Accessory Breast Tissue: Extra Nipples & Breast Tissue Definitely Happen

Accessory breast tissue, or excess breast tissue can occur in various forms and refers to additional breast tissue that develops along the embryonic milk line extending from the armpit to the groin. What is the embryonic milk line? (It may be your first time hearing about it.) It's something that is formed during gestation aka when you are in the womb. Milk lines appear in the seventh week of embryonic development before human sexual differentiation, which explains why male humans have nipples. After initial development of the milk lines they go into remission. Most humans have two nipples, but in some cases more than two will develop, and we are going to discuss exactly that and some additional breast tissue that can be formed in different areas. 

Additional Nipple (Polythelia)

                  -Additional nipples can occur in males or females and can be small and may resemble a mole. 

                  -These typically are asymptomatic and do not require treatment unless causing discomfort or for cosmetic concerns.

                  -Removal can be done under local anesthesia or at the time of other procedures. Commonly I do this during a breast augmentation or breast lift procedure. 

Accessory Axillary Breast tissue (Polymastia)

                  -The armpit region is the most common location for accessory breast tissue.

                  -It may have associated discomfort, pain or swelling particularly during hormone fluctuations (different phases of the menstrual cycle).

                  -This can be breast tissue alone or may be a small area of fullness that may be mistaken for lymph nodes, or prominent tissue.

                  -Treatment varies based on the appearance.  Fullness can be reduced with liposuction but if accompanied by excess skin then many times excision of the excess tissue is recommended.

Accessory Inguinal Breast tissue (Polymastia)

                  -Rarely, accessory breast tissue can occur in the groin area, along the milk line.

                  -It may have associated discomfort, pain or swelling particularly during hormone fluctuations (different phases of the menstrual cycle).

                  -This can be breast tissue alone or may be a small area of fullness that may be mistaken for lymph nodes, or prominent tissue, just as in the armpit area. 

                  -Treatment varies based on the appearance.  Fullness can be reduced with liposuction but if accompanied by excess skin then many times excision of the excess tissue is recommended. I personally meet with my patients to discuss their treatment plan including what I believe to be the best surgical plan and what they can expect their recovery to be like. 

Accessory breast tissue can vary in size and function, and while it's usually benign, it may require evaluation if there are changes or discomfort. If you have concerns about accessory breast tissue, it's best to consult for assessment and advice. If you are looking to remove any accessory breast tissue and would like to come in for a consult, contact the office and we are happy to meet with you and discuss your goals and how best we can get you there.