Why are breast asymmetry cases common. How can breast asymmetry be diagnosed. Is breast asymmetry linked to cancer risk. What are the potential causes of breast size differences. When should you be concerned about breast asymmetry. How do hormonal changes affect breast size. What diagnostic methods are used for breast asymmetry.

The Prevalence and Causes of Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry, a condition where one breast differs in size, volume, position, or form from the other, is remarkably common. In fact, it affects more than half of all women. This natural variation in breast size and shape can be attributed to several factors:

• Hormonal changes during puberty
• Trauma to breast tissue
• Menstrual cycle fluctuations
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Aging process

How do hormonal changes influence breast size? During ovulation, breast tissue can change, often feeling fuller and more sensitive. This temporary increase in size is due to water retention and increased blood flow. However, breasts typically return to their normal size after the menstrual cycle concludes.

Juvenile Hypertrophy: A Rare Cause of Significant Asymmetry

In some cases, a condition called juvenile hypertrophy of the breast can cause one breast to grow significantly larger than the other. Although rare, this condition can lead to psychological issues and insecurities. Can juvenile hypertrophy be corrected? Yes, surgical intervention is often an effective treatment option for this condition.

Diagnosing Breast Asymmetry: From Mammograms to Advanced Imaging

While slight differences in breast size are common and usually harmless, significant asymmetry or sudden changes in breast density may warrant further investigation. How do doctors evaluate breast asymmetry?

1. Mammograms: These X-ray images of the breast are the first line of defense in detecting abnormalities.
2. Breast ultrasound: This non-invasive technique uses sound waves to produce detailed images of the breast’s internal structure.
3. Breast MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging provides highly detailed pictures of breast tissue, particularly useful for high-risk patients.
4. Biopsy: If imaging results are abnormal, a small sample of breast tissue may be removed for further testing.

Understanding Mammogram Results: The Four Categories of Asymmetry

When evaluating mammogram results, radiologists may classify breast asymmetry into four categories:

• Asymmetry: A one-dimensional difference observed in a single projection.
• Global asymmetry: A noticeable difference in overall breast density or volume.
• Focal asymmetry: A density visible in two mammographic views, but not definitively identified as a mass.
• Developing asymmetry: A significant change observed between current and previous exams.

What determines the need for additional testing? If a mammogram indicates asymmetry, especially if it’s new or has increased over time, your doctor may request further imaging to rule out potential malignancies.

The Link Between Breast Asymmetry and Cancer Risk

Is breast asymmetry always a cause for concern? Not necessarily. In most cases, breast asymmetry is a normal variation and doesn’t indicate a health problem. However, certain changes in breast symmetry may warrant closer attention.

Are asymmetric breasts a sign of cancer? While breast asymmetry alone is not a definitive indicator of cancer, some studies have shown a potential link between significant asymmetry and increased cancer risk, particularly when combined with other risk factors such as family history and age.

Ongoing Research and Future Perspectives

What does current research say about the relationship between breast asymmetry and cancer risk? Some studies have found that women with breast cancer had greater breast asymmetry compared to healthy women. However, it’s important to note that further research is needed to establish a clear connection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Breast Asymmetry

While some degree of breast asymmetry is normal, certain changes should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider:

• Sudden or significant changes in breast size or shape
• Development of lumps or masses
• Changes in skin texture or nipple appearance
• Unexplained pain or discomfort in one breast

How often should you have breast exams? For most women, annual or biennial mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 or 50, depending on individual risk factors. However, it’s essential to perform regular self-exams and report any changes to your doctor promptly.

The Psychological Impact of Breast Asymmetry

Beyond the physical aspects, breast asymmetry can have significant psychological effects, particularly in adolescents and young women. How does breast asymmetry affect self-image and confidence?

• Body image concerns
• Reduced self-esteem
• Anxiety about intimate relationships
• Difficulty finding well-fitting clothing

What support options are available for those struggling with breast asymmetry? Many healthcare providers offer counseling services or support groups for individuals dealing with body image concerns related to breast asymmetry. Additionally, some women may consider cosmetic options such as padded bras or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Treatment Options for Significant Breast Asymmetry

While slight asymmetry is typically not a cause for medical intervention, more significant cases may benefit from treatment. What options are available for correcting breast asymmetry?

