Intermammary cleft

Anatomical feature of the human body

The intermammary cleft, also known as the cleavage, is the anatomical feature that refers to the space or groove between a woman's breasts. This area is formed by the skin and underlying tissues that lie over the sternum, the flat bone located in the center of the chest.

Anatomy

The intermammary cleft is primarily composed of skin, subcutaneous fat, and connective tissue. The breasts, or mammary glands, are situated on either side of the cleft and are supported by the pectoralis major muscles. The cleft itself does not contain any glandular tissue but is an important landmark in the aesthetics and function of the chest.

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue

The skin over the intermammary cleft is similar to the skin covering the rest of the chest, but it may be subject to different cosmetic and medical considerations due to its location. The subcutaneous tissue beneath the skin contains fat and connective tissue that contribute to the contour and depth of the cleft.

Connective Tissue

The connective tissue in the intermammary cleft includes the Cooper's ligaments, which help support the breasts and maintain their position on the chest wall. These ligaments extend from the skin to the underlying pectoral fascia, providing structural integrity.

Function

While the intermammary cleft does not have a specific physiological function, it plays a significant role in the aesthetics of the female chest. The appearance of the cleavage can be influenced by factors such as breast size, shape, and the elasticity of the skin and connective tissues.

Clinical Significance

The intermammary cleft can be a site of interest in various medical and cosmetic procedures. For example, in breast augmentation surgery, the placement of implants can affect the appearance of the cleavage. Additionally, skin conditions such as intertrigo can occur in the cleft due to moisture and friction.

Cultural and Social Aspects

The appearance of the intermammary cleft has cultural and social significance, often associated with femininity and attractiveness. Fashion and media frequently emphasize cleavage, and it is a common focus in clothing design, particularly in garments such as bras and dresses.

Related pages

• Breast anatomy
• Pectoralis major
• Mammary gland
• Breast augmentation