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Common Breast Disorders
Fat Necrosis
Fat necrosis is a lump which forms as a result of local trauma
and injury to breast tissue. Necrosis means 'death of tissue',
caused by fat cells bursting open upon impact, and resulting in
immediate pain and bruising. Scar tissue then forms around the
injured area, creating a hard, irregular lump. This scar tissue
contracts, tugging on the ligaments in the breast, resulting in a
dimpling effect. Although very similar to that of cancer, a fat
necrosis is never malignant, and it is a very rare form of lump.
Treatment
Because fat necrosis often mimics malignancy, removal would be
carried out in the same manner as that for a fibroadenoma. This
minor surgical procedure can be performed under local or general
anaesthetic, and there are absolutely no side-effects. A small
incision will be made near the areola, and the lump excised. The
incision is then stitched, and you probably won't need any
painkillers.
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