1. Non-surgical options:
   • Custom-fitted bras
   • Breast forms or inserts
   • Specialized clothing
2. Surgical interventions:
   • Breast augmentation
   • Breast reduction
   • Breast lift
   • Fat grafting

How do doctors determine the best treatment approach? The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the degree of asymmetry, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help individuals explore their options and make informed decisions.

Lifestyle Factors and Breast Asymmetry

While many causes of breast asymmetry are beyond our control, certain lifestyle factors may influence breast size and shape. Can lifestyle changes affect breast symmetry?

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Significant weight fluctuations can impact breast size and symmetry.
• Exercise: Regular chest exercises may help improve muscle tone beneath the breasts, potentially enhancing overall appearance.
• Proper bra fit: Wearing well-fitted, supportive bras can help maintain breast shape and reduce discomfort associated with asymmetry.
• Smoking cessation: Smoking can affect skin elasticity, potentially exacerbating breast asymmetry over time.

What role does nutrition play in breast health? A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support overall breast health. Some studies suggest that certain foods, such as those high in phytoestrogens, may influence breast tissue, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.

The Importance of Breast Self-Awareness

Regardless of whether you have noticeable breast asymmetry, developing breast self-awareness is crucial for early detection of potential issues. How can you practice breast self-awareness?

1. Perform regular self-exams
2. Familiarize yourself with your normal breast appearance and texture
3. Note any changes throughout your menstrual cycle
4. Report any persistent changes or concerns to your healthcare provider

By understanding your own breast characteristics and staying vigilant about changes, you can play an active role in maintaining your breast health and detecting potential issues early.

Advances in Breast Imaging Technology

As medical technology continues to evolve, new imaging techniques are improving our ability to detect and diagnose breast abnormalities, including asymmetry. What are some cutting-edge breast imaging technologies?

• 3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis): Provides a more detailed view of breast tissue, reducing false positives and improving cancer detection rates.
• Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS): Offers a comprehensive view of dense breast tissue, complementing mammography results.
• Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI): Uses radioactive tracers to highlight areas of increased cellular activity, potentially indicating cancer.
• Contrast-Enhanced Spectral Mammography (CESM): Combines conventional mammography with intravenous contrast to highlight areas of increased blood flow.

How do these advanced technologies benefit patients with breast asymmetry? These imaging techniques can provide more accurate assessments of breast tissue, potentially reducing unnecessary biopsies and improving early detection of abnormalities. For women with significant asymmetry or dense breast tissue, these advanced imaging methods may offer more precise evaluations compared to standard mammography alone.

The Future of Personalized Breast Cancer Screening

As our understanding of breast cancer risk factors, including asymmetry, continues to grow, there’s a move towards more personalized screening protocols. What might future breast cancer screening look like?

• Risk-based screening schedules tailored to individual factors, including breast density and asymmetry
• Integration of artificial intelligence to assist in image interpretation and risk assessment
• Development of blood-based biomarkers for early cancer detection
• Improved genetic testing to identify high-risk individuals

These advancements may lead to more effective, efficient, and personalized breast cancer screening strategies, potentially improving outcomes for women with various breast characteristics, including asymmetry.

Breast Asymmetry Across Different Life Stages

Breast asymmetry can manifest differently throughout a woman’s life. How does breast asymmetry change with age and life events?

Adolescence and Puberty

During puberty, it’s common for breasts to develop at different rates, leading to temporary asymmetry. This difference usually resolves as development continues, but in some cases, it may persist into adulthood.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect breast size and shape, sometimes exacerbating existing asymmetry. Additionally, breastfeeding patterns may influence breast size, with the more frequently used breast potentially becoming larger.

Menopause and Beyond

As women age and go through menopause, changes in hormone levels can affect breast tissue density and composition. This may lead to changes in breast symmetry or exacerbate existing asymmetry.

How should women approach breast health at different life stages? Regular self-exams and adherence to recommended screening guidelines are crucial at all ages. However, the specific recommendations may vary based on individual risk factors and life stage.

