Breast Asymmetry Surgery Melbourne

Breast Asymmetry refers to a condition in which one breast differs in size, shape, and/or position from the other. While slight Breast Asymmetry is a common and typically normal variation, greater differences can lead to individuals exploring breast surgery options to address asymmetrical breasts.

Asymmetric Breast Surgery – Breast Shaping for Uneven Breasts in Melbourne, VIC

Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to address differences in the size, shape, or positioning of the breasts.

This surgical approach aims to get more symmetrical breasts. Through techniques, such as breast augmentation, lift, reduction, or a combination (for example breast reduction on one breast and breast augmentation on the other).

DISCLAIMER: The outcomes shown are only relevant for these patients and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Breast Asymmetry Surgery Melbourne - 1

Breasts are often asymmetrical to some degree. Minor variations are common and considered normal. However, while many women might not notice these differences, for others, there can be dissimilarity between their breasts. This variation can be a result of several factors including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, puberty, or even past trauma.

Extensive breast asymmetry can extend beyond appearance. It may cause discomfort. In such instances, surgery to address asymmetry may help to alter symmetry and balance.

The surgical approach your surgeon chooses might differ for each breast in order to get a suitable outcome.

Who is a suitable candidate for Breast Asymmetry Surgery?

A list of factors that make someone a suitable candidate for breast asymmetry surgery:

  1. Noticeable Asymmetry: Individuals with a noticeable difference in breast size, shape, or position between the two breasts.
  2. Physical Discomfort: Those experiencing physical discomfort or discomfort due to the asymmetry, such as back, neck, or shoulder pain.
  3. Psychological Distress: Individuals who experience psychological distress due to breast asymmetry.
  4. Fully Developed Breasts: Candidates should have fully developed breasts after the age of 18.
  5. Healthy Lifestyle: Being in good overall health is important for a surgical procedure and the recovery.
  6. Realistic Expectations: Patients who have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.
  7. Non-Smoker: Non-smokers or individuals who can commit to quitting smoking for a specified period before and after the surgery, as smoking can interfere with healing.
  8. Stable Weight: Candidates should have a stable weight, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the results of the surgery.
  9. Consultation: Those who have consulted with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss their concerns, goals, and expectations and have received personalised recommendations.

It’s important to note that each individual’s situation is unique, and a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine their candidacy for breast asymmetry surgery.

Types of Breast Asymmetry

There are many potential causes of breast asymmetry that lead to different types of asymmetry. Some common types of breast asymmetry include;

  • Volume Asymmetry: One breast is visibly larger or smaller than the other, resulting in uneven breast size.
  • Shape Asymmetry: The breasts have different shapes, with one being rounder or more conical than the other.
  • Position Asymmetry: The breasts sit at different heights on the chest wall, with one appearing higher or lower than the other.
  • Nipple/Areola Complex Asymmetry: One nipple or areola is larger, smaller, higher, or lower than the corresponding one on the other breast.
  • Breast Crease (Inframammary Fold) Asymmetry: The fold beneath the breast, where it meets the chest wall, is positioned differently on each breast.
  • Chest Wall Asymmetry: Differences the chest wall behind the breasts can contribute to uneven breast development.
  • Scoliosis-Related Asymmetry: Scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine, can lead to uneven shoulder height and breast appearance.
  • Poland Syndrome: A rare condition where there is underdevelopment or absence of chest muscles and breast tissue on one side of the body.
  • Effects of Past Surgery: Previous breast surgeries, such as augmentation, reduction, or mastectomy, can result in residual asymmetry.
  • Iatrogenic Causes: Asymmetry due to medical procedures or treatments, such as radiation therapy or breast cancer surgery.

These types of breast asymmetry can vary in severity and combination, and individuals may experience one or more of these asymmetry factors. Consulting with a skilled plastic surgeon is essential to determine the specific type of asymmetry and develop a suitable treatment plan.

What are the Surgical Options for Breast Asymmetry?

