Breast Asymmetry Correction
Introduction:
This surgery is performed to correct a difference in breast shape, size or even the position of the nipple. Most women will have one breast which is slightly bigger than the other and this is usually less than a bra cup size. It can be caused by genetics, pregnancy or menopause. Weight gain can also affect the size and shape of the breasts. However, in some cases there are women who notice that one breast is noticeably bigger in size or shape than the other. In these cases breast asymmetry can help. This procedure tends to be most successful when the breasts are different in size.
Considerations:
Anyone with breast asymmetry can benefit from surgical correction; it is a congenital anomaly and the patient should understand that it is easily corrected. The degree of asymmetry does not matter; if it causes the patient psychological distress, she should consider correction.
Am I a good candidate for a Breast Asymmetry Correction?
– You have a difference in breast shape, size or even the position of the nipple.
About Your Procedure:
How is a breast asymmetry procedure performed?
Breast asymmetry can be corrected by either making the large breast smaller, or the smaller breast larger. Often the patient has a preference as to which breast they prefer and the surgeon tailors the operation to match that breast. A small breast can be made larger with an implant, in either saline or silicone. A larger breast often needs a reduction and a breast lift to match the opposite breast. In addition, the larger breast often has a larger areola which also needs to be reduced in size the match the opposite side.
Preparing For Your Procedure:
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon may ask you to:
– Stop smoking before undergoing surgery to promote better healing.
– Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs and some herbal medications that can cause increased bleeding.
– Be hydrated – regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after surgery for safe recovery.
Aftercare And Recovery
The patient should expect very good symmetry. The recovery is usually about 1 week. If the patient has an implant under the muscle, she may need 2 weeks to recover. All of our patients wear a sports bra for support 24/7 for the first 2 weeks. They wear paper tape for 3 months to promote a fine scar. They can shower the day after surgery. No heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for 2 weeks. Discomfort is usually easily controlled with muscle relaxors, anti-inflammatory meds, and mild narcotics if necessary.
How Long Will My Results Last?
If Patient’s surgeon has performed breast augmentation as part of this surgery then Patient will have had implants fitted. These tend to last for ten to fifteen years. Once that time has passed they will need removing or replacing. The breasts are subject to the ageing process, gravity, pregnancy and childbirth. If Patient gain or lose weight then they will also change in size and shape. So surgery may be needed again at some point in the future.
Limitations And Risks:
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Some of the potential complications of all surgeries are:
– Adverse reaction to anesthesia
– Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
– Infection and bleeding
– Changes in sensation
– Scarring
– Allergic reactions
– Damage to underlying structures
– Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures