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Below is a list of common breast-related terminology. If you can’t find what you are looking for, or wish to add to the list, please submit to .
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Areola:
colored circular area surrounding the nipple; the areola often changes color during pregnancy and arousal.
http://www.answers.com/topic/areola
Aspiration:
a method of withdrawing body tissue or fluid, usually with the use of a hypodermic needle.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Needle_aspiration_biopsy
Augmentation, Breast:
to increase the size of the breast through the surgical insertion of an implant.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Balconnet Bra:
bra designed to shape the breasts for cleavage and fullness on top. Often with a half or demi-cup construction, balconnet bras are a good choice to wear with plunging necklines.
http://www.agentprovocateur.com/search.php?Query=Balconnet+Bra
Benign Breast Disorder:
any of a range of breast irregularities that do not of themselves increase cancer risk. Benign Breast Disorders may involve changes in breast connective tissue, adipose (fat) deposits, or milk ducts.
http://theoncologist.alphamedpress.org/cgi/content/full/11/5/435
Bikini:
a two-piece swimsuit covering the breasts and groin, commonly sold as a set. Breast coverage and support range from scanty "string bikinis," to sturdy underwire construction providing support and cleavage. Some manufacturers sell the tops and bottoms individually for more precise fitting.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bikini
Biopsy, Breast:
removing a small sample of breast tissue and examining the tissue under a microscope to rule out breast cancer or other irregularities.
http://www.righthealth.com/search/Biopsy/overview/adam20
Boob Tape:
adhesive strips used to hold strapless bras in place and/or to shape the breast.
http://veryserious.org/2008/12/24/boob-tape
Bra Burning:
an often-cited example of feminist demonstrations in the early 70's, where women burned their bras as a symbol of independence. In actuality, there were no real "bra burnings;" however, the term has since become synonymous with feminist initiative, especially of a political nature.
Brassiere:
undergarment designed to lift, support, cover and protect women's breasts. Bras are tailored to age, activity, fashion, and function, as in nursing bras, push-up bras, sport bras, training bras, etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brassiere
BRCA1 and BRCA2:
tumor suppressor genes. While different in structure, both BRCA1 and BRCA2 work to inhibit uncontrolled cell growth and division. Researchers believe that certain variations (mutations) in these genes indicate greater risk for cancer. Genetic tests are available to determine whether BRCA1 and BRCA2 variations are present.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/risk/brca
BRCA Mutations:
a change in a gene believed to be involved in suppressing tumors. When changes or mutations are present in the BRCA genes, the body's natural ability to halt tumor growth may be compromised.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/BRCA
Breast Abscess:
infection of breast tissue leading to an accumulation of pus. Symptoms include the formation of a lump, swelling, tenderness, reddening. Abscesses may be treated through antibiotics, or in the case of continuing infection, through incision and draining of the infected area.
https://www.google.com/health/ref/Breast+infection
Breast Bud:
commonly recognized as the second stage of breast development, the breast bud appears as result of hormonal changes that begin in puberty. Typically, the areola becomes larger, milk ducts begin to grow, and the breast and nipple begin to rise off of the chest.
http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/girls/sore_breasts.html#
Breast Cancer:
a malignant growth (tumor) that has the ability to spread through the breast and/or metastasize to other parts of the body. Breast cancer tumors can be found in the breast tissue, or in the nearby lymph nodes. Breast cancer is usually treated through a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and removal of the tumor, sometimes along with adjacent breast tissue.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/breast
Breast Conserving Surgery:
removal of breast cancer while preserving as much of the breast as possible. Examples include lumpectomy (removal of the tumor and a portion of surrounding tissue), quadrantectomy (removal of the quarter or quadrant of the breast where the cancer is located), and segmental, or partial, mastectomy (removal of the tumor and a portion of the muscle structure under the breast, and/or lymph nodes).