Because both breasts are different, different approaches may be required for each breast. Your surgeon may suggest; Making the smaller breast bigger, the bigger breast smaller, making both breasts smaller or both breasts bigger.

The surgery options for breast asymmetry are tailored to address the specific type and extent of asymmetry present as well as the outcome wanted. For specific procedure information go to the relevant procedure page.

Some common surgical approaches include:

Breast Augmentation

  • If one breast is smaller than the other, breast augmentation with implants can be performed on the smaller breast to increase size and volume.
  • Alternatively if the patient wants to increase the size of their breasts different sized implants can be used to increase volume of both breasts.

Breast Reduction

If one breast is larger than the other, a reduction can be performed on the larger breast.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

If one breast is lower on the chest than the other, a breast lift can be performed to raise the breast.

Nipple/Areola Correction

For nipple or areola complex asymmetry, surgical techniques can adjust the size, position, or height of the nipple and areola.

Combination Procedures

Often, a combination of procedures is done to address multiple aspects of breast asymmetry. For example, a breast augmentation on one side and a lift on the other side.

Fat Transfer

In some cases, fat can be harvested from one part of the body and injected into the smaller breast.

Every patient’s situation is unique. A plastic surgeon will assess the type of asymmetry and create a tailored surgical plan. The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the patient’s goals, overall health, existing breast condition, and the surgeon’s assessment. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine the most suitable surgery options for breast asymmetry.

Recovery After Breast Asymmetry correction surgery

Recovery after breast asymmetry surgery typically involves discomfort, bruising and swelling. The surgeon will provide patients with pain medication and a supportive bra during the initial healing period.

Most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks of surgery, but it’s advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for at least four to six weeks. Furthermore, patients should get the all clear from their surgeon before resuming physical activities.

While initial results will be visible, it can take several months for the final outcome to fully emerge as swelling gradually subsides.

It is vital patients strictly adhere to post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments for recovery and results.

For more on recovery visit our Recovery Tips page.

Risks and Complications of Breast Asymmetry correction Surgery

All surgical procedures, including breast asymmetry correction surgery, inherently carry certain risks and potential complications.

Risks and complications associated with breast asymmetry correction surgery can include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring
  • Anaesthesia Complications
  • Asymmetry
  • Changes in Sensation
  • Implant Issues
    • Rupture
    • Capsular contracture
    • Deflation
    • Malposition.
  • Hematoma
  • Seroma
  • Delayed Wound Healing
  • Nipple or Tissue Necrosis
  • Need for Revision Surgery
  • Anesthetic Risks
  • Unsatisfactory Results

During a thorough consultation, a qualified surgeon will openly discuss the specific risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. This comprehensive discussion allows patients to make informed decisions about their treatment, weigh the benefits against the risks, and understand the measures taken to minimise any adverse outcomes. This emphasis on patient education and open communication underscores the commitment of experienced surgeons to prioritise patient safety.

All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of breast asymmetry surgery, please visit the risks of surgery page.

Minimising Scars after Breast Asymmetry Surgery?

Our team offers a range of techniques to aid your recovery, improve your surgical results and reduce scars.

  • Special bandages, tapes and gels to aid healing
  • Healite II – LED treatment of healing scars
  • At around 8 weeks, we can arrange for Fraxel Laser Treatment of scars to aid healing
  • A selection of special bras may also support your recovery
  • We also provide special ‘Recovery Packs’

All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of breast asymmetry surgery, please visit the risks of surgery page.

Planning corrective Breast Surgery

Thorough pre-operative planning and customised procedures are critical. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeons recommend extensive planning as such, they typically require detailed assessment measurements and may require certain pre-surgery examinations or tests, which may include; Breast volumetric tests, Computer-generated modelling with Vectra 3D and/or MRI imaging studies.

Our Surgeons that preform Breast Asymmetry Surgery

The team of plastic surgeons at Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery have experience in conducting various breast surgeries.

Dr Craig Rubinstein has experience with breast asymmetry surgery although depending on the level of asymmetry other surgeons may also be suitable. Dr Craig Rubinstein wrote an entire Chapter on Breast Asymmetries in the textbook Surgery of the Breast.