The Role of Genetics in Breast Asymmetry

While many factors contribute to breast asymmetry, genetics may play a significant role. Do genes influence breast size and shape? Research suggests that genetic factors can indeed influence breast development, including size, shape, and potential asymmetry.

Some genetic conditions associated with breast asymmetry include:

• Poland Syndrome: A rare congenital condition characterized by underdevelopment or absence of the chest muscle on one side of the body, often affecting breast development.
• Turner Syndrome: A chromosomal disorder that can affect breast development and symmetry in females.
• Certain inherited gene mutations: Some genetic mutations associated with increased breast cancer risk may also influence breast development and symmetry.

How does understanding the genetic basis of breast asymmetry benefit patients? Recognizing the genetic factors behind breast asymmetry can help healthcare providers offer more personalized care and risk assessment. For individuals with a family history of significant breast asymmetry or related genetic conditions, genetic counseling may be recommended.

Emerging Research in Breast Genetics

Ongoing research in breast genetics may lead to new insights into the development of breast asymmetry and its potential health implications. What are some promising areas of research?

• Identification of specific genes involved in breast development and symmetry
• Understanding the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in breast asymmetry
• Development of genetic tests to predict breast cancer risk and guide screening protocols
• Exploration of gene therapies to address severe cases of breast asymmetry

As our understanding of breast genetics evolves, it may lead to more targeted approaches for managing breast asymmetry and associated health risks.

Breast Asymmetry: Causes and Diagnosis

Are asymmetric breasts a sign of cancer?

Annual or biennial mammograms are essential to a woman’s breast health because they detect early signs of cancer or abnormalities. A common abnormality seen on mammogram results is breast asymmetry.

Breast asymmetry is usually no cause for concern. However, if there’s a large variation in asymmetry or if your breast density suddenly changes, this could be an indication of cancer.

Breast asymmetry occurs when one breast has a different size, volume, position, or form from the other.

Breast asymmetry is very common and affects more than half of all women. There are a number of reasons why a woman’s breasts can change in size or volume, including trauma, puberty, and hormonal changes.

Your breast tissue can change when you’re ovulating, and can often feel more full and sensitive. It’s common for the breasts to look bigger because they actually grow from water retention and blood flow. However, during your menstrual cycle, they’ll return to normal size.

Another cause for asymmetrical breasts is a condition called juvenile hypertrophy of the breast. Though rare, this can cause one breast to grow significantly larger than the other. It can be corrected with surgery, but it may lead to a number of psychological issues and insecurities.

It’s common for two breasts to be different sizes, but they’re usually similar in density and structure. Doctors use mammograms, a type of breast exam, to evaluate the internal structure of the breast.

If your mammogram shows you have asymmetrically dense breasts, the difference in density could be classified into one of four categories if a mass is found:

1. Asymmetry. Your breasts are only evaluated using one projection. These images aren’t reliable because they are one-dimensional. Overlapping dense structures in the breast could be difficult to see. If your doctor finds a lesion or abnormality, they’ll call for another three-dimensional imaging test.
2. Global asymmetry. This finding shows there’s more volume or density in one breast than the other. Global asymmetry findings are normally the result of hormonal changes and normal variation. If a mass is found, your doctor will request additional imaging.
3. Focal asymmetry. These images show a density on two mammographic views, but your doctor can’t fully tell if it’s a true mass. They’ll request further imaging and evaluation to rule out cancerous or abnormal masses.
4. Developing asymmetry. This asymmetry type indicates a significant change between past and current exams. The density may be new, or could have increased. These findings are enough to raise suspicion of potentially malignant cells.

If your mammogram indicates asymmetry, your doctor will need additional images to determine if the change in shape or density is normal.

The first step is to compare past mammogram images for changes in shape or density. If you’ve never had asymmetric breasts or if your asymmetry has increased over time, your doctor will request extra tests.

Breast ultrasound

Your doctor may request a breast ultrasound. This method helps to diagnose abnormal findings from obscure mammogram images. A breast ultrasound uses sound waves that produce pictures of your breasts’ internal structure.