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/OnCallPlusTreatment/story?id=3643338
Breast Development:
the natural series of changes a young woman's breasts undergo beginning in puberty. Breast development includes several distinct stages and continues throughout the teen years; breasts may not reach their mature size and shape until a woman is in her 20's.
http://www.007b.com/breast_development.php
Breast Lift:
a surgical procedure designed to give the appearance of lifted, or more youthful, breasts. The nipple is moved higher onto the breast shelf and loose skin underneath the breast is removed, giving the appearance of a "lift." Breast lifts are often done in combination with other cosmetic procedures, such as augmentation, or reduction.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Breast of Canada:
Canadian grass-roots organization which produces an annual calendar of the same name to educate, enhance self-image, increase awareness of breast health issues and raise funds.
http://www.breastofcanada.com/
Breast Prosthesis:
an artificially-constructed breast. Breast prostheses are often used after mastectomies in place of the removed breast(s).
http://breastcancer.about.com/od/lifeaftertreatment/tp/prosthese_ov.htm
Breast Pump:
a pump designed for lactating mothers that mimics a baby's sucking action to remove milk from the breast. Pumps are used in cases where bottle-feeding is necessary or more convenient, and allow the baby to continue to receive breast milk instead of formula. Pumps come in electrical and manual pumping models.
http://www.ameda.com/
Breast Reconstruction:
a surgical procedure to rebuild the breast shape following removal of breast tissue. Breast reconstruction may include the insertion of implants to replace the missing tissue, along with the reshaping of the breast.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Breast Reduction:
a surgical procedure to reduce breast size. Breast tissue is removed and skin is tightened to provide a smaller, often more compact silhouette. Breast reduction is often chosen by women to relieve neck, shoulder or back pain.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Breast Self-Exam (BSE):
procedure that allows a woman to monitor any unusual changes in her breasts. Though not as precise as a medical screening, BSE's often give a woman the first clue that something has changed in her breasts. Primary care physicians and gynecologists can instruct women on the best methods for performing a BSE.
From http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/bse_video.asp.
Also see http://www.checkyourboobies.org
Breast Surgery:
any surgical procedure involving the breast or breast tissue. Breast surgeries include lumpectomies, mastectomies, breast augmentation, reduction, lifts and reconstruction.
Breastfeeding (see also Nursing):
feeding an infant or young child at a woman's breast.
http://www.breastfeeding.com/...
Breasts:
the mammary glands of pubescent and adult women. Breasts are comprised of fat, milk ducts, lymph nodes, connective tissue, the nipple and its surrounding areola.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breast
Burlesque:
a style of live performance known for parody and satire often of an earthy or adult nature. Burlesque acts include singing, dancing, theatre arts such as mime and slapstick, and striptease.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burlesque
Bustier:
a form-fitting garment designed to hug the waist and lift the breasts. Bustiers may be worn in place of a bra, or as an outer garment.
http://www.howtodothings.com/fashion-and-personal-care/a4735-how-to-wear-a-bustier.html
Calcification:
a small amount of calcium that has been deposited in the breasts. Calcifications can be detected with a mammogram.
http://www.calcification.com/
Cellulitis:
A bacterial infection of the skin that enters through breaks in the skin. Lymphedema may cause this in cancer patients.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cellulitis
Chemotherapy:
a method of treating or controlling disease, especially cancer, through the use of specific chemicals. Patients may receive chemotherapy intravenously, by a shot, or orally.
http://www.chemotherapy.com/treating_with_chemo/treating_with_chemo.jsp
Clinical Breast Exam:
an examination of the breasts by a medical practitioner (gynecologist, nurse practitioner, general practitioner, etc). The exam usually involves a visual inspection of the breasts, along with palpating the breast tissue and testing the nipple for any unusual discharge.
http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20188178,00.html
Colostrums:
The liquid that issues from the breast of a mother during the first few days after giving birth, before her milk comes in. It is very nutritious, high in protein, and imparts important antibodies to the baby.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colostrum
Corset:
Prior to the invention of the brassiere, corsets were long-line garments that cinched in a woman’s waist, and held the breasts in place.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corset
Cracked Nipples:
areolas that have become cracked due to dry skin, eczema, or as a result of nursing or sexual play. In very rare cases, eczema-like symptoms are an early indication of Paget's disease of the breast, a rare form of breast cancer.
