Female Presternal Region, Anterior View

Description

Centered on the midline, the presternal skin and subcutaneous tissue overlie the manubrium, body of sternum, and xiphoid process, with the jugular (suprasternal) notch superiorly and the sternal angle marking the manubriosternal junction. Bilateral breasts occupy the anterior thoracic wall lateral to the sternum, with the nipples and areolae positioned over the superficial fascia and the glandular mound, typically spanning roughly the second to sixth ribs. Parasternal and midclavicular surface lines help orient the viewer to adjacent costal cartilages and intercostal spaces, while the anterior median line tracks directly over the sternum. Key landmarks are clear. Clinically, the anterior presternal region is where surface anatomy meets the operating field. Median sternotomy for cardiac surgery follows the anterior median line through presternal soft tissue to the sternum, and accurate appreciation of the manubrium and xiphoid location helps avoid low entry that risks the linea alba and upper abdominal structures. Palpation at the sternal angle guides rib counting and localization of pleural pathology, and the parasternal area relates to internal thoracic vessels that can be encountered in chest wall procedures and flap planning. Breast position relative to the sternum also matters when describing medial lesions and planning mastectomy incisions, because medial drainage commonly reaches parasternal lymph nodes. Use this anterior female chest wall illustration for gross anatomy lab manuals, surface anatomy teaching in clinical skills courses (inspection, palpation, CPR hand position), and surgical education materials covering sternotomy approaches and breast examination documentation. It also fits patient-facing brochures that need accurate, modest external landmarks without deep dissection detail. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.