Retraction of skin over breast

[sarikate]

I am a 27-year-old female with a recent history of Graves disease; my father has prostate cancer at 72, but the rest of the family is in good health.  A few weeks ago I noticed a dimple over the skin in my left breast that did not disappear following when I watched it over the course of my menstrual period.  When I showed it to my PCP last week, she ordered an ultrasound.  The PCP called yesterday with a report saying the ultrasound "appears normal," but the radiologist recommends follow-up with a breast surgeon based on clinical findings.  Is this typical protocol?  What exactly might a breast surgeon do if there is no obvious "lump" (just the dimpling) and a clear ultrasound?  The likelihood of this being anything to worry about is pretty negligible, I understand, so wonder if referral to a breast surgeon is necessary at this time, especially since my PCP said I could choose to go or not; I guess I'm just looking for a little more guidance.  Thanks for your help!

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear sarikate:  When there is a clinical abnormality such as a lump or skin retraction, the general rule of thumb is that further evaluation is required.  Although an ultrasound is a good test, no test is perfect.  The recommendation from the radiologist suggests that a breast surgeon, having expertise in abnormalities of the breast, may be advisable to evaluate whether anything further should be done and what the follow up should be.  Ultimately, it is up to you and your comfort level to determine how you wish to pursue this.

[dalip]

No help whatsoever,but i will be interested to hear the reply as i have dimpling/puckering around nipple/green discharge from nipple on left breast with no obvious lump just a little thickening and a clear mammogram.Not sure what steps to take next.Not happy about results as i was sure i would be called back.I have this really strong gut instinct and am very afraid they may have missed something!.
Hope you get the answer you are looking for and all is well.Good luck Dawn

[gia814]

I'm not a medical professional, but sarikate, I'd go ahead and take the appt with the breast surgeon.  Better safe than sorry.

Dalip, if you don't get a call back go for a second opinion.  Normal mammography doesn't override abnormal clinical findings.

[momofmeg]

I agree...  you should for sure see the other Dr.  I had a discharge out of my left side and already I have had 2 mammo's (called back for additional views from the 1st), 1 ultrasound and I'm going to have an MRI next week.  You may have seen in the news reports today, but they are recommending all women over 30 that have any history also have an MRI with their mammo.  I'm only 33 and they didn't find anything that is causing the further testing, but since breasts are so dense and they don't have the greatest view they are being over cautious.  --- I appreciate that...