Breast Anatomy

The human female breast anatomy is a complicated structure which has evolved throughout history and continues to be the source of extreme interest today. Breasts are combination structures comprised of fat, connective tissue and glands. Prominent breasts are unique to the human species, which has led to widespread debate concerning primary and secondary functions of female breast tissue.

Breast Anatomy

Breast Anatomy Facts

The breast is a common name for the entire mammary structure. A normal human female has 2 breasts placed relatively symmetrically on the chest wall. Breasts are attached to the body by skin, connective tissue and fascia directly on top of the pectoral muscles. Breast size and shape do not have anything to do with functionality or breastfeeding ability. Breasts are also present in human males, although they do not normally develop in the same manner as female breasts.

Breast Anatomy Structures

The breast is made up of individual tissue types which combine to form the breast mound itself:

* Nipple (mammary papilla) is the defining center point of the breast. The nipple contains tiny ducts used to breast feed and is ultra sensitive to cold and manual stimulation.

* Areola is the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple.

* Cooper�s Ligaments help support the breast and define its shape.

* Connective Tissue (primarily collagen and elastin) also help to define the breast and give structure.

* The inframammary fold separates the breast from the lower chest wall.

* Mammary Glands exist in each breast. Each individual breast contains 1 complex mammary gland which is divided into 10 to 20 simple mammary glands. These simple mammary glands contain smaller structures used to actually produce and distribute milk to the nipple.

* Fat (adipose tissue) accounts for much of the breast mass.

Human Breast Anatomy

The breast is covered by skin which is rich is blood supply and neurological connections. The nipple area is particularly full of both nerves and blood vessels. Breasts can grown or shrink from weight gain or loss, since they feature a high fat content. Breasts will grow during pregnancy and most likely shrink back to normal size, or smaller, after the end of nursing. The human breast is obviously the primary source of nourishment for infants, but is also a sexual organ and an evolutionary marker designating fertile women. One theory of human breast development, championed by Zoologist Desmond Morris, states that the protruding breast mimics the contours of the buttocks and became an easily recognizable frontal trait among women who were of age to bear children.

The Bottom Line on Breast Anatomy

Breasts are the symbols of life and motherhood. They occupy a place in our earliest memories, which although beyond our recollection, is still responsible for our most crucial development. Breasts are a source of sustenance, bonding and quality time between mother and child. Breasts are a source of great sexual pleasure. Breasts are also a societal factor influencing fashion, social standing and body image, both from an internal and external point of view. Breasts truly are an inherent part of being human. Regardless of the shape or size of your breasts, it is clear that they are yours and yours alone, and help to make you the unique and beautiful person you truly are.

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Breast Anatomy to Breast Enlargement, Breast Reduction & Breast Implants
11/29/07 Revised 5/28/08