What is Breast Asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry is a condition where one breast differs in size, shape or position from the other. Almost every woman may have some slight asymmetry. However, for some women, this difference can be quite noticeable and can cause aesthetic discomfort. It can cause a person to lose self-confidence and make it difficult to choose clothes and underwear in their daily lives.
How Does Breast Asymmetry Occur?
Breast asymmetry can occur for a variety of reasons and usually begins to appear during puberty. Women may notice that their breasts grow at different rates during puberty. This process is a natural development process, but sometimes a permanent difference in breast size can occur. Hormonal changes also play an significant role in this process. For example, during the menstrual cycle, swelling and fullness in the breasts may be noticed.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also cause differences in breast size. During this period, one breast may produce more milk than the other or the baby may suckle more.
The aging process can also cause breast asymmetry. Over time, the skin loses its elasticity and the breasts begin to sag. However, both breasts may not sag at the same rate, which can make the asymmetry more noticeable.
Finally, surgical interventions such as mastectomy for breast cancer treatment can also cause breast asymmetry.
After all, some women may have breast asymmetry from birth, while others develop it later in life. In both cases, there are cosmetic or medical treatment options available.
What are the Causes of Breast Asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which are related to congenital-genetic or hormonal changes. The most common causes include:
- Developmental differences during puberty: The rate of breast development may change during puberty, and even when this process is complete, a significant asymmetry may remain.
- Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can lead to breast enlargement and changes in shape.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: These processes can cause volume changes in the breasts, and asymmetry can occur if one breast produces more milk than the other.
- Aging: As we age, tissue changes and sagging in the breasts can make asymmetry more obvious.
- Surgical interventions: Differences between breasts may occur as a result of procedures such as mastectomy or breast reconstruction.
How to Treat Breast Asymmetry?
Treatment options for breast asymmetry can vary depending on the degree of asymmetry, personal preferences, and medical needs. Treatment is usually done through cosmetic surgery, and the goal is to make the patient’s breasts more symmetrical. However, nonsurgical solutions are also available, but these methods usually offer temporary or superficial results. Here are the main methods used in the treatment of breast asymmetry:
1. Breast Augmentation Surgery
If there is an asymmetry situation where one breast is smaller than the other, breast augmentation surgery may be preferred. In this procedure, an implant is placed in the smaller breast to ensure that both breasts are of equal size. Volume is increased and symmetry is achieved by using silicone implants.
2. Breast Reduction Surgery
In cases where one breast is larger than the other, breast reduction surgery may be performed. This procedure involves removing excess tissue from the larger breast to equalize the size. It can also provide functional benefits, such as relieving shoulder, neck or back pain.
3. Breast Lift Surgery
If asymmetry is caused by sagging or differences in nipple position, a breast lift (mastopexy) surgery may be performed. This procedure reshapes the breast tissue and moves the nipples into a more symmetrical position.
4. Fat Injection
Fat injection may be an alternative solution for milder asymmetries. In this procedure, fat tissue taken from another part of the patient’s body is injected into the smaller breast. This provides volume increase and balance is achieved between the breasts.
5. Non-Surgical Methods
Nonsurgical methods include specially designed bras and breast pads. These solutions are usually temporary and can be used especially for mild asymmetries.
6. Combined Approaches
Especially in patients with advanced degrees of asymmetry, performing some of the above-mentioned methods together is called combined approaches. For example, while one breast is augmented, the other breast is lifted and a prosthesis is applied.
Breast Asymmetry Evaluation
The degree of asymmetry and expectations of the patient are evaluated during the preoperative interview and examination. During the examination, the distances of some important anatomical and aesthetic points are measured.
If possible, the use of modern technology such as the Vectra 3D device during the evaluation phase provides a very detailed examination and evaluation opportunity. Thanks to this technology, it is possible to measure and compare the smallest volume and size differences. In this way, the surgical success rate after the operation increases considerably.
How is Breast Asymmetry Surgery Performed?
Breast asymmetry correction surgery is performed according to a plan determined by the surgeon according to the patient’s needs. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and the duration of the surgery varies depending on the method used.
If breast augmentation is to be performed, an implant is placed in the smaller breast and provides an equal appearance for both breasts. In breast reduction, excess breast tissue is removed and the shape is recreated. During breast lift surgery, sagging breasts are corrected and the nipples are brought to a symmetrical position. After all these procedures, the aim is for the patient to have a natural and balanced breast appearance.
What is the Post-Operative Recovery Process Like?
The healing process after breast asymmetry surgery usually takes several weeks. There may be swelling, bruising and tenderness in the first few days. Using a corset or special bra recommended by your doctor will help shape your breasts after surgery. Avoiding physical activity and attending regular doctor check-ups during the recovery process will speed up recovery. Final results are fully visible in approximately 6 months to 1 year.
What are the Prices for Breast Asymmetry Surgeries?
Contact us to learn more about breast asymmetry and to learn the most appropriate treatment methods for your personal needs. Our experienced team will be with you at every stage, providing you with the most accurate guidance so that you can manage the surgery process and the post-operative period in the best way possible.
