Strands of connective tissue serving as a support structure of the breast; provide shape and consistency to the breast parenchyma are called what?

• A. Cooper's ligament
• B. Pectoral fascia
• C. Retromammary ligament
• D. Suspensory ligaments of the breast

Answer: (A)

Coopers ligaments are the connective tissue strands that provide support and shape to the breast. They form a fibrous network extending from the dermis up to the pectoral fascia, anchoring the glandular tissue to the chest wall and to the skin. This framework helps maintain the breast parenchyma’s architecture and contour, which is why these ligaments appear as linear fibrous bands within the breast on imaging. When disease or aging causes tethering or distortion, you may see skin dimpling or changes in breast contour, reflecting the ligaments’ role in supporting and shaping the tissue.