Options for Breast Asymmetry Surgery

• Thursday October 12, 2006 | Posted in: Plastic Surgery Procedures

  Breast asymmetry is often not discussed despite it being a relatively common condition suffered by many women.  The topic is balked at that many are unaware there are surgeries that can correct the problem.  
   
  A recent study presented at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Plastic Surgery 2006 conference in San Francisco noted that the embarrassment of having uneven breasts has affected the daily lives, sexuality and confidence of many women.  To some affected women it can be emotionally devastating.  

  All women have some degree of breast asymmetry.  The condition is labeled as ‘unpleasant’ when a woman's breasts noticeably differ in size or shape.  Breasts differing in even less than a half-cup size can be very obvious.  

  A congenital cause of breast asymmetry is called Poland's Syndrome in which one breast suffered ‘underdevelopment’.      

  Breast asymmetry could also be a difference of where the breast sits on the chest.  This occurs when the rib cage is different on the left and right sides and may make one of the breasts sit at an angle or protrude slightly. Also, woman's breasts may appear unbalanced when one breast significantly droops.  

  Although asymmetries are quite common and are nothing serious to be concerned about, it can affect the body contour and general appearance, thus make one uncomfortable and inferior.

  Walter Erhardt, MD, ASPS Member Surgeon and Public Education Committee chair noted that, “the embarrassment of having noticeably uneven breasts often keeps a woman from seeking help.”  Whereas experts agree that breast surgery can considerably elevate quality of life, to include improvement in vitality, mental health and self-esteem.
   
  Depending upon the type and degree of asymmetry, plastic surgeons may utilize one or a combination of these procedures: breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction to correct breast asymmetry and create balance between the breasts.  A surgery on only one breast may correct the asymmetry.

  For case like the Poland’s Syndrome, reconstruction of breast asymmetry includes expansion of the underlying tissues followed by insertion of a breast implant, or creation of a flap to fill the hollow space in the chest wall.

  At the time the patient’s initial consultation, the surgeon will examine all aspects of the chest; including breast size, nipple location on the breast, breast crease heights, ribcage shape and chest width.  Thereafter, a plan will be devised to help achieve desired results – that of an even, identical set of breasts.  

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