How to determine whether what you feel during a breast self-exam is normal breast tissue or a lump
Dec 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Chao
Introduction
When performing a breast self-exam, the breasts are normally symmetrical and the tissue is evenly distributed. Lumps are usually not symmetrical on both sides; they tend to appear on only one side. Patients should first examine their breasts for any changes and pay attention to whether both breasts are symmetrical, which helps determine if there is any hard mass present. Then, place the fingers flat on the breast and feel for any firm areas underneath.
When performing a breast self-exam, the breasts are normally symmetrical and the tissue is evenly distributed. Lumps are usually not symmetrical; they are typically found only on one side. The specific steps are as follows:
1. First, stand in front of a mirror under good lighting with arms raised to check for any localized bulging, dimpling, or nipple retraction. Then place hands on hips and tighten the chest muscles to observe whether there are any changes in the breasts, paying attention to whether both breasts appear symmetrical—this helps identify any abnormal masses.
2. Lie down flat, place one hand behind your head, and use the other hand with fingers together and straight. Gently press the flat part of your fingers over the breast tissue to feel for any unusually firm areas underneath.
3. When examining, keep the four fingers together—use the right hand to examine the left breast and the left hand for the right breast. Move from the outer edges of the breast toward the nipple in a clockwise or counterclockwise pattern. Use the most sensitive part of the index finger pads, gently sweeping over the breast to detect any lumps that may obstruct the motion.
