is only your journey, guided by professionals who treat breast cancer every single day.

Make sure you ask your team questions such as:

  • What stage is my cancer?
  • Why is this the recommended treatment plan for me?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Are there any alternatives?
  • What support is available specifically for men with breast cancer?

If you’re unsure about anything you’ve been told, or you just need to hear it again in a calmer moment, contact Breast Cancer Now’s nurses on the helpline or by email. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and very good at helping you process information.

A Final Word: Go and Get Checked

If you’ve found a lump or something doesn’t feel right, please – please – see a doctor.

Male breast cancer is rare (1 in a 1000 men), but it does happen. And early diagnosis gives you the best chance of a cure and a long, healthy life ahead.

You are not alone. You are not an inconvenience. Your health matters.

And if a recovered male breast cancer survivor can reassure you of anything, it’s this:

Getting checked is the bravest and most important step you will ever take.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. This content is based on my personal experience as a male breast cancer survivor and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak to your GP, consultant, breast care nurse, or a qualified healthcare professional about any concerns. In the UK you can also contact Breast Cancer Now’s breast care nurse helpline on 0808 800 6000 or email nurse@breastcancernow.org for expert support.