The Importance of Breast Self-Exams
At K Plastic Surgery, we consult with women far too often who’ve overcome breast cancer. While we’re thrilled that the women we encounter have beaten the disease, we’d be much happier if we heard more stories of early detection and complete treatment.
Breast Self Exams
Early detection of breast cancer is dependent upon regular breast self-exams. At least monthly, check your breasts for lumps, thickened tissue, and texture changes. Performing a complete self-exam entails surveying and feeling your breasts in multiple positions.
Start by looking at your bare breasts in the mirror. Uneven breasts aren’t necessarily cause for concern. One larger and one smaller breast is normal. But watch for changes in color and texture of the breast skin and nipples. Place your hands on your hips to tighten your chest muscles. Lean forward and back to scan your breasts from every angle. Be sure to also check for discharge from your nipples.
Then, feel your breasts for abnormalities. Start at your collarbone and continue down to the ribs below your breasts and from your armpits to between your breasts. Use an up-and-down pattern on both breasts. Lying down, make a circular motion across the same areas. Take note when you encounter distinctly different tissues.
Questionable skin and tissue include:
- Noticeable changes to the breast skin or tissue
- Marble-like lumps within the breast tissue
- Lump or thick tissue near your armpit
- Dimpled or puckered breast skin texture
- Red skin of the breast or nipple
- Excess or bloody nipple discharge
What Does This Mean?
Some changes can indicate breast cancer. Others may be benign. Consulting with your doctor is the best way to determine if you’ve developed the disease. Should you be diagnosed with breast cancer early, your chances of a complete recovery are much more likely.
Performing breast reconstructions is one of the most rewarding procedures we offer. We understand that these patients have overcome a great struggle. And we love to restore patient confidence with a new pair of breasts. Contact us at K Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha, a board-certified plastic surgeon located in Albany, NY.
Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.