What causes breast asymmetry. How is breast asymmetry diagnosed. Can breast asymmetry indicate cancer. When should you be concerned about breast asymmetry. What are the treatment options for breast asymmetry. How common is breast asymmetry. How does breast asymmetry affect mammogram results.

The Prevalence and Normality of Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry is a common phenomenon affecting more than half of all women. It occurs when one breast differs from the other in size, volume, position, or form. While this variation is typically normal and harmless, understanding its causes and potential implications is crucial for overall breast health.

How common is breast asymmetry? Studies indicate that over 50% of women experience some degree of breast asymmetry. This high prevalence underscores the importance of recognizing it as a natural variation rather than an immediate cause for concern.

Factors Contributing to Breast Asymmetry

• Hormonal changes during puberty and menstrual cycles
• Trauma to breast tissue
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Natural aging process
• Genetic predisposition

Do hormonal fluctuations affect breast size? Yes, hormonal changes can significantly impact breast size and shape. During ovulation, for instance, breasts may appear larger due to increased water retention and blood flow. However, they typically return to their normal size after the menstrual cycle.

Diagnosing Breast Asymmetry: Beyond the Surface

While visible differences in breast size are often noticeable, medical professionals use various diagnostic tools to assess breast asymmetry more comprehensively. These methods help evaluate internal breast structure and density, which can provide valuable insights into overall breast health.

Mammograms: The Primary Screening Tool

Mammograms play a crucial role in detecting breast asymmetry and potential abnormalities. How do mammograms help identify breast asymmetry? These X-ray images of the breast tissue allow radiologists to evaluate the internal structure and density of each breast, revealing asymmetries that may not be visible externally.

When analyzing mammogram results, radiologists categorize breast asymmetry into four main types:

1. Asymmetry: A one-dimensional projection showing potential differences
2. Global asymmetry: Indicating more volume or density in one breast
3. Focal asymmetry: Displaying a density on two mammographic views
4. Developing asymmetry: Showing significant changes between past and current exams

Additional Diagnostic Procedures

If mammogram results indicate concerning asymmetry, healthcare providers may recommend further testing to obtain a more comprehensive evaluation. These additional diagnostic procedures can include:

• Breast ultrasound: Uses sound waves to produce detailed images of breast tissue
• Breast MRI: Provides high-resolution images to detect abnormalities
• Biopsy: Involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory analysis

How does a breast ultrasound complement mammogram findings? Breast ultrasounds can help distinguish between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts, providing valuable information about the nature of any detected abnormalities.

Breast Asymmetry and Cancer Risk: Separating Fact from Fiction

One of the most pressing concerns for many women is whether breast asymmetry indicates an increased risk of cancer. While the relationship between asymmetry and cancer risk is complex, current research provides some insights.

Does breast asymmetry automatically indicate cancer? No, breast asymmetry alone is not a definitive indicator of cancer. However, significant changes in breast asymmetry or density over time may warrant further investigation.

Recent studies have suggested a potential correlation between breast asymmetry and cancer risk, particularly when combined with other risk factors such as family history and age. However, it’s important to note that this relationship is not fully understood, and more research is needed to establish a clear link.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While breast asymmetry is often benign, certain circumstances may require medical evaluation:

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

How often should women undergo breast screenings? The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women aged 45-54, with the option to transition to biennial screenings after age 55 for those at average risk.

Juvenile Hypertrophy: A Rare Cause of Breast Asymmetry

While most cases of breast asymmetry are benign and require no intervention, some conditions can cause more pronounced differences. Juvenile hypertrophy of the breast is one such rare condition that can lead to significant asymmetry.

What is juvenile hypertrophy of the breast? This condition causes one breast to grow substantially larger than the other, typically during puberty or adolescence. Although rare, it can have both physical and psychological impacts on affected individuals.

Treatment Options for Juvenile Hypertrophy

Treatment for juvenile hypertrophy often involves surgical intervention to correct the size discrepancy between breasts. This may include breast reduction surgery on the larger breast or augmentation of the smaller breast, depending on the individual case and patient preferences.

What are the potential psychological effects of juvenile hypertrophy? The condition can lead to various psychological challenges, including:

• Low self-esteem and body image issues
• Social anxiety and difficulty in social situations
• Depression or mood disorders
• Challenges with clothing fit and physical activities

It’s crucial for individuals experiencing juvenile hypertrophy to receive comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition.

Managing Breast Asymmetry: Options and Considerations

For many women, breast asymmetry is a natural variation that requires no intervention. However, for those experiencing significant asymmetry or related psychological distress, several management options are available.

Non-Surgical Approaches

What are some non-invasive ways to address breast asymmetry?

• Custom-fitted bras or breast forms
• Padded inserts or “chicken fillets”
• Specialized clothing choices to minimize visible differences

These options can help create a more balanced appearance without the need for surgical intervention.

Surgical Interventions

In cases of more pronounced asymmetry or when non-surgical options are insufficient, surgical procedures may be considered. These can include:

• Breast augmentation of the smaller breast
• Breast reduction of the larger breast
• A combination of augmentation and reduction
• Breast lift procedures to address differences in position or shape

How do surgeons approach correcting breast asymmetry? Plastic surgeons typically aim to achieve balance and proportion rather than perfect symmetry, as some degree of asymmetry is natural and expected.

