Concerns About Dimples Beneath the Armpit
Hi there, I’m a 45-year-old woman weighing 193 pounds. My medical background includes a history of depression and anxiety, which I have effectively managed for several years with Sertraline. I have annual appointments with my primary care physician for mental health management, a dermatologist for skin issues, and I also undergo yearly mammograms. I have a concern that I’d like to address regarding whether I should consult a doctor. Recently, as I was applying deodorant, I discovered two dimples on the left side of my torso, situated about 5 inches below my armpit and a few inches away from my breast. I'm not entirely certain where the breast tissue anatomically ends, but I can tell this is outside the typical contour of the breast. These dimples are only noticeable when I lift my arm. Upon raising my other arm, I observed that there was a smaller dimple in a similar location on that side. While the symmetry of the dimples suggests it might not be a major issue, I am aware that changes like dimpling can sometimes indicate breast cancer, and I've read that breast tissue can extend into the armpit area. However, I'm unsure about how far laterally this tissue extends, and I’m contemplating whether this is something that warrants a visit to my healthcare provider. I should clarify that these dimples are located neither in the armpit nor within the breast itself. Thank you for taking the time to consider my inquiry.
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 8:50:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about changes in your body, especially when they relate to areas like the breast and underarm. The dimples you've noticed are definitely something to pay attention to, but there are several possible explanations for them.
Main Points
- Dimples that appear when you move your arm can be benign and aren’t always a cause for alarm.
- Anatomical changes can occur for various reasons, and some may require further investigation.
- It's wise to monitor these changes and consider discussing them with your healthcare provider.
Explanation
Dimpling of the skin can be caused by several factors other than breast cancer, including:
- Normal anatomical variations: The skin and underlying tissues can change with movement and this can create temporary indentations.
- Fat distribution: Changes in body weight can lead to noticeable dimples in areas like the torso.
- Lymphatic or connective tissue changes: Especially in areas where the skin is more mobile.
The fact that the dimples you observed are symmetrical and only noticeable when you lift your arms may suggest they could be normal variations. Breast tissue does extend towards the side and underarm, but it’s also common to have variations in how tissue and skin are distributed.
Next Steps
- Self-Monitoring: Over the next few weeks, keep an eye on the dimples. Take note of any changes in size, shape, or if new ones develop.
- Self-Examinations: Continue performing regular breast self-examinations. Familiarize yourself with the typical contour of your breast and the surrounding areas.
- Document Any Symptoms: Note any discomfort, changes in skin texture, or additional symptoms that may arise.
- Reach Out to Your Healthcare Provider: If the dimples persist or if you notice any other concerning changes, it would be wise to bring this up at your next doctor's visit or schedule an earlier appointment for peace of mind.
While it’s important to be vigilant and informed, remember that many changes can be benign. Take care to prioritize your mental well-being alongside physical health, and don't hesitate to seek reassurance from your healthcare providers.
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