Correction of breast asymmetry
It is normal to have breasts of slightly different size and
shape. However, in some women the difference can be significant and
cause considerable psychological and emotional distress. There are
a variety of surgical procedures available that may help you if you
have breast asymmetry.
What does it involve?
The different operations that are possible include breast
reductions, breast uplifts, breast implants, inflatable breast
implants (expanders), or a combination, such as breast uplift and
implant placement. The operation(s) and options appropriate for you
will be discussed with you by Mr Pacifico after a careful clinical
examination. Occasionally two or three operations may be needed,
spaced apart. This, for example, may include the use of an expander
implant to slowly enlarge the smaller breast, followed a year later
by a replacement of the expander with a silicone implant, and
adjustment of the larger breast to match (for example by performing
a combination uplift and implant procedure - an augmentation
mastopexy). Alternatively, reducing both breasts in size by
different amounts may be more appropriate. At the end of the day,
everyone is different, and the correct procedure needs to be
individualised.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of breast asymmetry surgery are to match your
breasts as closely as possible: not only in terms of volume, but
also in terms of shape and nipple size and position.
How long does the surgery take?
The length of surgery depends on what procedure(s) you are
having done. Please refer to the individual information pages on
the specific procedure for more information.
What is the recovery period?
Following most surgery to your breasts, you should go straight
into wearing a supportive post-operative or sports bra which you
should continue wearing day and night for 6-weeks. After the
surgery the wound will be dressed with medical tape. This is
splash-proof and shower-proof but not bath-proof. You will be able
to shower from the day after surgery, and dab the tape dry with a
clean towel, kitchen towel or alternatively use a hair-dryer on a
cold setting to dry the tapes. You will be able to return to
sedentary activity (i.e. an office job or light duties) within
2-weeks, depending upon how you feel and the procedures you have
undergone.
How long before daily activities may be resumed?
You should avoid all heavy physical activity and contact sports
for 6-weeks following the surgery to prevent damage to your
breasts. Mr Pacifico, however, recommends that you do light
shoulder exercises after the surgery to prevent you from getting
stiff. In fact, the best way to start is to wash your own hair the
day after the surgery. This also has the added benefit of making
you feel much better!
What are the success rates?
The operations have a high success rate, but, as everyone is
different, the likely outcome you will obtain will be discussed
directly with you.
Patient with breast asymmetry who underwent differential
breast implant correction. On the left a 230cc low profile
anatomical implant was used, and on the right a 380cc high profile
anatomical implant was used.
What are the possible complications?
Please see the specific procedure information sheets for details
of the possible complications.