The Impact of Breast Asymmetry on Self-Image and Quality of Life

While breast asymmetry is a common and often benign condition, its impact on an individual’s self-image and quality of life can be significant. Understanding and addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for comprehensive care.

Psychological Effects of Breast Asymmetry

How does breast asymmetry affect mental health and well-being? The psychological impact can vary widely among individuals but may include:

• Decreased self-confidence and body image issues
• Anxiety about intimate relationships
• Difficulty finding well-fitting clothing
• Avoidance of certain social situations or activities

It’s important to recognize that these psychological effects are valid and deserving of attention and support.

Coping Strategies and Support

What resources are available for individuals struggling with breast asymmetry? Several avenues of support can be helpful:

• Counseling or therapy to address body image concerns
• Support groups for individuals with breast asymmetry
• Educational resources about breast health and normal variations
• Open communication with healthcare providers about concerns and options

Developing a strong support network and positive coping strategies can significantly improve quality of life for those affected by breast asymmetry.

Breast Asymmetry Throughout the Lifespan: Changes and Considerations

Breast asymmetry is not a static condition; it can evolve throughout a woman’s life due to various factors. Understanding these changes can help individuals better monitor their breast health and know when to seek medical attention.

Puberty and Adolescence

How does breast development affect asymmetry during puberty? During breast development, it’s common for one breast to grow faster or larger than the other. This asymmetry often resolves as development continues, but in some cases, it may persist into adulthood.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy and breastfeeding can significantly impact breast size and shape, potentially exacerbating or creating new asymmetries. These changes are often temporary, but some may persist after breastfeeding is completed.

Menopause and Aging

How does menopause affect breast asymmetry? Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to changes in breast tissue, potentially altering the degree of asymmetry. Additionally, the natural aging process can affect breast shape and position, which may impact perceived asymmetry.

Regular breast self-exams and scheduled mammograms become increasingly important as women age to monitor these changes and detect any potential abnormalities.

Advances in Breast Imaging and Asymmetry Detection

As technology continues to evolve, new advancements in breast imaging are improving the detection and evaluation of breast asymmetry. These innovations are enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses and providing more detailed information about breast tissue.

3D Mammography (Tomosynthesis)

How does 3D mammography differ from traditional mammograms? 3D mammography, also known as breast tomosynthesis, creates multiple thin-slice images of the breast tissue. This technology allows radiologists to examine breast tissue layer by layer, potentially revealing abnormalities that might be hidden in traditional 2D mammograms.

Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS)

Automated Breast Ultrasound systems provide a standardized, comprehensive ultrasound examination of the entire breast. This technology is particularly useful for women with dense breast tissue, where mammograms may be less effective in detecting abnormalities.

Artificial Intelligence in Breast Imaging

How is AI being used in breast cancer screening? Artificial intelligence algorithms are being developed to assist radiologists in interpreting mammograms and other breast images. These AI tools can help identify potential abnormalities and assess asymmetries more accurately, potentially leading to earlier detection of breast cancer.

While these technological advancements are promising, it’s important to remember that they complement rather than replace the expertise of trained healthcare professionals.

Breast Asymmetry in the Context of Overall Breast Health

While understanding breast asymmetry is important, it’s crucial to view it as just one aspect of overall breast health. Maintaining breast health involves a comprehensive approach that goes beyond monitoring asymmetry.

Holistic Breast Health Practices

What steps can women take to promote overall breast health?

• Regular self-exams to familiarize oneself with normal breast tissue
• Adhering to recommended screening schedules based on age and risk factors
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet
• Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking
• Being aware of family history and genetic risk factors

The Importance of Open Communication with Healthcare Providers

How can patients effectively communicate with their doctors about breast health concerns? Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is essential for optimal breast health. This includes:

• Reporting any changes in breast appearance or sensation promptly
• Discussing family history and potential risk factors
• Asking questions about screening recommendations and results
• Expressing any concerns or anxieties about breast health

By fostering a collaborative relationship with healthcare providers, individuals can ensure they receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs and risk profile.

Future Directions in Breast Asymmetry Research and Care

As our understanding of breast asymmetry continues to evolve, ongoing research is exploring new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. These emerging areas of study hold promise for improving breast health outcomes and patient care.

Genetic Factors in Breast Asymmetry

How might genetic research impact our understanding of breast asymmetry? Scientists are investigating the genetic underpinnings of breast development and asymmetry. This research could potentially lead to:

• Identification of genetic markers associated with increased asymmetry
• Better prediction of individuals at risk for significant asymmetry
• Development of targeted interventions based on genetic profiles

Personalized Medicine Approaches

The field of personalized medicine is increasingly relevant to breast health, including the management of asymmetry. Future approaches may include:

• Tailored screening protocols based on individual risk factors and asymmetry patterns
• Customized treatment plans that consider both physical and psychological aspects of asymmetry
• Integration of advanced imaging techniques with genetic and lifestyle data for comprehensive risk assessment

Improving Patient Education and Support

What role does patient education play in managing breast asymmetry? Enhancing patient education and support systems is crucial for improving outcomes. Future initiatives may focus on:

• Developing more accessible and comprehensive educational resources about breast asymmetry
• Creating support networks and peer mentoring programs for individuals with significant asymmetry
• Integrating mental health support into breast health care plans

By continuing to advance our understanding of breast asymmetry and improving patient care approaches, we can work towards better outcomes and quality of life for individuals affected by this common condition.

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).