In my experience, it’s actually quite rare for a woman’s breasts to be perfectly symmetrical. Slight variations in size and shape are only natural. However, in some cases, this asymmetry can be more significant. Women with very noticeable breast asymmetry may feel embarrassed, self-conscious, or discontented with the way their breasts impact their overall appearance. This is why I wanted to take a moment to discuss breast asymmetry, including its causes, its effects, and how it can be addressed with cosmetic surgery.
There are several potential reasons why a woman may develop breasts that are asymmetrical in size or volume. One known cause of breast asymmetry is a condition known as juvenile hypertrophy, where hormonal factors cause one breast to grow significantly larger than the other in younger women. Breast asymmetry can also occur after the breasts have fully developed. Changes in breast size may result from pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some women may even notice changes in breast size during ovulation due to water retention and blood flow.
Although many people think of breast asymmetry as a cosmetic concern, the truth is that it can also pose negative psychological and emotional effects. In a study conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), researchers evaluated a collection of adolescents and young women between the ages of 12 and 21 years who experienced breast asymmetry. The breasts differed by at least one bra cup size in all cases. The study found that several aspects of mental health including self-esteem and emotional quality of life were lower for girls with breast asymmetry, compared to those with more symmetrical breasts.
I have experience performing plastic surgery to correct breast asymmetry in a few different ways. In most cases, both breasts will have to be adjusted to provide the new, more symmetrical breasts that the patient desires. For women with larger breasts, I am able to use breast reduction surgery to create a more proportional breast contour by reducing the naturally larger breast more than the other. Breast augmentation can also be performed in this way, using different sized breast implants to add proportion while increasing the size and volume of the breasts. For women with more minor asymmetry, I may be able to correct the issue with fat transfer injections for the breasts.
It’s important to remember that breast asymmetry is incredibly common and nothing to be ashamed of. However, if you experience this condition and are interested in knowing more about potential treatment options, I highly recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon like myself. For more information or to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery today. Don’t forget to follow along with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for additional plastic surgery news, tips, photos, and more.