Normal size and shape of the breast and elaboration of a natural pattern.

An historical resume of the female breast is furnished, and the influence that different ages and cultures had on its shape is discussed. The normal size and shape of the breast is analyzed after a study of 35 normal cases. Finally the technique for obtaining a natural pattern with 3M Scotch tape, Ref. 202, is presented, and the modifications for its adaption to a predetermined normal mammary volume (modified natural patterns) are described. The modified natural patterns are used in preoperative planning for reduction mammaplasties and the natural pattern is used to check the end result.