Correcting Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry is a common concern among women. While this condition can be quite severe, it is important to note that it is extremely common. The vast majority of cases are mild. One study found at least 65% of women have some mild asymmetry in their breasts. Other, similar studies have put that number at closer to 88% of adult women.

Breast asymmetry is defined as a difference in one or more of the following:

• form
• position
• volume of the breast

Some breast asymmetry is normal and can fluctuate throughout life. For example, asymmetry is usually more noticeable during puberty, pregnancy, and during breast feeding. Doctors are not completely sure what causes breast asymmetry, but possible contributors include hormonal changes or imbalances, traumatic injuries, an underlying medical or skeletal condition, and in rare cases breast cancer.

Small differences in the size and shape of your breasts are nothing to be concerned about. However, if the differences are greater than one bra cup size it may cause psychological distress. If you are seeking to correct any breast asymmetry, there are three options: augmentation, reduction, and/or a lift.

Breast Augmentation

Breast asymmetry can be corrected through a few different breast augmentation techniques. If you are looking to increase the overall size of your breasts, or would like to match the size, and shape to a certain extent, of your larger breast, then a standard breast augmentation might be something to consider. As with any breast augmentation surgery, you will have your choice of silicone or saline implants. Whatever your choice, different sizes are used in each breast to correct the asymmetry and obtain a natural look. You may also choose a round or teardrop (anatomical) breast implant, which can help improve shape asymmetry as well, to a certain extent. You can see breast augmentation photos Toronto in our online gallery.

Breast Reduction

For women who simply prefer the size and shape of their smaller breast, breast reduction is a possible solution. In this case, your surgeon will remove tissue in the larger of your two breasts. This can be done by excision or liposuction, the former involving a more extensive incision than the latter. This creates a contour closer in size and shape to the other breast.

Breast Lift

If your breast asymmetry presents as excessive sagging on one side, then the best option for you may be a simple breast lift, or mastopexy. Removing sagging and excess skin from one breast can often be enough to give it a more symmetric shape, complimenting the other breast. This procedure can be completed with several different types of incisions, each with their own capabilities. Choosing the proper technique will depend greatly on your body. Regardless of the specific incision used, the goal of a breast lift is to remove unnecessary skin, tighten sagging breast tissue, and support the new perkier breast contour.

For a lot of women, a combination of reduction and lift are needed for the best results. These two can be performed at the same time.

Regardless of the technique you choose to treat your breast asymmetry, it is important to remember that nearly all women have at least some asymmetry in their breasts. Most women find mild asymmetry nothing to be of concern. Asymmetry is the norm, especially in young girls going through puberty. With time, asymmetry may improve on its own.

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