Breast Surgery for Asymmetry

Despite outward appearances, the human body is not completely symmetrical. One eye may be slightly larger than the other, or one leg might be a bit longer or shorter than the other leg. The same holds true for the breasts. One breast may be slightly larger or smaller, or sit a bit higher or lower on the chest. In most cases, breast asymmetry is almost undetectable. However, in some cases, there may be a discernable difference in breast size, shape, or placement on the chest. This may not only lead to embarrassment about appearance, but present difficulty in finding clothing and bras that fit properly. Dr. Marcus Crawford and Dr. Steven Bailey recommend such patients consider cosmetic surgery to correct breast asymmetry.

Breast Asymmetry Correction Procedure

Dr. Crawford or Dr. Bailey can perform breast augmentation surgery to make each breast match the other in size, shape, and placement on the chest. A smaller implant may be placed in one breast, with a larger implant being placed in the other breast. If one breast is significantly lower than the other, a breast lift procedure may be required. In cases in which patients prefer smaller breasts, breast reduction can be performed to improve symmetry and bring down overall size. In many cases of breast asymmetry, the nipples and the areolas (the darkened skin surrounding the nipple) may be of different sizes as well. Plastic surgeons can also correct these disparities, if necessary.

Breast Asymmetry Correction Recovery

Recovery from a breast procedure to correct asymmetry is similar to any other breast augmentation, lift, or reduction procedure. In most cases, patients can resume most normal activities within two to three weeks after surgery, while exercise can be resumed at four to six weeks after surgery. Patients may have to wear a special compression garment or bra to reduce the amount of swelling or bruising following surgery.

Breast Asymmetry Correction Side Effects and Risks

As with any other cosmetic surgery, the biggest risk is that of infection. A surgeon can prescribe antibiotics to reduce the chances of infection. Patients may also experience a change in, or loss of, sensation in the breasts. This is normal, as the nerves are finding new pathways; he numbness should subside within a month or two after surgery.

Bruising and swelling are the two most common side effects from any breast surgery. Patients will have to wear a compression bra to reduce the amount of bruising and swelling. Ice or cold compresses, along with taking the herb Arnica montana, will help reduce the amount of bruising and swelling following surgery. Most bruising and swelling will subside within two to three weeks after surgery.

Breast Asymmetry Correction Results

Most patients will begin to see results within three to four weeks after surgery. However, depending on the type of breast corrective surgery, the breasts may not reach their final appearance until one to two months following the procedure.

Patients with asymmetrical breasts who undergo corrective surgery will suddenly find a whole new world open to them of being able to find clothes and bras that fit, as well as not being afraid to show off their figure. Contact Crawford Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation.