Breast Asymmetry in Naples, FL

WHAT IS BREAST ASYMMETRY?

Breast asymmetry describes a difference in the size, shape, and/or position of one breast compared to the other. While differences in breast shape and size are usually subtle, asymmetrical breasts can be very apparent in some women. 

The degree of asymmetry can vary widely from woman to woman. For some, this condition is barely noticeable. For others, it can be a major source of anxiety and self-consciousness. Those struggling with this issue often camouflage the problem by wearing oversized clothing to hide their breasts, avoid swimsuits at all costs, and often feel uncomfortable in intimate situations.

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Breast asymmetry surgery is a procedure that corrects the differences in size, shape, or position of one breast to match the other. There are several types of breast asymmetry surgery available, depending on the nature and degree of the asymmetry. The patient and the doctor will go over a plan tailored to the patient’s needs during the consultation.

WHAT CAUSES BREAST ASYMMETRY IN WOMEN?

There are many potential causes of significant breast asymmetry, but it’s often unclear exactly what the cause is in any given case. Some women just naturally develop uneven breasts, while hormone imbalances, injuries, or certain medical conditions may be the cause in other cases. Sometimes, breasts can exhibit asymmetry later in a woman’s life.

Breast size fluctuates throughout a woman’s life. Most women notice that their breasts are fuller during ovulation and shrink back to normal size during their period. During pregnancy, most women notice a significant increase in breast size as the body prepares for breastfeeding, which may create asymmetry.

In some cases, a patient may present with a tuberous breast deformity, a congenital abnormality that occurs during breast development. These women often have pronounced asymmetry of their breasts.

TEENAGERS AND BREAST ASYMMETRY

Teenage girls, whose bodies are still growing and developing, are often concerned about differences in their breast size and shape. Normal fluctuations in hormone levels can cause the breasts to develop at different rates and result in asymmetry. Sometimes, the different breast sizes will resolve on their own, so it is important to give the breasts time to fully develop before considering a breast augmentation or another corrective surgery. 

Juvenile hypertrophy can also affect the symmetry of the breasts. Though rare, this can cause one breast to grow significantly larger than the other. Even though the disorder is correctable with surgery, it may lead to psychological distress. Asymmetry can be a source of stress, especially for teenage girls. Reports in a recent issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicate that differences in breast size can have a significant mental health impact, particularly in adolescent girls. Fortunately, any difference in size between breasts can be corrected with surgery if the problem does not resolve on its own.

Candidates for Breast Asymmetry Correction

Any woman in good physical health with uneven breasts that will not self-correct may benefit from breast asymmetry surgery. The degree of asymmetry generally does not matter, only that the patient is distressed by the difference.

Correcting Asymmetry

Women are considered to have breast asymmetry when there is at least one cup size difference between the breasts. Fortunately, there are methods a cosmetic surgeon can use to effectively even out the breasts and achieve a more symmetrical appearance that meets the patient’s goals and expectations. 

According to the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, over 80% of women who underwent reconstructive breast surgery had breast asymmetry. The most common corrective method for addressing asymmetry is breast augmentation.

During breast augmentation, synthetic implants are surgically placed to add volume and improve the symmetry between the breasts. While implants of equal size are used for traditional breast augmentation surgery, two different sizes are needed for patients with asymmetrical breasts.

Breast lift and breast reduction surgery can also be used to correct asymmetry. Breast reduction surgery is ideal for women who are experiencing back pain or other health issues related to overly large breasts. In this case, they may want to reduce the larger breast to match the size of the smaller one or reduce both breasts to create a uniform appearance. A breast lift is an option for women whose breasts are positioned at different points on the chest.

Breast Asymmetry Consultation

During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and design a unique surgical plan that will safely and effectively deliver your desired results. The surgeon tailors the procedure to fit the patient’s goals. 

There may be a combination of procedures used to help each patient feel confident in their appearance. Procedures can include breast augmentation, a breast lift, or in some cases, reducing the breast volume with breast reduction.

About Breast Asymmetry Surgery

Women who have significant breast asymmetry (generally one cup size or more between the two breasts) often experience psychological distress surrounding the issue. Fortunately, there are ways to even out the breasts for a more symmetrical appearance. The surgical process varies depending on the type of enhancement the surgeon recommends for your aesthetic goals.

The Recovery Process for Breast Symmetry Revision

Patients should expect an initial recovery period of one to two weeks following the procedure. An implant placed below the muscle under the breast usually requires an extended recovery period.

Patients will wear a surgical bra with adjustable straps to help the breasts heal and reduce swelling. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort during your recovery period.

After a few days, most patients are up and moving around without the need for pain meds and may resume light activity. You should avoid exercise, strenuous activity, and heavy lifting for 3 to 4 weeks.

Patients should expect an initial recovery period of one to two weeks following the procedure. An implant placed below the muscle under the breast usually requires an extended recovery period.

Patients will wear a surgical bra with adjustable straps to help the breasts heal and reduce swelling. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort during your recovery period.

After a few days, most patients are up and moving around without the need for pain meds and may resume light activity. You should avoid exercise, strenuous activity, and heavy lifting for 3 to 4 weeks.