MODEL RELEASED. Breast self-examination. Side view of the torso of a naked woman manually inspecting her breast during a self-examination. This technique of palpation (examination by touch) conducted regularly is recommended to women as a method of detecting early breast cancer, tumours or cysts. The procedure should start with a visual examination for changes in breast shape and surface texture. Following this, careful palpation using fingers and the flat of a hand run over each breast to under the arm will test the tissue more closely for lumps. Early detection and treatment of breast abnormalities gives better chance of a cure.