Inframammary fold: Difference between revisions

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'''Inframammary fold''' (IMF) is the natural boundary of the [[breast]] tissue from the lower chest wall. It is the point at which the breast and the chest meet. The inframammary fold is an important anatomical landmark in [[breast surgery]], including [[breast augmentation]], [[breast reduction]], and [[breast reconstruction]].
== Inframammary Fold ==
 
[[File:Imframammary_fold.jpg|thumb|right|The inframammary fold is a key anatomical landmark in breast surgery.]]
 
The '''inframammary fold''' (IMF) is an anatomical feature of the human breast. It is the natural boundary where the lower part of the breast meets the chest wall. This fold is significant in both [[breast surgery]] and [[breast imaging]].


== Anatomy ==
== Anatomy ==
The inframammary fold is located at the base of the breast, where the breast tissue meets the chest wall. It is a natural boundary that separates the breast from the rest of the body. The position of the inframammary fold varies among individuals and can be influenced by factors such as age, breast size, and body habitus.


== Clinical significance ==
The inframammary fold is formed by the attachment of the superficial fascia of the breast to the chest wall. It is a distinct crease that can vary in prominence among individuals. The IMF is located at the level of the sixth or seventh rib and is an important landmark in determining the position of the breast on the chest wall.
The inframammary fold is an important anatomical landmark in breast surgery. It serves as a guide for the placement of incisions in procedures such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. Preserving the integrity of the inframammary fold during these procedures is crucial for achieving a natural-looking result and preventing postoperative complications such as [[bottoming out]], a condition in which the breast implants descend below the inframammary fold.
 
== Clinical Significance ==
 
The inframammary fold plays a crucial role in various medical procedures, particularly in [[breast augmentation]] and [[breast reduction]] surgeries. Surgeons often use the IMF as a guide to ensure symmetrical placement of breast implants and to maintain the natural contour of the breast.
 
In breast imaging, the inframammary fold is a reference point for positioning during [[mammography]]. Proper positioning of the breast relative to the IMF is essential for accurate imaging and diagnosis.
 
== Surgical Considerations ==
 
In breast surgery, maintaining the integrity of the inframammary fold is vital for achieving aesthetically pleasing results. Surgeons must carefully plan incisions and implant placement to preserve the natural appearance of the fold. Disruption of the IMF can lead to complications such as "double bubble" deformity, where the implant creates an additional fold beneath the natural inframammary fold.
 
== Variations ==
 
The prominence and position of the inframammary fold can vary based on factors such as age, [[body mass index]], and [[breast size]]. In some individuals, the fold may be less defined, while in others, it may be more pronounced. These variations can influence surgical planning and outcomes.
 
== Related Pages ==


== See also ==
* [[Breast anatomy]]
* [[Breast]]
* [[Breast surgery]]
* [[Mammography]]
* [[Breast augmentation]]
* [[Breast augmentation]]
* [[Breast reduction]]
* [[Breast reduction]]
* [[Breast reconstruction]]
* [[Bottoming out]]
== References ==
<references />
{{stub}}


[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy of the breast]]
[[Category:Breast surgery]]
[[Category:Medical terminology]]

Latest revision as of 11:10, 15 February 2025

Inframammary Fold[edit]

The inframammary fold is a key anatomical landmark in breast surgery.

The inframammary fold (IMF) is an anatomical feature of the human breast. It is the natural boundary where the lower part of the breast meets the chest wall. This fold is significant in both breast surgery and breast imaging.

Anatomy[edit]

The inframammary fold is formed by the attachment of the superficial fascia of the breast to the chest wall. It is a distinct crease that can vary in prominence among individuals. The IMF is located at the level of the sixth or seventh rib and is an important landmark in determining the position of the breast on the chest wall.

Clinical Significance[edit]

The inframammary fold plays a crucial role in various medical procedures, particularly in breast augmentation and breast reduction surgeries. Surgeons often use the IMF as a guide to ensure symmetrical placement of breast implants and to maintain the natural contour of the breast.

In breast imaging, the inframammary fold is a reference point for positioning during mammography. Proper positioning of the breast relative to the IMF is essential for accurate imaging and diagnosis.

Surgical Considerations[edit]

In breast surgery, maintaining the integrity of the inframammary fold is vital for achieving aesthetically pleasing results. Surgeons must carefully plan incisions and implant placement to preserve the natural appearance of the fold. Disruption of the IMF can lead to complications such as "double bubble" deformity, where the implant creates an additional fold beneath the natural inframammary fold.

Variations[edit]

The prominence and position of the inframammary fold can vary based on factors such as age, body mass index, and breast size. In some individuals, the fold may be less defined, while in others, it may be more pronounced. These variations can influence surgical planning and outcomes.

Related Pages[edit]