http://www.babycenter.com/0_cracked-or-bleeding-nipples_8493.bc
Cupcakes:
removable inserts used in bras or bathing suits to provide added cleavage.
http://www.herlook.com/cleavage-cupcakes.html
Cyst:
a sac inside the body which is filled with fluid; cysts develop abnormally, though they do not necessarily pose health risks.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyst
Décolleté (adj):
possessing a low-cut neckline; wearing a low-cut dress.
Décolletage (n):
a low-cut neckline that shows cleavage.
Density, Breast:
The thickness, opacity or compactness of breast tissue; breast density typically increases during young adulthood and decreases later in life.
http://www.u-sys.com/Patients_and_Families/index.cfm/12
Diagnostic Mammogram:
mammogram administered for the purposes of diagnosis as opposed to general health screening. A diagnostic mammogram often comes after an initial screening mammogram has revealed areas of concern. The breast is imaged from multiple perspectives to permit a more thorough exam.
http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/abnormalities.asp
Digital Mammography (also Full Field Digital Mammography):
technology that uses digital imaging to map breast tissue, as an alternative to traditional film-screen mammography.
http://www.imaginis.com/breasthealth/digital_mammo.asp
Duct:
channel, vessel or tube in the body that leads from a gland or organ. Lactiferous ducts in the female breast carry milk to the nipple.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duct_(anatomy)
Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS):
ductal cancer cells that are not spreading, or have not yet begun to spread.
http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis/
Engorgement:
to fill with fluid to the point of being swelled or swollen. Breasts become engorged during pregnancy, lactation, and before the onset of a woman’s menstrual period.
http://www.breastfeeding.com/all_about/all_about_engorgement.html
Estrogen:
naturally occurring steroid hormone present in both men and women. In women, estrogen allows for the development and maturation of the breasts and other secondary sex characteristics, as well as regulation of the menstrual cycle. Since a majority of established breast cancers grow with estrogen, estrogen suppression therapies are often used in treating the disease.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estrogen
Estrogen Receptor Tumors:
Tumors that are sensitive to estrogen hormones.
http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/diagnosis/horm_receptors.jsp
Falsies:
inserts placed in a bra cup to give the illusion of larger or fuller breasts.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falsies
Fibrocystic Changes/Condition:
benign condition caused by hormone-related changes in the breast. Changes may result in fibrous growth and/or the development of cysts (fluid-filled sacs). Approximately half of all women experience fibrocystic changes in their breasts.
http://breastcancer.about.com/od/whenitsnotcancer/p/fibrocystic_ch.htm
Fibrocystic Disease:
a breast condition characterized by a greater concentration of fibrous and/or cystic tissue; the condition is considered benign; however, fibrocystic breasts may be more challenging for a woman to monitor in her breast self-exams.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000912.htm
Fibroid, Uterine (also Leiomyoma): abnormal growth in the uterine tissue, fibroids are generally benign, though may cause bleeding, pain, or in some cases, infertility. Fibroids may be treated through a variety of methods, including surgery, embolization (blocking blood flow to the fibroids), hormone treatments, or ultrasound.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leiomyoma
Free Flap:
Reconstructive sugery option similar to the TRAMs with the exception that the blood supply is disconnected and then reconnected in the chest. The blood vessels are sewn to restore blood supply to the tissue. Implants are sometimes used to achieve desired size.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Free_flap
Gel Bra:
bra designed to provide the illusion of larger, fuller breasts through the use of gel pads (silicone encased in polyurethane film) sewn into the cups.
Gene:
specific portion of nucleic acid that controls the expression of inherited characteristics, usually through the production of protein. The coding contained in the genetic strands regulates the structure of protein (or other product) produced and the conditions necessary for the production.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene
Gynecomastia:
condition of enlarged male breast tissue. Gynecomastic breasts are often treated through cosmetic breast surgery.
http://www.gynecomastia.org/
Her/neu (Human epidermal growth factor receptor):
protein is involved in the growth of some cancer cells.
