Breast self-examination. Woman's hand manually inspecting her breast during a self-examination. Regular palpation (examination by touch) is recommended to detect early breast cancer, tumours or cysts. First there is a visual examination for changes in breast shape and surface texture. Then the fingers and the flat of a hand are run over each breast to the armpit to check the tissue more closely for lumps. Early detection and treatment of breast abnormalities gives a better chance of a cure.