October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Why I Never Miss My Mammogram

Why I Get My Mammogram Every October

Every October, I schedule my mammogram — without fail.

As a woman and a board-certified plastic surgeon, I know firsthand how important breast health is. For me, this isn’t just about practicing what I preach — it’s about protecting my own health, setting an example for my patients, and showing my daughter and family the importance of self-care.

Like many women, I often put others first. But that 20-minute mammogram is one of the most valuable ways I take care of myself each year. October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is the perfect reminder to pause and prioritize my health — and I encourage you to do the same.

Why Mammograms Matter

While breast cancer awareness is talked about often in October, action is what saves lives. Mammograms remain the gold standard for breast cancer screening, and here’s why they matter:

·       Early detection saves lives. Mammograms can identify breast cancer years before a lump can be felt.

·       Better treatment options. When cancer is found early, treatment is often less invasive and more effective.

·       Strong evidence. Research shows that women who miss their first mammogram are at higher risk of dying from breast cancer later.

·       Guideline support. Experts recommend most women begin annual mammograms at age 40 (earlier if high-risk).

📅 The best time to schedule yours? This October — alongside me.

✨ In addition to mammograms, I also encourage monthly breast self-examinations so you can stay familiar with your own body and notice any changes early.

Watch my video on how to do a proper breast self-exam.

Thermography vs. Mammography: What You Need to Know

Some women ask about thermography as an alternative to mammograms because it is “radiation-free.” While it may sound appealing, it is not a safe substitute for mammography.

·       The FDA warns that thermography alone is not effective for breast cancer screening.

·       Thermography cannot reliably detect deeper tumors or distinguish benign from malignant changes.

·       Relying only on thermography may delay diagnosis and treatment.

👉 Bottom line: If you want the most reliable screening tool, stick with mammography. Thermography should never replace it.

Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day — October 15, 2025

October also includes Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day (BRA Day USA), observed on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

This important day shines a light on the fact that many women don’t fully understand their options after mastectomy or lumpectomy.

As a female, board-certified plastic surgeon in Winston-Salem, I am deeply passionate about empowering women to know their choices:

·       Implant-based reconstruction for restoring breast shape and volume.

·       Flap reconstruction using your own natural tissue.

·       Combination techniques tailored to your body and goals.

Reconstruction is not about vanity — it’s about healing, wholeness, and restoring confidence. BRA Day reminds us that every woman deserves to know her options.

Take Action This October

·       ✅ Schedule your mammogram in the Winston-Salem area.

·       ✅ Encourage a friend or loved one to do the same.

·       ✅ Learn about breast reconstruction options if you or someone close to you is facing surgery.

·       ✅ Share awareness and support BRA Day USA on October 15.

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If you’re still researching, our plastic surgery blog is a valuable resource where I share insights on procedures, recovery tips, and patient stories to help you make confident decisions.

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Ready to Learn More About Breast Reconstruction in Winston-Salem, NC?

As a female, board-certified plastic surgeon, I provide a boutique approach to plastic and reconstructive surgery — empowering women with compassionate, personalized care.

📞 Call our Clemmons office today or request your consultation online to learn more about breast reconstruction, or to connect with trusted resources for breast cancer screening in the Winston-Salem area.

This October, join me in prioritizing your breast health. I’ll be getting my mammogram — will you?