Herceptin:
trade name of Trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody used in treating breast cancer. Herceptin attaches to a specific gene known to be overexpressive in some cases of breast cancer. By binding to the gene, Herceptin restricts the gene’s activity, slowing its rate of expression. It is administered intravenously.
http://www.herceptin.com/metastatic/what-is/how-does-it-work.jsp
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):
treatment to address the symptoms experienced during perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) consists of supplementing the body's hormones with estrogen, also sometimes progesterone (or progestin) and/or testosterone. The hormones may be administered orally, topically (through rings, creme, gel, or skin patches) and occasionally through injection. HRT has been implicated in certain cancers, including breast cancer.
http://www.ehealthmd.com/library/hrt/HRT_whatis.html
Imaging, Medical:
any of a range of technologies and methods used to view, evaluate or diagnose disease or conditions in the human body through generating an image of body tissue. Common techniques include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), radiography, and Computerized Tomography (CT), and ultrasound.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_imaging
Implants, Breast:
round or teardrop shaped silicone packets filled with saline or silicone, used to enlarge the breasts. Silicone implants were taken off the market in 1992, as a result of health and safety concerns; they have since been re-introduced.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Incisional Biopsy:
surgical removal of a portion of tissue, as in a breast lump, to examine the tissue more closely.
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2466
Indecent Exposure:
deliberate display of certain parts of the body (genitals, breasts) in a setting where it is likely to be deemed offensive. In the United States, a woman (but not a man) who publicly exposes any part of her breast below the areola may be charged with indecent exposure.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indecent_exposure
Infiltrating Cancer:
an invasive cancer that is capable of spreading into adjacent tissue.
http://www.cancer.gov/templates/db_alpha.aspx?CdrID=46349
Inflammatory Breast Cancer:
Special class of cancer where the breast looks inflamed or infected because of its red appearance and feels warm to the touch. The skin shows signs of ridges or may have a pitted appearance.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Sites-Types/IBC
La Leche League:
international organization devoted to educating and supporting women and the general public on the benefits of breastfeeding.
http://www.llli.org/ab.html?m=1
Lactation:
breast milk production; lactation begins following childbirth and is preceded by the secretion of colostrums.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactation
Lactivism:
“Lactation Activism” is a practice seeking to raise public awareness of breastfeeding, especially in regard to the nursing of children in public.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactivism
Lactivist:
one who believes that lactating women and their babies should be allowed to engage in breastfeeding in the manner they choose for their comfort and sustenance.
Latissimus Dorsi:
Reconstructive surgery option where the skin and muscle from the back are removed and “tunneled” under the skin to the front of the chest to create a pocket. Implants are usually inserted into the pocket to achieve the desired size.
http://breastcancer.about.com/od/reconstructivesurgery/tp/latissimus_dorsi.htm
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1274087-overview
Lobular Carcinoma in Situ:
the presence of potentially cancerous cells within the milk-producing breast tissue.
http://breastcancer.about.com/od/types/p/LCIS.htm
Lobules:
milk-producing breast tissue.
http://www.womenshealthzone.net/cancer/breast-cancer/lobes-lobules/
Lumpectomy:
method of breast conserving surgery where the cancerous tumor is removed, along with a small portion of surrounding tissue.
http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy/what_is.jsp
Lymph Nodes:
part of the body's immune system, lymph nodes are small, roundish glands that filter the lymph fluid. Lymph nodes sometimes become a site of cancer that has spread from other parts of the body
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymph_node
Lymphatic Drainage System:
Moves protein and fluid from the body tissue back into the blood stream. Also acts as a filter removing malignant and bacterial cells out of the bloodstream.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphatic_system
Lymphedema:
condition caused by incomplete drainage of lymph, often as the result of surgery, radiation treatment or removal of the lymph nodes and vessels. Lymphedema is characterized by swelling in the arm.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
use of radio waves to generate computerized images of internal body tissues in order to evaluate or diagnose. MRI's may be used to generate more accurate images of soft tissue than can be detected through X-rays.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_resonance_imaging
Malignancy:
tumor tending toward increasing in size, spreading to surrounding tissue, or metastasizing to other areas in the body.
http://www.cancer.gov/Templates/db_alpha.aspx?CdrID=45771
Malignant:
Cancerous.