The breast ultrasound images can help determine if the mass is benign, a fluid-filled cyst, or if it’s potentially a cancerous tumor. In some cases, a mass can be both solid and fluid-filled.

Breast MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast is a test used to help detect breast cancer or other abnormalities. While in some cases this test is used after a biopsy has confirmed cancer, breast MRIs can be used alongside mammograms to screen for breast cancer.

This is specifically helpful for women with a high risk of breast cancer from family history or heredity.

Biopsy

If your imaging test results come back abnormal, or if your doctor suspects the abnormality is cancerous, the next step is to have a biopsy. During this procedure, a portion of your affected breast tissue is removed for further testing and to check for cancer.

If the biopsy comes back negative, doctors recommend regular breast exams to monitor any change. If the biopsy comes back positive, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options.

Breast asymmetry is a common characteristic for women, and is often no cause for concern. However, if the size of your breasts change or the density variation becomes larger over time, these changes could indicate something is wrong.

Research is still being conducted on the relationship between asymmetric breasts and cancer risk. Some studies have shown women with breast cancer had a greater breast asymmetry, combined with other risk factors such as heredity and age, than women who were healthy. Further research is still needed.

If you have a predisposition to cancer from family history or if you notice irregular changes in your breasts, you should discuss your concerns and options with your doctor.

Kids Health Information : Unequal breast size

It is quite common for one breast to be bigger than the other as development occurs during puberty. Usually the breasts become the same size over time and do not need any treatment. However, if the breasts have not become more or less an equal size by the age of about 16 years old (or near
the end of puberty), they will probably remain unequal. About one in four adult women have some degree of asymmetry of the breasts.

In some adolescents the problem is that one breast is overdeveloped, whereas in others the smaller breast is underdeveloped.

When to see a doctor

There is no need to see a doctor for unequal breast size during puberty (when the breasts are still developing). However, you may wish to see a GP for advice if the breasts are of unequal size at the end of puberty. You may be referred to an endocrinologist (doctor specialising in
conditions related to hormones).

Treatment for unequal breast size

There is no medical need for treatment for uneven breast size.

The difference in breast size is usually caused by the fat layers, not the ducts that produce milk. Therefore, a mother with unequal breast size should be able to breastfeed as usual from both breasts. The amounts of milk produced should be the same from each breast. 

Because the difference in breast size is usually due to the fat layers, uneven breast size has no effect on the risk of breast cancer. If you have any concerns, you should discuss this with your doctor.

There are three treatment options for uneven breast sizes that can improve the cosmetic appearance of the breasts:

External breast prosthesis

An external breast prothesis is worn with a special bra. The prothesis has a hollow on the inside where the smaller breast fits comfortably. They are filled with a skin-coloured gel and feel just like a breast. The prosthesis can be matched to the size and shape of the
other breast. 

The prosthesis can be held in place with tape that can be left on the skin for several days at a time. Some breast prostheses can be inserted into special pockets in swimsuits or active wear.

There is no health risk associated with the breast prosthesis as it is worn outside the body. 

Breast reduction

Surgery to reduce breast size is done as an operation under general anaesthetic (where you are put to sleep) by a plastic surgeon.

Breast reduction can affect milk production if breast tissue is removed. Nipple placement is also important to ensure future breast feeding goes well. Discuss all risks and benefits carefully with a plastic surgeon.

Breast implant

Breast implants are done as an operation under general anaesthetic by a plastic surgeon. Implants are now filled with saline (salt water), which is considered harmless to the body. Silicone implants are no longer used because of fears that small amounts of silicone
could leak and damage the immune system. Breast enhancement should not cause any problems with breast feeding. Discuss all risks and benefits carefully with a plastic surgeon.

Key points to remember

• It is quite common for breast size to be unequal during puberty. If they are different sizes near the end of puberty, they are likely to stay unequal. 
• There is no medical need for treatment for unequal breast size. Unequal breasts won’t affect breastfeeding or increase breast cancer risk.
• An external breast prothesis looks and feels realistic and has no associated health risks.
• A breast reduction or breast implant are plastic surgery options that can improve cosmetic appearance. 

