A closer examination of the assertion: Women Possessing Three Breasts - Truth or Myth?
In the realm of human anatomy, there exists a clinically recognized condition known as polymastia, which refers to the presence of extra breasts outside the normal breast area. These accessory breasts can be found along the embryological milk line, extending from the armpit (axilla) to the groin.
Polymastia is a relatively common anomaly, affecting about 2-6% of women. It can manifest as small tissue resembling a mole, a lump, or even a fully formed and sometimes functional extra breast. Symptoms may include swelling and tenderness, particularly during puberty, menstruation, or after delivery. In some cases, these accessory breasts may produce milk[2][1].
The condition is generally due to an embryological developmental abnormality, with a familial pattern in some cases. Most accessory breasts are located in the armpit, though the exact cause remains incompletely understood[2]. When symptomatic, treatments such as surgical removal can be performed.
A related congenital condition is supernumerary nipples, or extra nipples, which can also occur along the milk line. This condition is distinct from polymastia but similarly involves extra breast tissue components[4].
There has been much controversy surrounding Jasmine Tridevil, a woman who claims to have had a third breast implanted for aesthetic purposes. However, her claim has been met with skepticism from multiple experts, including Dr. Matthew Schulman, a board-certified plastic surgeon, who believes the story to be a hoax[3]. No definitive confirmation or denial of the implant has been made.
Jasmine Tridevil has stated that she wanted to make herself less attractive to men with the third breast implant. The photographic evidence of her third breast is largely based on self-taken photos and videos, which could be easily manipulated. It's important to note that Heavy.com thinks it's a hoax based on various evidence, but they present no conclusive proof.
It's crucial to differentiate between confirmed cases of polymastia and claims of artificial alterations such as those made by Jasmine Tridevil. Polymastia is a clinically recognized and well-documented condition, with treatments established in medical practice[1][2].
[1] Photo Quiz - May 1, 2000 - American Academy of Family Physicians [2] Wikipedia, Polymastia [3] Dr. Matthew Schulman, interview with The Huffington Post [4] Wikipedia, Supernumerary nipples