Mammogram:
image of the breast created for breast cancer screening and/or as a step in diagnosis. Mammograms usually involve low-radiation x-rays of breast tissue, though other technologies are also in use. (See Digital Mammography and Tomosynthesis.
http://women.webmd.com/mammogram-16573
Mammography:
imaging the breast to screen for abnormalities. Techniques include film, digital and 3-D (see: Tomosynthesis).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mammography
MammoPad:
soft cotton removable pad placed on the mammography plates to reduce the discomfort of mammograms.
http://www.mammopad.com
Mardi Gras:
literally, "Fat Tuesday." Mardi Gras marks the last day of Carnival, and comes immediately before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Since Lenten practices emphasize the sacrifice of favorite pleasures (or vices) during the weeks leading to Easter Sunday, Mardi Gras traditionally provided the last celebration before a period of restraint.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mardi_Gras
Urban legend claims it is “traditional” for women to flash their breasts in exchange for the beads thrown from Mardi Gras parade floats.
http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/quartermardi.html
Mastectomy:
a surgical procedure removing all or part of the breast in order to treat or in some cases prevent breast cancer.
http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/what_is.jsp
Mastitis:
infection of the breast, accompanied by swelling or inflammation.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mastitis/DS00678
Mastopexy:
plastic surgery technique to lift the breasts.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Menopause:
the period of time when a woman's menstrual cycles have ceased. Many women’s breasts change size and become more sensitive due to such hormonal changes.Adverse symptoms of menopause may be treated with various therapies, including herbal remedies and/or hormone replacement therapy.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/menopause/DS00119
Metastasizing:
the action of cancer spreading from the original site to other locations in the body, through the blood or lymph.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metastasis
Monokini:
style of woman's swimwear comprised of either the bikini bottom alone (breasts are left bare), or a bikini-style top and bottom, connected into one piece through fabric, chain, etc. Rudi Gernreich designed the first "topless" or monokini swimsuit.
Pictures
http://images.google.com/...
Montgomery Glands:
sebaceous glands in the areola that excrete small amounts of fluid to lubricate the nipple and areola.
Naturist:
one who practices nudity, usually in a community of like-minded others engaging in non-sexualized and family-inclusive activities.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturism
Neathage:
like cleavage, but revealing the underside of the breast, as seen with the wearing of tight, cropped tops.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=neathage
Needle Biopsy:
diagnostic tool involving the injection of a very fine needle into a suspicious mass or lump. Cells are extracted and examined to determine whether the lump is benign or malignant.
Nipple:
the protruding tissue on the breast where, in women, the milk ducts open to allow for lactation/nursing. Surrounded by the areola, the nipple is sensitive to touch and is a site of sexual arousal for some women.
http://www.007b.com/nipple_gallery.php
Nipple Shields (breastfeeding):
artificial nipples usually made of rubber, latex or silicone, placed over a nursing mother's nipples in order to protect sensitive skin, or assist the baby in breastfeeding.
Nipple Shield (jewelry):
a piece of jewelry worn over the nipple, made famous by Janet Jackson “wardrobe malfunction” during the 2004 Superbowl half-time show.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nipple_shield_(jewelry)
Nudism:
practice of going without clothing, usually in mixed-group settings, often in a natural and/or secluded environment.
http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/nudism
Nursing (see also Breastfeeding): to feed an infant or young child at a woman's breast.
