A compression plate for tomosynthesis images using an X-ray apparatus designed to take the tomosynthesis images is provided. The compression plate includes an upper area. The width of the upper area is dimensioned such that, for all X-ray images taken during tomosynthesis of a female breast compressed by the compression plate, X-rays substantially penetrate the compression plate. The compression plate also includes a lower area. An average width of the lower area is smaller than an average width of the upper area. The lower area includes a surface of smaller width than the width of the upper area for the compression of the female breast.