For more information

• See your GP, paediatrician  or endocrinologist.
• Talk to a plastic surgeon to discuss treatment options.

Common questions our doctors are asked

Which is the safest option: breast reduction or breast
implant?

This is something that should be discussed at length with
your plastic surgeon. It will depend on the shape and size of each breast, as
well as your desired outcome.

I have read that unequal breast size is linked with
increased risk breast cancer. Is this true?

This is not true. The asymmetry is usually caused by
differences in the fat layers, not the breast tissue. It is important to
perform regular self-checks for breast changes, as part of a healthy lifestyle.
You can discuss and learn these self-checks with your GP or paediatrician.

My baby has developed breast tissue, which is uneven, what
should I do?

There are many hormone changes that occur to
young babies, especially those who are breastfed. May babies will develop small
amounts of breast tissue, and some may even start to make breastmilk! If this
is happening with your baby, there is often no cause for concern, but have them
seen by your GP or paediatrician.

Developed by The Royal Children’s Hospital Endocrinology and Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery departments. We acknowledge the input of RCH consumers and carers.

Reviewed June 2018.

This information is awaiting routine review. Please always seek the most recent advice from a registered and practising clinician.

Kids Health Info is supported by The Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation. To donate, visit

www.rchfoundation.org.au.

Is one breast larger or smaller than the other? Bust getting bigger?

Quite often women can observe details in their appearance that they do not suit. It can be the nose, eyes, ears, etc., but the chest is especially emphasized, as it emphasizes the figure and is the subject of sexuality. But it often happens that one breast is larger than the other.

Unfortunately, all women have breast asymmetry. For some, the difference can be a matter of millimeters, which is not considered a cause for concern. But for some, one breast may be 1-2 sizes larger than the other. This aesthetic defect is quite rare. As a rule, such a difference is due to resection (removal or partial removal) of the mammary gland. This, as a rule, causes embarrassment and anxiety for one’s health. There can be several reasons for breast asymmetry, as well as ways to solve this problem. In this article, we will look at common causes of changes in the size of the breast, as well as ways to solve them.

There may be several reasons why one breast is smaller than the other. But all of them can be divided into two groups: congenital and acquired. The first option may occur due to hormonal failure, genetic disorders or trauma at birth. Also in adolescence, girls can observe such a problem that one breast has become larger than the other. At the age of 13-16, there is no reason to worry about this, but if by the age of 17-20 the asymmetry has remained, then this is a reason to see a doctor.

As for acquired asymmetry, there are many more reasons. Mainly found:

• breast deformity during pregnancy and childbirth;
• serious damage to the mammary gland;
• disorders in the spine;
• oncology;
• consequences of surgical intervention in the chest area;
• cyst;
• fat necrosis;
• changes in hormone levels.

At the same time, breast asymmetry can be expressed in several ways:

• one breast has become lower than the other;
• significant difference in size between the right and left mammary glands;
• different location and size of nipples;
• lack of breast volume, etc.

If one breast is enlarged, you should immediately visit a mammologist to determine the cause of the deformity. At the appointment, the doctor will examine the mammary glands, prescribe an examination and, if necessary, treatment. It should also be taken into account that it is not worth delaying a visit to a specialist, because more serious diseases may occur.

Sign up for a consultation with experienced clinic specialists who have helped thousands of patients:

• Sergey Vasilievich Sidorov, oncologist-mammologist, plastic surgeon, with 40 years of experience, the author of several techniques for breast reconstruction after removal;
• Nogaytseva Ekaterina Sergeevna, oncologist-mammologist, plastic surgeon, talented doctor, helps patients to preserve their breasts, correct their shape and size;
• Ishchenko Elena Mikhailovna, oncologist-mammologist, 25 years of experience, will help maintain the health of the breast, detect the disease at an early stage, specializes in the diagnosis of malignant tumors of the mammary glands.

Correction of breast asymmetry

If one breast has become larger, and no diseases have been identified, then you can contact a plastic surgeon who will perform mammoplasty and eliminate all defects.