Oxytocin:
hormone and neurotransmitter released by both men and women during orgasm, and by women during childbirth and nursing/nipple stimulation. Oxytocin promotes feelings of bonding, stress-relief, and may heighten the sense of trust and well-being. After childbirth, oxytocin prompts the breasts' "let-down" response, allowing milk to collect in the breast in preparation for the infant's suckling.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxytocin
Pasties:
decorative round nipple coverings made of cloth, metal or other material, affixed to a woman's breast with adhesive. Frequently used in striptease or burlesque routines.
Pectoralis Major:
large, fan-shaped muscle; the pectoralis major runs under the breast tissue and attaches to the ribs.
Perimenopausal:
The condition of being in the stage of perimenopause--the phase of a woman's lifecycle preceding the onset of menopause. During perimenopause, a woman's levels of estrogen and progesterone diminish, as does her fertility. Perimenopause varies in length by a few months up to a few years.
http://www.womenshealthfinder.com/menopause/perimenopause/?kid=1326020&ad=21484551013
Plunge Bra:
bra, usually underwire, designed to provide deep cleavage; the breast shelf is not lifted as high as with the similar push-up bra.
Positron Emission Tomography Scan (PET Scan):
medical imaging technique used frequently in the scanning and diagnoses of tumors and/or metastases. The PET scan works by tracking and imaging the activity of a radioisotope injected into the body. PET scans can provide information of activity at the molecular level.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positron_emission_tomography
Post-Menopausal:
period of time in a woman’s life following menopause.
http://www.womentowomen.com/menopause/postmenopausal.aspx
Pre-Menopausal:
phase in a woman's life prior to the cessation of menstruation.
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-premenopause.htm
Primary Tumor:
The original tumor.
Progesterone:
steroid hormone occurring naturally in both men and women, progesterone is sometimes called "the pregnancy hormone" for the important role it plays during gestation. Progesterone and the synthetic hormone progestin are often used in hormone replacement therapy.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progesterone
Prognosis:
anticipated or likely outcome of an illness or course of disease.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prognosis
Prophylactic Mastectomy:
preventative removal of breast tissue in cases where the likelihood of breast cancer is high.
http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/prophylactic_mast.jsp#What
Protocol:
organizing plan that guides the course of a research study, experiment, treatment or procedure.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clinical_trial_protocol
Pseudolump:
lump-like mass of breast tissue, which is proven upon removal to be of normal composition.
http://breastcancer.about.com/od/mammograms/p/pseudolumps.htm
Ptosis:
sagging or drooping, especially in regard to the natural course of the body over time, as in ptosis of the eyelids, breasts, etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ptosis_(breasts)
Puberty:
developmental stage marking the onset of sexual maturity as measured in a physiological sense. Changes in hormone levels allow for the maturation of the sex organs, making reproduction possible, and also resulting in the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as pubic hair, breasts, etc.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puberty
Push-Up Bra:
bra designed to increase the effect of cleavage; popularized through the Wonderbra.
Radical Mastectomy:
breast cancer surgery involving removal of the affected breast, along with underlying chest muscles and the lymph nodes under the arm. Radical mastectomies, while historically the most common type of breast cancer surgery, are now seldom performed, in favor of less drastic surgeries.
http://www.breastcancer.org/pictures/treatment/skin_sparing_mastectomy/radical.jsp
Radiologist:
physician who specializes in the practice of medical imaging using a variety of technologies, including X-ray, CT, and MRI. A diagnostic radiologist is trained to interpret the imaging and make a diagnosis; a radiologic technologist (or diagnostic radiographer) is the person who conducts the actual exam.
