Breast MoundThe breast mound is the actual sum of all breast tissues which projects off the chest wall. The human female breast is a marvel of design and beauty and is made up of a wide variety of tissue types. Many of the breast structures serve multiple purposes, making the breast a wondrous combination of aesthetics, functionality and versatility. Although breasts come in a plethora of sizes, shapes and profiles, the anatomy of a normal breast will be identical in components, but varied in structural percentages.What is a Breast Mound?
The breast is composed of glandular tissue called mammary glands, which produce and distribute
milk
to nourish newborn infants. The complex mammary glands (1 in each breast) are subdivided into simple mammary glands (10 to 20 per breast) which work as a team to supply milk during
breastfeeding.
These glands secrete milk and distribute it to the nipple through passageways called lactiferous ducts. The
nipple
is the neurological focal point of breast and the structure used during nursing and sexual response. The shape and structure of the breast is created and maintained by a variety of connective tissues including collagen and elastin.
Cooper’s ligaments
also play an important role in breast shape, profile and firmness.
Fat
is a major component of the breast and is the most common influencing factor to breast size. As a women gains or losses weight, the fat content of her breasts will change, leading to an increase or reduction in breast size. The breast is rich with vascular tissue, which supplies blood and nutrients to all the organic structures. The breast and nipple are loaded with a complex network of neurological tissues which transmits nerve messages between the breasts and the brain. Finally, the
areola
is the pigmented region of skin surrounding the nipple.
Breast Mound StructureThe most common shape of a breast is vaguely that of a rounded pyramid, placed on its side. The breast should be widest at the base and narrow towards the peak, culminating with the nipple. The nipple is usually in the approximate center of the breast, projecting forward, although a wide range of variations can occur. Most breasts are slightly asymmetrical, either in size or placement on the chest wall. These slight variations are rarely obvious unless the breasts are carefully examined. More drastic breast asymmetry is less common, but can cause physical and emotional problems for affected women. Tuberous breast condition can cause an unusual shape to the breast mound and is often corrected using a combination of cosmetic surgery procedures.The Bottom Line on Breast MoundsThe breast is a feminine treasure which serves the purposes of nourishing young life, instilling desire in a mate and providing sexual satisfaction. The breast is an important factor in the fit and style of clothing and is vital in the fashion industry. Most importantly, the breast is a symbol of the female identity and a woman’s attitude about her breasts can and will affect her personal development in many ways. Society is judgmental of the human body, but most women are far more critical of themselves. Attitudes concerning her breasts relate directly to a woman’s sense of self confidence, perceived body image and social interactions. Women with psychological issues stemming from a physical breast abnormality have found lasting relief from a range of aesthetic surgeries. If you think your emotional self can benefit from renewed breasts, talk to a qualified cosmetic surgeon today, to learn which procedure can meet or exceed your wildest anatomical expectations.Breast Mound to Breast Surgery 1/12/08 Revised 6/4/11 |
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