The evaluation of breast fat necrosis begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in those with breast fat necrosis may include:

• New breast lump
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Dimpling in the skin of the breast
• New lump in the armpit that does not go away
• Nipple discharge from one breast
• Orange-peel color of the skin overlying the breast
• Retracted (pointing inward) nipple or changes in the nipple

Tests are required to evaluate breast fat necrosis.

Tests that may be used to evaluate breast fat necrosis include:

• Breast biopsy
• Nuclear scanning of the breast (Miraluma)
• Breast ultrasound:
• May help to identify breast swelling caused by a cyst.
• Mammography:
• This is a special x-ray that can reveal close to 90% of all breast cancers.