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=15892
Raloxifine:
drug used to prevent the spread of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. Taken orally.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raloxifene
Reconstruction, Breast:
medical procedure commonly used after mastectomy to rebuild the affected breast, using tissue from other parts of the patient's body, and/or prosthetics. Reconstruction of the nipple and areola of the affected breast, as well as cosmetic surgery for the non-affected breast to enhance symmetry, may also be performed.
http://www.cancer.org/...
http://breastreconstruction.org/
Recurrence:
a repeated occurrence or return, especially with a cancer that formerly seemed to be completely gone.
http://www.cancer.gov/dictionary/?searchTxt=recurrence
Remission:
the disappearance of the symptoms of disease; the moment when the disease is no longer detectable.
http://www.chemotherapy.com/treating_with_chemo/remission/goal.jsp
Risk Factor:
in general, anything which increases susceptibility to certain conditions, diseases, or events. In breast cancer studies, certain lifestyle, environmental and genetic traits have been implicated as risk factors, though the primary cause for breast cancer has not been identified.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Risk_factor
Saline Breast Implants:
see Implants.
http://www.breastoptions.com/saline.html?en=google&sID=00&keyword=content
Sentinel Node Biopsy:
Diagnostic procedure used to determine whether breast cancer has spread to auxiliary lymph nodes (i.e. lymph nodes under arm).
Sexual Harassment:
inappropriate and/or unwanted attention of a sexual nature, made through physical, verbal, or visual means. Also, intimidation through sexual attention or innuendo, especially in workplace, school, and campus settings, or in situations involving subordinates.
http://www.sexualharassmentsupport.org/
Silicone Breast Implants:
see Implants.
http://www.breastoptions.com/silicone.html
Sports Bra:
bra designed with extra comfort and support to cushion and contain the breasts during athletic activity.
Staging:
Tests and exams done before any kind of definitive treatment to determine if cancer has spread.
Strapless Bra:
bra designed to support the breasts without over the shoulder straps, worn with backless tops or dresses.
Tamoxifen:
drug treatment for cancer, also now approved for preventative treatment in some cases. Tamoxifen acts to slow the spread of cancer by blocking estrogen in certain tumors.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamoxifen
Taxol:
tradename for Paclitaxel, a cancer drug whose components were first identified in the bark of the Pacific yew tree.
http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments/Chemotherapy/Individualdrugs/Paclitaxel
Teaseorama:
international convention of burlesque performers.
http://www.teaseorama.com/
TERA (Topfree Equal Rights Association):
Canadian association which provides education and distributes funds to women facing legal action as a result of going topless under circumstances normally allowed only to men, and to increase public awareness of the issue.
http://www.tera.ca/
Tissue Expander:
Reconstructive surgery option where an expander is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle. Over time, liquid is slowly inserted into the expander(s) to gently “stretch” the skin. A permanent implant replaces the expander once the desired size is achieved.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/...
Tomosynthesis (3-D Mammography):
imaging technique where breast tissue is imaged in sections to create a three-dimensional image.
http://www.aip.org/dbis/AAPM/stories/17101.html
Top-Free Movement:
campaign to allow women to go top-free anywhere that men are allowed to do the same (see www.tera.ca).
Topless Beach:
beach where both men and women are allowed to go top-free, though all must wear clothing that covers the genital area.
http://travel.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Topless_Beach
Training Bra:
bra designed for adolescent girls whose breasts are beginning to develop. Training bras offer little in the way of support or shaping, but may help validate the process of maturation, acknowledging the experiences a young woman has of her changing body.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Training_bra
Trams Flap:
Reconstructive surgery option where the surgeon “tunnels” skin, fat, blood vessels and at least one of the abdominal muscles under the skin to the chest to create a new breast(s). Some patients opt for implants to achieve desired size.
http://www.breastreconstruction.ca/living_tram.htm
Tumor:
a growth or new occurrence of tissue as a result of abnormal cellular development. A benign tumor does not pose a health treat; a malignant tumor indicates the presence of disease, as in cancer.
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5863
Ultrasound (also, Medical Sonography or Ultrasonography): method of imaging body tissues through the focused use of sound waves passing at a level beyond human hearing. Ultrasound technologies are also used for treating tumors and certain soft tissue injuries.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_ultrasonography
Virginial Hypertrophy:
excessively rapid and/or early development of large breasts in a young woman.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virginal_breast_hypertrophy
Wet-nursing:
breastfeeding a child that is not your own. While wet-nursing has been part of cultures around the world, it has become less prevalent in modern developing countries due to the use of infant formula.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wet_nurse
