Spongy face - is this just ageing?

[GarlicMayHaveNamechanged]

Advise me, fellow elders! I'm 59. Still menopausal and on HRT. At Christmas I noticed a small patch of orange-peel type skin on one cheek: it looks like cellulite, you know? Pocked & spongy. This has now spread to over half of both my cheeks, and the first bits to go are now very wrinkly when I smile.

It's obviously some sort of collagen failure, but I don't know whether this is normal or not. I've got CFS/ME and an uninterested doctor, so am reluctant to present this as a symptom if it's just rapid-onset decrepitude. Have you seen this before?

Spongy bump.

I'm 57 and, although I haven't experienced this myself, I have seen it in a couple of women my age or older. As you say, it's in the cheek area and most noticeable when they smile. I haven't talked about it with them so please go to the doctor if you're worried, however I had assumed it was age related.

Sorry if this isn't particularly helpful but I didn't want to not reply plus another bump my bring someone more knowledgeable along!

Oh, THANKS, Flo!!! It's oddly reassuring to hear you've seen it elsewhere.
Yes, stylish & beautiful MNers, I would like to hear more! My doc dismisses most of my peculiar symptoms unless I've done background research - I just want to know whether this is a normal (if unwelcome) ageing thing or a possible medical indicator.

Certain orange peel effect skin (ie. on breast tissue) should be checked out immediately, by a GP. On the face, if it's very noticeable (and of sudden onset) I'd also show it to my GP, just for peace of mind. If it's just an age thing, you could ask for a referral to a dermatologist but it may be unlikely you'd get one for purely cosmetic reasons.

Sorry, not much help am I ?

You have been helpful, as I didn't realise it was an issue on breasts! Yes, I think it was the speed that worried me more than its existence. Hmmm ... I'll see the doc, but I'm sure she'll just wave me off with a few platitudes

Oh Good! . Whilst you're there, ask your GP receptionist for an info leaflet on self-examination for breasts. Or, go online and have a look. Could be a future lifesaver.

Op, just popping back to say that, just because I think I've seen it on other women doesn't mean you shouldn't check it out with the doctor. Good luck and please report back