I routinely instruct women on breast self-exam, one month after surgery. Although there has, been some controversy on the value of BSE, it is an adjunct to screening women for breast cancer and certainly more available than the annual well women's exam. It doesn't cost many, confer radiation exposure and when practiced regularly, can empower women. Good luck.
Hello,
Breast self exams are controversial as the National Cancer Institute has done a "back and forth" on them. Initially they recommended them, now they have kinda gone back on that position.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/breast/page5
I do not recommend breast self-exams alone, but in combination with regular physicians examinations and screening mammograms. Breasts with and without implants should be screened for breast cancer. I believe self-exams are helpful in this framework.
Every woman should "know" their breasts. This is done by routine self examination during different times of the month. You will find your breasts may feel different at different times related to your menstrual cycle.
After breast augmentation, the implant pushes against your breast tissue and will actually make breast self-exam easier. A small mass which may not have been palpable may become evident.
Therefore, in my opinion, it is important to start or continue self examination when you can do so without much pain or discomfort.
Contact the doctor
