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Female Plastic Surgeon

Tuberous Breast Correction Perth

Tuberous breast correction is a surgical procedure to address the distinct characteristics of tuberous breasts, which may include a narrow or elongated shape, enlarged areolas, and breast asymmetry. These features typically develop during puberty and can affect one or both breasts to varying degrees.

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Why You may Consider this Surgery

Correct-Previous-Implants-img - Breast implant removal page icon 1 Add Volume
create-symmetry-img - Tuberous breast correction icon 1 Create Symmetry
reshape-breasts-img - Breast reduction page icon Address Breast Shape
lift-the-breast-img - Breast asymmetry correction icon 1 Lift the breast

Reasons for Having Tuberous Breast Correction

Patients may seek tuberous breast correction for a range of reasons, including addressing physical discomfort or making changes to the breasts’ shape, symmetry, or proportionality. Motivations for surgery are highly personal and vary based on individual needs and preferences.

Dr Anh Nguyen focuses on understanding each patient’s reasons for considering this procedure. During consultations, a supportive and professional environment is provided to discuss concerns and explore available options. Detailed information about the procedure is shared to help patients make an informed decision that aligns with their goals and well-being.

Dr Anh Nguyen’s Approach to Tuberous Breast Correction

Dr Anh Nguyen’s approach to tuberous breast correction is centred on creating a personalised treatment plan that respects each patient’s unique anatomy and objectives. Recognising the physical and emotional impact of tuberous breasts, Dr Nguyen prioritises open communication, empathy, and professionalism throughout the process.

A tailored plan is developed based on the patient’s anatomical needs and the specific changes being considered. Dr Nguyen avoids a one-size-fits-all approach, instead focusing on utilising surgical techniques that align with the patient’s body proportions and preferences. The process also addresses emotional and psychological well-being, ensuring patients feel informed and supported at every stage.

The Surgical Process

The surgical process begins with a thorough assessment of breast anatomy, including the specific characteristics of tuberous breasts. Based on this evaluation, Dr Anh Nguyen discusses the most suitable techniques, which may include reshaping the breast tissue, reducing the size of the areolas, or augmenting with implants or fat transfer to increase volume.

Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, with techniques chosen to achieve changes that align with the patient’s overall body proportions. Dr Nguyen pays meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the surgical plan addresses the patient’s specific concerns while maintaining safety and precision.

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Reshaping the breast

Implants of different sizes are used to balance the volume between the breasts.

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Reduce the areola size

Tissue is removed from the larger breast to achieve symmetry.

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Augment with implants

The position of one or both breasts is elevated to match their height and contour.

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Augment with fat transfer

Fat harvested from the patient’s body is used to add volume to one breast, creating a more even appearance.

Aftercare and Recovery

Aftercare and recovery are vital components of the tuberous breast correction process. Patients are provided with detailed post-operative instructions, including guidance on managing discomfort, caring for incisions, and resuming activities gradually. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Dr Anh Nguyen and her team are available to support patients throughout the recovery process, ensuring they feel informed and cared for during this critical phase. Open communication is encouraged to address any questions or challenges that may arise.

Risks Associated with the Procedure

As with any surgical procedure, tuberous breast correction involves potential risks, including:

  • Reactions to anaesthesia
  • Changes in breast or nipple sensation
  • Infection at incision sites
  • Visible scarring
  • Asymmetry in breast shape or volume
  • Bleeding (haematoma)
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)
  • Potential need for further surgery

Dr Anh Nguyen adheres to rigorous safety protocols to minimise these risks. During consultations, all potential complications are discussed in detail to ensure patients are fully informed before deciding to proceed with the surgery.

Tuberous Breast Correction FAQs

What are tuberous breasts?

Tuberous breasts are a developmental difference in breast shape that becomes noticeable during puberty. They are also called tubular or constricted breasts. Common features include a narrow breast base, a high crease under the breast, little fullness in the lower half, and an enlarged or puffy areola where tissue pushes forward. There is often a difference between the two sides. One or both breasts can be affected, and the features range from mild to marked.

What causes tuberous breasts?

The exact cause of tuberous breasts is not known. Medical research describes a tight band of fibrous tissue at the base of the breast, most often in the lower half, which limits outward growth during puberty. The developing tissue then grows forward towards the areola instead, which creates the typical narrow, projecting shape. Tuberous breasts are a variation in development and are not caused by anything a person has done.

How do I know if I have tuberous breasts?