Today there are several ways to correct breast asymmetry:

• Breast augmentation with implants. In this way, almost any kind of asymmetry of the mammary glands can be corrected. Based on the problem, as well as the wishes of the patient, one or two implants can be installed, but of different sizes.
• Lipolifting is an excellent option for a slight increase in one breast. This procedure involves the fact that fat, which is taken from other parts of the body, is transplanted into the chest.
• Reduction mammoplasty – reduction of one breast. This operation is performed if there is a significant increase in one of the mammary glands with the normal development of the second. In this case, the installation of an implant is not required.
• Mastopexy is an excellent solution when one breast has become lower than the other. Thanks to a lift, it is possible to correct such a defect as sagging breasts, especially after breastfeeding.
• Correction of the size and shape of the nipple and areola. This procedure allows you to eliminate various defects of the nipples.
• Reconstruction of the breast after removal of the mammary gland or one-stage operation to remove a malignant tumor and restore shape and size.

If you notice that one of your breasts is smaller than the other, then this is a reason to visit a mammologist. Modern medicine will help you identify the causes of asymmetry, as well as find ways to eliminate it. Pasman Clinic employs experienced plastic surgeons who will help you restore your breasts. The plastic surgeon will offer several correction methods and recommend the best option, taking into account the state of health and characteristics of the mammary glands, the shape of the breast and the desired result.

Sign up for a consultation with experienced plastic surgeons:

• Sergei Vasilievich Sidorov, oncologist-mammologist, plastic surgeon, with 40 years of experience, the author of several techniques for breast reconstruction after removal;
• Irina Vladimirovna Shmarina, plastic surgeon, doctor with 20 years of experience, will select the best option, knows all methods of correcting the shape and size of the mammary glands;
• Nogaytseva Ekaterina Sergeevna, oncologist-mammologist, plastic surgeon, talented doctor, helps patients to preserve their breasts, adjust their shape and size.

Why patients choose the clinic and trust surgeons

Medical approach to beauty. Surgeons will help you become more confident, solve the problem and make your dream come true.

• Honest medicine – health comes first. Our doctors do not perform aesthetic surgeries if it could be harmful to health. Services are not forced. Based on the individual characteristics of the patient – use a personalized approach.
• In complex cases, we convene consultation . The internist, hematologist, gynecologist or anesthetist will discuss the patient’s health status. This will help to see the situation from different angles, which means to properly prepare the patient, draw up a safe operation plan, and choose anesthesia.
• We reduce risks – our own operating room, intensive care unit and hospital. After the operation, the patient is under the supervision of an anesthesiologist-resuscitator and a nurse in a special intensive care unit.

Breasts of different sizes (breast asymmetry): how to fix it, what to do?

Asymmetrical breasts of different sizes are one of the most common phenomena. According to statistics, 90% of girls have a difference between the right and left mammary gland, and in 45% the size of the bust differs by half a standard cup. Another question is how to deal with it? Someone notices this difference and complexes, while others perceive it as a common occurrence and do not pay attention.

So what should you do if your breasts are of different sizes? Let’s figure it out.

Why do breasts come in different sizes?

Real asymmetry, when the breasts are of different sizes and differ from each other by one cup. The reasons can be very diverse. They can be divided into 2 groups.

Congenital causes :

• hypoplasia (developmental delay) of glandular tissue
• Poland’s syndrome is a congenital disease characterized by atrophy of the pectoralis major muscle
• hormonal problems during puberty
• micromastia – one mammary gland is significantly reduced in size compared to the other
• problems with the endocrine system
• Prolonged malposition of the body resulting in poor posture
• hereditary predisposition
• special feature

Usually congenital breast asymmetry is noticeable in girls aged 9-10 years. During this period, the ovaries already produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which are responsible for the development of glandular tissue. The bust can become disproportionate if hormones are in short supply or excess. If there is disproportion, then you need to contact an endocrinologist or mammologist. Usually this problem is leveled by 18-19years. If it persists at an older age, then it can only be corrected by a plastic surgeon.

