How long does it take for breast cancer to metastasize?

Depends: As we have discovered different forms of breast cancer, we realize that each is different depending on the person affected. The biology of the tumor is what makes the difference. The time it takes for a tumor to spread is not standard. We have seen 1cm tumors that present with spread and 13cm tumors (present for over 1 year) that did not spread. It varies widely. Any new lump needs evaluation.

Varies: Each cancer is unique. Some cancer cells have the ability to metastasize very early in their development while other can be slower to metastasize.