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    Anatomy of the Breasts

    Each breast has 15 to 20 sections, called lobes. They are arranged like the petals of a daisy.

    Each lobe has many smaller structures called lobules. These end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can make milk.

    The lobes, lobules, and bulbs are all linked by thin tubes called ducts.

    These ducts lead to the nipple in the center of a dark area of skin called the areola.

    Fat fills the spaces between lobules and ducts.

    There are no muscles in the breast, but muscles lie under each breast and cover the ribs.

    Each breast also contains blood vessels and vessels that carry lymph. The lymph vessels lead to small bean-shaped organs called lymph nodes. These lymph nodes are found in clusters under the arm, above the collarbone, and in the chest. They are also in many other parts of the body.

    Three-quarter view of female head, neck, and chest with raised right arm showing anatomy of right breast and lymph nodes.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Diane Horowitz MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
    Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
    Date Last Reviewed: 1/1/2023
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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