Tuberous breasts are diagnosed by a doctor during a physical examination, usually your GP or a Specialist Plastic Surgeon. The assessment looks at the width of the breast base, the position of the breast crease, fullness in the lower half, areola size and the difference between sides. Tuberous breasts are not the same as small breasts, and larger breasts can also have tuberous features. Measurements and photographs are usually recorded as part of the assessment.

Are there different grades of tuberous breasts?

Yes, surgeons use classification systems to describe how much of the breast is affected. The von Heimburg system uses four types. The Grolleau system uses three: type I affects the lower inner part of the breast, type II affects the whole lower half, and type III affects all four quadrants. The grade helps guide planning, but your options also depend on your skin, breast volume, areola size and symmetry.

Why is a standard breast augmentation not always enough for tuberous breasts?

A breast implant on its own may not release the tight breast base or lower the high breast crease. When these features are not addressed, the original shape can still show over the implant. Some patients develop a “double bubble” contour, where the breast tissue and implant sit at different levels. For this reason, tuberous breast correction often combines several steps, such as releasing or reshaping the breast tissue and reducing the areola.

Can tuberous breasts be corrected without implants?

Some tuberous breasts can be corrected without implants, depending on how tight the tissue is, how much volume is needed and your goals. Options may include reshaping the breast tissue, lowering the breast crease, reducing the areola, a breast lift, or fat transfer using your own fat. Fat transfer has limits in tuberous breasts. The tight tissue can restrict how much fat can be added, some fat is reabsorbed, and more than one session may be needed.

Is tuberous breast correction done in one operation or two?

Many tuberous breast corrections are planned as a single operation, but some need two stages. A staged approach may be suggested when the skin and tissue are very tight or there is a large difference between the breasts. In the first stage, a temporary tissue expander may be placed and gradually filled. It is then exchanged for an implant in a second operation. The likely number of operations is discussed during consultation.

Is tuberous breast correction covered by Medicare?

Medicare may contribute to tuberous breast correction in some cases, but not all. The Medicare Benefits Schedule includes items for correcting developmental breast abnormalities. Eligibility depends on specific criteria, which can include a measured difference in breast volume and documented photographs or imaging. Whether an item applies is assessed individually after examination. Out-of-pocket costs usually remain, so check with Medicare and your private health fund before surgery.

Do I need a referral for tuberous breast correction?

Yes, you need a referral from your GP or another medical specialist before your first consultation with Dr Anh Nguyen, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Rivervale, Perth. A valid referral is also needed to claim Medicare rebates. Where surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons, adults have a cooling-off period of at least seven days after giving consent. Patients under 18 have a cooling-off period of at least three months and must first be assessed by an independent psychologist, psychiatrist or GP.

Can I breastfeed if I have tuberous breasts?

Many people with tuberous breasts can give some breast milk, but some cannot produce a full supply. Tuberous breasts can be linked with less milk-making tissue, and one study found breastfeeding was less successful in the most severe type. Surgery around the areola and breast tissue may also affect milk supply or nipple sensation. Breastfeeding cannot be guaranteed before or after correction, so raise it at your consultation. A lactation consultant can help after birth.

What is recovery like after tuberous breast correction?

Recovery depends on which techniques are combined, such as tissue release, areola reduction, a lift, implants or fat transfer. Swelling, tightness and some discomfort are expected at first. You will usually wear a support bra and avoid lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks. Fat transfer also means healing where the fat was taken from. If a tissue expander is used, there are extra visits and a second recovery. Breast shape takes months to settle.

What are the risks specific to tuberous breast correction?

Tuberous breast correction carries general surgical risks, plus some that relate to the condition itself. The constricted shape may persist or partly return, some asymmetry may remain, the areola can stretch again, and scars around the areola may widen. With implants, risks include a “double bubble” contour, implant position changes and capsular contracture. Fat transfer can cause lumps or uneven results. Further surgery is sometimes needed, and your risks are discussed before you consent.

The information on this page is general in nature and does not replace individual medical advice. All surgical procedures carry risks. Results vary between individuals and depend on factors such as anatomy, general health and healing. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. Medicare and private health insurance eligibility is assessed individually and cannot be confirmed before a consultation. A referral from your GP or another medical specialist is required. Dr Anh Nguyen, Specialist Plastic Surgeon, MED0001193810.

MED0001193810

Dr Anh Nguyen

MBBS (HONS) PGRADDIPSURGANAT FRACS (PLAST)

Dr. Anh Nguyen is a member of several esteemed professional organisations, underscoring her commitment to the highest standards of surgical and patient care. Some of her affiliations and recognitions include:

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(08) 9322 2659

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