Many people have breasts that can be described as “asymmetric.” This is when one breast looks different from the other in size, shape, position, or nipple placement.
Mild asymmetry is incredibly common. However, significant asymmetry, while not necessarily dangerous, can cause considerable stress, anxiety, and self-consciousness for those who have it.
At his Milwaukee, Wisconsin practice, Dr. Mark Bosbous has helped many people with breast asymmetry achieve the body of their dreams. In this piece, we’ll break down what procedures may help someone who wants a more balanced breast appearance, as well as other details one should know about breast asymmetry.
Why a Breast Lift Might Help
Some people look at their asymmetric breasts and think that one is bigger or a different shape than the other. While this might be the case, it may also be the case that the issue is not size, but position.
One breast may sit lower on the chest, one nipple may point downward, or one areola may be in a different position than the other. If this is the case, you might find that a breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a viable solution to your issue.
A breast lift works by removing excess skin around the breast and tightening the surrounding tissue. This can reshape a breast and give it a new contour while providing a sense of balance between the breasts.
Depending on your anatomy, a breast lift may be recommended for one or both breasts. If one breast is lower, but both breasts have similar volume, a lift on a single breast may be sufficient. However, if a breast is both lower and smaller, an implant or additional work may be required to achieve balance.
When an Implant Is the Answer
If you have one breast that’s noticeably smaller than the other, an implant can help bring the smaller breast closer in size to the larger one.
Using either an implant or fat transfer, one can increase their breast size and improve natural breast symmetry. A patient may also choose to get implants in both breasts, not only giving their breasts balance but increasing the size of both breasts in the process.
Naturally, getting breast implants is a significant decision. If you have questions about getting breast implants, we strongly recommend reading our guide to the most common questions asked by those interested in implants.
Is a Breast Reduction the Solution?
Is one of your breasts significantly larger than the other — but you’re more comfortable with the size of the smaller breast?
If this is the case, you might want to consider breast reduction. This is a procedure that removes breast skin and tissue, then reshapes and elevates the breast to give it a smaller, more proportionate look.
In cases where people have asymmetric breasts, some find that singular breast reduction can create a better match without the need to add an implant into the smaller breast.
Breast reduction also comes with some added benefits. Many seek a breast reduction due to some of the negative effects of large breasts, such as physical pain and discomfort. In cases where one breast is substantially larger, the weight and size difference may also affect comfort, clothing, and balance. Seeking a singular breast reduction can help alleviate these issues.
Why Combination Surgery is Common
In cases where breasts are asymmetrical, it’s rarely the case that one is simply bigger than the other. One breast might be lower, wider, narrower, or significantly differ in one way or another.
As a result, a surgeon like Dr. Mark Bosbous may look at your case and suggest not simply one procedure, but two or three to achieve your desired results. In the preparation process, your surgeon will evaluate breast volume, skin quality, nipple position, health history, and discuss your goals.
Overall, breast asymmetry surgery is highly individualized. By discussing your desires with a surgeon, you can develop a plan to balance out your breasts and give yourself the body of your dreams.
If you’re interested in breast asymmetry surgery, or just have a few questions, reach out and schedule a consultation today.