Macromastia is a medical term used to describe an abnormal enlargement of the breasts. The spelling of this word is pronounced as /mækroʊmeɪstiə/. In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be broken down into several components. The prefix "macro" means large or long, while "mast" refers to the breast. The suffix "ia" is a common ending used to denote a condition or disease. Together, these components help to explain the spelling of the word and its meaning in the medical field.
Macromastia is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of one or both breasts in females. It is commonly associated with an overdevelopment or excessive growth of breast tissue in relation to the individual's body size, leading to significantly larger breasts than what is considered typical for their age, weight, and stature.
Macromastia can either be present since puberty (juvenile macromastia), or it can develop later in life due to various factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetics, or certain medical conditions. This condition can cause physical discomfort and distress, impairing an individual's quality of life. Affected individuals might experience chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and back, as well as suffer from skin rashes, and difficulty in finding properly fitting bras or clothing.
Treatment options for macromastia may include conservative measures such as physical therapy, pain management, and wearing supportive undergarments, but in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. Breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) is a common procedure performed to alleviate the symptoms and restore a more proportional breast size. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or plastic surgeon for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.
Macromazia, abnormal size of the breasts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "macromastia" is derived from the Greek roots "makros", meaning "large", and "mastós", meaning "breast". Therefore, "macromastia" refers to a medical condition characterized by abnormally large breasts.