Orange peel effect on breast after mastectomy anyone?

  • 4 replies
  • 279 subscribers
  • 1354 views

I’m now 11 days post mastectomy and I’ve noticed that above my scar some of the remaining breast tissue now has the look of orange peel. I know that this can sometimes be a sign of inflammatory bc, but as it’s come on since my op, I’m wondering if it’s more likely to be something to do with that. The ask a nurse facility isn’t operational on this website at the moment and I won’t be able to contact my breast nurse till Monday. Anyone had any experience of this after mastectomy?

  • Hi Bunty welcome to the forum. I havent had a mastectomy but I can relate to the orange peel skin as that is what happened for me and mine was a sign of the start of some Lymphoedema and this could be what yours is as well which is more likely since your surgery was recent.

    Although the Ask a Nurse is closed for now on the site I understand that there are still Nurses available to speak with if you call the helpline so maybe worth a try until you can get in touch with the Breast Cancer nurses on Monday. 08088080000. Only opens at 8am in the morning so will be closed for tonight.

  • Thanks Granny. I’ve made a note of the number but the oedema sounds like a probable cause so I’m hoping to speak to my nurse today.

  • Hi there I am going into my 4th week post right breast mastectomy snd I have a little bit of orange peel type skin underneath my wound but I was thinking it was cos of radiotherapy I had about 4 months ago cos it can change the texture of your breast. I have some fluid build up  in my wound , I can feel it moving about which is weird. I have told breast nurse but she says it should disperse. I’m seeing her next week so can let you know what she thinks of orange peel skin! It’s all a guessing game. Would be keen to know what you find out. You feel kind of alone after the op is done x

    Jane

  • Spoken to the nurse today and she’s of the opinion it certainly could be post op oedema which will settle given time. I have a video appointment Wednesday so I hope to be able to get a firm opinion on this from the surgeon then. You’re right about feeling alone after the op.