Cosmetic Surgery
Breast Asymmetry
(Surgery for Asymmetric Breasts)
Breast asymmetry can happen as a congenital condition (such as tuberous breasts), or as a consequence of previous surgery.
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No one’s body is entirely symmetrical, but this asymmetry is more obvious in the breasts. When the difference in size and shape is very noticeable it can make you feel self-conscious.Â
Uneven breasts can also be caused by a congenital issue such as tuberous breasts or by surgery or trauma. Whatever the cause, our surgical team can offer you a solution.
On this page, we look at:
- What causes breast asymmetry?
- How surgery can help
- Surgical options for correcting breast asymmetry
- The latest advice on breast implants
What causes breast asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry occurs when the breasts are a different shape or size. This can be developmental, with the difference appearing during puberty. Unfortunately, the difference between the breasts can be significant and therefore, distressing. Many of our patients suffering from congenital breast asymmetry seek help at a relatively early age.
Obvious differences in the appearance of the two breasts can also be the legacy of breast surgery, often for cancer.
How surgery can help
The aim of this surgery is to make the amount of breast tissue and skin the same on both breasts, and to ensure that the shape of the breasts is consistent.
Typically, your surgeon will reduce the size of your larger breast to the size of your smaller breast.
Breast implants are often used on both sides to ensure symmetry in terms of size and shape, and to give you the optimum appearance. This can be achieved in one operation.
Surgical options for correcting breast asymmetry
There are a few surgical techniques and the right one for you will depend on your medical history and the effect that you would like to achieve.
Your surgeon could use your own tissue from elsewhere on your body (fat transfer), a breast implant, a breast expander, or remodel your existing breast tissue.
These options will be discussed in detail at your pre-operative consultations. Together with your surgeon you will decide on the best technique and the size and shape of your new breasts.
The latest advice on breast implants
Since December 2018, regulatory bodies in many countries have made statements about breast implants after some negative publicity about the possible effects of implants on health.
The research data is inconclusive and has been interpreted differently by different countries. No country has advised that women with implants have them removed or replaced as a precautionary measure.
However, breast implants are not designed to be lifelong products and will need to be replaced at some point.
The Breast and Cosmetic Implant register (BCIR) collects breast implant data about patients in England and Scotland. The MHRA has a reporting system to gather and analyse information in the UK and is linked to data compiled by public health organisations in other countries.
The most recent advice from MHRA on BIA-ALCL was updated on the 4th of April 2019.
Frequently asked questions
At North Bristol Private Hospital, the excellence of our surgical team ensures that complications are very rare, however, all surgical procedures carry risks.
Bleeding, bruising, infection, scarring, implant displacement or rupture are all possible after this surgery.
All these risks will be explained thoroughly at your consultations with your surgeon and you will be asked to sign a detailed consent form.
At North Bristol Private Hospital, we know that a stress-free experience with excellent aftercare makes for happy patients and quicker healing. After surgery, you will be cared for by your own dedicated nurse in our luxuriously comfortable inpatient ward. You will be checked by your surgeon before leaving and will receive detailed instructions about how to care for yourself and your breasts at home. You can discuss any issues at your regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon. You can also phone us any time after your discharge if you are concerned or have any questions.
If you have breasts that are significantly different in size and shape and this bothers you then – provided you are in good health – you are a good candidate for this surgery.