Chris
I've had chronic cystic mastitis for as long as I can remember. I think I was 19 when I first found out. My OBGYN made me go see him every six months for a check up since I found out. At 30 I started having mammograms and have had one to two a year for the last 20 years. Thank goodness I've survived unscathed so far. I have massive lumps in both breasts as did my mother. I cannot give myself a breast exam cause I never know what's supposed to be there and what's not. I estimate I have about 10 pounds of extra tissue and cysts that I have to carry around. I'm 50 now and have gotten so bad with the lumps and cysts that I am going to see a plastic surgeon to see if I can have a breast reduction and get rid of the cysts and some uneeded(unwanted) tissue. I am a double D, mostly lumps, and have never been able to go without a bra. In fact to be without a bra is on the painful side. Be faithful with annual checkups and keep on top of it. Reducing caffeine definitely helps. Good luck!