Cost of Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgery

The cost of breast asymmetry correction surgery can vary depending on several factors. These factors include; the specific type of procedure or combination of procedures, the surgeon’s fees, the facility fees, anesthesia costs, and any additional medical tests or consultations required.

During a consultation with one of our specialist plastic surgeons, you will receive a personalised quote that outlines the expected costs associated with your individual case. This quote will cover the surgeon’s fee, facility expenses, anesthesia charges, and any other relevant costs. It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the financial aspects of the procedure and to clarify what is included in the provided quote.

Surgery Case Studies

Before and After Images of Plastic Surgery to Correct Breast Asymmetry

All image rights reserved by Dr Craig Rubinstein.

*Disclaimer: Individual results can vary significantly from patient to patient. All invasive surgery has risks. Read more about surgical outcome variability on our Disclaimer Page.

Asymmetric Breast Reduction (early recovery phase – 8 weeks) – Images

Asymmetric Breast Reduction

Right Mastopexy (Breast Lift) and Left Breast Reduction (Early recovery phase – 8 weeks) – Images

 Mastopexy and Breast Reduction

Please contact us using the form below to arrange a consultation with one of our Specialist Plastic Surgeons or to speak with our Patient Care Team on (03) 8849 1400

Breast Asymmetry Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Which procedures can help with different sized breasts and uneven nipple locations or elongated nipple shapes?

  • It varies. Some women may have breast augmentation using different sized breast implants.
  • Other women may have Breast Lift either with an augmentation or on its own.
  • While others may opt for a Breast Reduction/Lift, with slightly different amounts of reduction on one side of the chest than on the other side.

How many women have asymmetric breasts?

  • Having Asymmetric Breasts is common.
  • More than 25% of all women have noticeable asymmetry that concerns them.

Is surgery for uneven breast sizes COSMETIC in nature or medically-indicated?

  • Asymmetry of the breast area is primarily cosmetic rather than a physical one.
  • However uneven breast shapes and sizes can have health-related implications
  • Corrective surgery for severe asymmetry of the breasts or nipples may be medically necessary and it may be elligble for a Medicare Rebate. However, you must meet specific criteria. Furthermore, you will still incur out of pocket costs.

Further Reading – Medical References

 
Dr Craig Rubinstein
Dr Broughton Snell
Dr Stephen Kleid
Dr Gary Kode

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001124843

Dr Craig Rubinstein

Dr Craig Rubinstein is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Hawthorn East, Melbourne. With over 20 years of surgical experience especially in all areas of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, but particularly in breast surgery. These include Breast Augmentation and Breast Reduction as well as Breast Surgery Revision.

Furthermore, he believes that surgical customisation, precision planning and technical expertise help him to provide optimal surgical outcomes for his patients.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001190266

Dr Broughton Snell

Dr Broughton Snell is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. His training in Plastic Surgery took place in Australia and the United States of America (USA).

Dr Snell is a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon having completed his Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Surgeon MED0001052799

Dr Stephen Kleid

Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Melbourne with a passion for Septo-rhinoplasty, Septoplasty, as well as, a strong interest in Rhinoplasty Revision.

Dr Kleid trained at Melbourne University, then completed surgical training at various hospitals including Royal Melbourne, Royal Children’s, The Eye and Ear and St Vincents. He worked as a surgeon at the University of Florida Medical school for further experience.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001405964

Dr Gary Kode

Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, with experience in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as non-surgical treatments.

Dr Kode is a member of several organisations, including the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), The International Confederation for Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, and he holds a Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

What to do next?

Our Patient Liaison Team can assist with any questions you may have when considering a procedure. You can send in an enquiry form below or call our Melbourne Clinic between 9 am – 5 pm Monday - Friday.

Disclaimer: Results depend on individual patient circumstances and can vary significantly. Results may also be impacted by a variety of factors including your lifestyle, weight, nutritional intake and overall health. Consult your Specialist Plastic Surgeon for details. This information is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your Surgeon.