Nipple retraction and 'crater' behind areola

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June2019
June2019 Member Posts: 2
edited May 2019 in Not Diagnosed But Worried

New here and the anxiety is certainly taking its toll on me. No answers yet, but continued with scan comparisons, remaining in Bi-Rads Category 3 and new doctor is preparing for the request of additional imaging.

What is the likelihood that it's nothing with these symptoms? Raise left arm and see nipple/areola retraction with crater like area behind areola. Meaning, breast tissue is surrounding the area and there is a hole in breast tissue that you can dip fingers into that is over an inch deep. Have had no surgery nor major injuries (dodgeball as a child, but I doubt that was an issue prior to puberty), and reports are mentioning "possible scar tissue". Multiple mammograms and sonograms with reports to keep coming back every 6 Months.

Is this normal?

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  • Moderators
    Moderators Member Posts: 25,912
    edited May 2019

    June2019, we completely understand how stressful the not knowing can be. Sounds like you are in good hands with your new doctor, who is trying to get additional imaging. There are many benign breast conditions as well, so try to take one step at a time

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  • Mandyhiero
    Mandyhiero Member Posts: 90
    edited May 2019

    I have an indentation when I raise my arm. It’s on the areola under my nipple about the size of a fifty cent piece. I’ve been had two ultrasounds and two mammograms that haven’t shown anything but benign scattered calcifications. In fact, the breast doctor doesn’t even recommend I come back until I’m 40. I’m 36 now. I’m still terrified that it’s breast cancer that they just can’t see without an MRI, but when I asked about possibly doing one she told me that insurance wouldn’t pay unless I had a lump. It’s been about a year and a half and I keep trying to put it out of my mind but I can’t because every time I change clothes or shower I see it. I feel for you because I know how scary it is to not know.
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  • June2019
    June2019 Member Posts: 2
    edited May 2019

    Wanted to follow up that after reviewing previous images, I was given the all clear and see them next year, until I had asked a question. I'm now 44. My first mammogram was when I was 37 for this sudden change. Well, my all clear has changed when I asked for clarification of this symptom. If it's a benign condition, what is it? Placed on hold, after it was discussed with radiologist, the immediate request for a sonogram was made. Back to not all clear. Again.

    An example I gave a co-worker, when looking at the top of coffee mug, cup hand and using same hand, dip fingers into cup...that's what is happening with my breast at areola. Apparently that requires further evaluation. The stress level has not calmed down in the slightest.

    To date, I have had 8 mammograms and 7 sonograms. This latest mammogram completed by a different facility, and honestly they have provided clearer communication than the other facility ever did. Now I wait for the sonogram appointment.


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