Breast cancer is a major health concern for any adult woman. An important prevention method for breast cancer is doing regular self-checks on yourself in the shower, in front of a mirror, and lying down. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, here’s what you need to do in order to perform a breast self-check:
- In the Shower: Using the pads of your fingers, move around your entire breast in a circular pattern moving from the outside to the center, checking the entire breast and armpit area. Check both breasts each month feeling for any lump, thickening, or hardened knot. Notice any changes and get lumps evaluated by your healthcare provider.
- In Front of a Mirror: Visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead. Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts do, so look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.
- Lying Down: When lying down, the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently in small circular motions covering the entire breast area and armpit. Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.
O’Neill Plastic Surgery
Be sure to do a breast self-check every month. If you find any lumps, swelling, dimpling, or any other abnormalities, do not hesitate to contact a doctor. Here at O’Neill Plastic Surgery, we want you to look and feel your best. If you have had breast cancer and a necessary mastectomy and are looking to receive breast implants, call (843) 881-2130 or contact us online.
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