Acquired causes :

• Breastfeeding. In this case, breast asymmetry is the so-called post-lactational involution of the mammary gland, which manifests itself, among other things, in disproportion. It depends on hormonal changes, and not on the duration of lactation, as many young mothers think. However, asymmetry can indeed develop if the baby is fed only on one side.
• Mastopathy (fibroadenomatosis). Benign breast tumor. A characteristic sign of mastopathy is palpable seals in the chest. The main reason is hormonal imbalance. Often, all types of mastopathy lead to the appearance of visible asymmetry.
• Neoplasms. After their removal, the breast requires restoration.
• Sagging and drooping of the chest. With age, the mammary gland loses elasticity, volume, and the muscles become less elastic. Because of this, the bust loses its former attractiveness and symmetry. Often this happens when a woman crosses the threshold of menopause.
• Injuries of the chest. At risk are athletes who play basketball, volleyball and other sports where there is a possibility of physical injury.

Classification of breast asymmetry

It is important to understand: there is no absolute symmetry – people are asymmetrical. We have different right and left parts of the face, legs, arms and, of course, the chest. This is absolutely normal. Pathological fixation on symmetry often turns into complexes and self-doubt.

You can talk about asymmetry when it is visible to the naked eye. Differ:

• bust shape and volume
• position and outline of the nipple and areola.

Doctors distinguish 3 degrees of breast asymmetry:

• mild. Breasts practically do not differ from each other. They come in one bra size;
• medium. The difference between the mammary glands reaches 0.5 size. Visually, this is noticeable, but usually does not interfere with everyday life;
• heavy. One breast can be 1.5-2 times larger than the other. In this case, there are problems with the selection of underwear and clothing.

Note that there is no exact way to measure the asymmetry, so in this matter you should rely only on the experience of the selected specialist.

Prevention of breast asymmetry

Is it possible to prevent breast disproportion? Yes, if we are talking about acquired asymmetry. Here are some examples:

• When breastfeeding, apply the baby alternately to both breasts. Avoid “preferring” one breast. If the baby loves one breast more, then be sure to pump the second;
• wear a corrective bra to prevent sagging breasts after lactation;
• do a contrast shower to improve blood circulation;
• physical exercises will strengthen your posture and pectoral muscles.

What if the breasts are of different sizes?

It is necessary to start with an objective analysis and answer the questions: how asymmetrical are the breasts and does this affect the aesthetic appearance?

If there is a slight difference in the size of the bust, it can be corrected with underwear. It is also worth trying conservative methods – correcting posture, physical exercises to strengthen the pectoral muscles.

If the asymmetry is pronounced and causes discomfort to the girl, then it is worth contacting a plastic surgeon for surgical correction.

Can I fix the defect myself?

There are no general recommendations and universal methods for eliminating asymmetry. Everything is individual and depends on the degree of disproportion. The main methods of correction at home:

• correctly selected underwear
• drug therapy (only on the recommendation of the attending physician)

Surgical methods for correcting breasts of various shapes

Surgical correction methods differ depending on the degree of asymmetry. In such cases, the plastic surgeon offers a lift, breast augmentation or reduction.

• Breast augmentation. The most popular plastic surgery, which solves not only asymmetry issues, but also gives ideal forms. It is carried out using silicone implants. The size and volume are selected individually at the consultation. The following are taken into account: the height and weight of the patient, the initial state of the mammary gland. A plastic surgeon can install identical implants if the asymmetry is slight. With a significant difference in breast size, implants of different sizes are installed. Breast augmentation surgery lasts about 1 hour. No longer a consultation, the patient sees the result of the upcoming operation thanks to the fitting of sizers and 3D modeling.

How breast augmentation works – all stages

• Mastopexy (breast lift). Asymmetry, which is caused by significant sagging of the breast, is eliminated by removing and tightening excess skin and glandular tissue. The bust is not only tightened, but a new symmetrical shape is also created. If the difference between the mammary glands is insignificant, then a breast lift is performed using a periareolar approach around the areola. Please note: in this case, the scar is located on the border of dark and light skin, and is as invisible as possible, and there are no additional scars on the chest. With severe ptosis, either vertical mastopexy is performed (the scar runs from the areola to the inframammary fold) or anchor (the scar is located along the areola, vertically to the inframammary fold and along the line of this fold).