Breast asymmetry is more common than most people realise, though the degree of difference can vary greatly from one person to another. For some, the variation is subtle and barely noticeable, while for others, it can be more significant – enough to affect clothing fit or make one side appear visibly different in size or shape. The term “breast asymmetry” simply refers to when the breasts differ in size, volume, position, or even the shape of the nipple and areola. There are several reasons this can occur, and just as many ways it can be addressed, depending on what’s contributing to the difference.
What causes breast asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry can develop for several reasons, and not all are related to underlying health conditions. In most cases, it’s completely natural and starts to appear during puberty as the breasts develop at different rates. This can continue into adulthood and, for some, remain unchanged throughout life.
Hormonal changes are another common factor. The breasts are particularly sensitive to hormones, so fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can affect their size and fullness unevenly. In other cases, weight changes or breastfeeding can lead to one breast holding slightly more tissue or glandular density than the other.
Some patients experience asymmetry as a result of previous surgery or trauma. For instance, breast surgery on one side (such as a lumpectomy, reduction, or augmentation) can leave a visible difference compared to the untreated breast. Structural factors like chest wall shape or spine curvature can also contribute to the appearance of unevenness, as they can make one side appear more projected or positioned differently.
How is breast asymmetry assessed?
If you’re considering surgical correction, the first step is always an assessment with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, your surgeon will look at several physical factors – the volume of each breast, the position of the nipple and areola, the amount of natural breast tissue, and the condition of the skin. They’ll also assess your chest wall and muscle structure, since these can influence the overall shape and how symmetrical your results can be.
Accurate assessment often involves taking measurements and photographs to evaluate proportions and guide surgical planning. It’s also important that the underlying cause of the asymmetry is clear. For example, if the difference developed suddenly or after a certain event, imaging tests like ultrasound or mammography may be recommended before proceeding with any surgical plan.
What surgical options are available?
The treatment approach depends on the extent and cause of the asymmetry, as well as your own anatomy. Surgical correction can involve one or both breasts, and the techniques used can vary significantly.
Breast augmentation is a common option for patients who have one breast smaller than the other. In this case, a single implant may be placed to match the size and shape of the larger breast, or implants may be used in both breasts for better symmetry. The choice of implant size, profile, and placement is tailored to each patient to create a more even result.
For others, a breast reduction may be the preferred approach if one breast is larger. This involves removing tissue, fat, and skin from the larger side to match the smaller one. Reduction surgery can also include lifting the breast to adjust its position if one side sits lower than the other.
In some cases, a combination of augmentation and reduction is required – for example, placing a small implant in one breast and reducing the other. This allows the surgeon to balance both volume and shape more precisely.
Another approach, known as a breast lift (mastopexy), may be used if the size difference isn’t significant but one breast sits lower. This procedure adjusts the skin and tissue to lift the breast higher on the chest, often repositioning the nipple to match the opposite side.
What about fat grafting for breast asymmetry?
Fat grafting, sometimes called fat transfer, can be used either on its own or in combination with other procedures to correct smaller asymmetries. It involves taking fat from another area of the body through liposuction, purifying it, and injecting it into the breast that needs volume adjustment.
This method allows for fine-tuning, as the surgeon can control the placement and amount of fat added. However, fat grafting is better suited for subtle differences in volume rather than larger corrections. Some of the transferred fat may not survive the process, so more than one session might be needed to achieve the desired symmetry.
How long do results from breast asymmetry surgery last?
Results from surgical correction are generally long-lasting, but it’s important to remember that natural changes will still occur over time. Factors like ageing, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and hormonal changes can continue to affect breast tissue and skin elasticity.
Implants do not have an expiration date but may need to be replaced in the future if a complication develops, such as a rupture or capsular contracture. If fat grafting is used, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time, but what remains typically stays permanently.
Surgeons usually monitor patients with routine follow-ups to ensure that the breasts remain healthy and symmetrical as the body changes naturally over the years.
Is breast asymmetry surgery suitable for everyone?
Surgical correction isn’t suitable for everyone, and determining suitability depends on several factors. Patients should be in good general health and at a stable weight, as significant fluctuations can affect results. It’s also important that the breasts have fully developed before surgery is performed.
If you’re considering implants, your surgeon will discuss factors like breast tissue thickness, chest width, and implant size to ensure that the placement looks balanced. If a reduction or lift is being considered, the quality of your skin and its ability to heal are also taken into account.
For those who have had previous breast surgery, additional planning may be needed to work around existing scars or changes to the tissue. Every surgical plan is highly individualised to achieve a more balanced appearance that aligns with your anatomy.
What to expect when planning breast asymmetry correction
When planning this type of procedure, clear communication with your surgeon is essential. They will guide you through the different surgical approaches and recommend what’s most suitable for your body and level of asymmetry. You’ll also discuss incision placement, scar location, and the likely recovery timeline.
Measurements, photographs, and possibly imaging will help create a clear plan that takes into account how your natural breast tissue and skin elasticity will respond to surgery. The goal is to achieve a result that feels proportionate and stable over time.
Perth Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Anh Nguyen
If you are researching your options for correcting breast asymmetry, it can be helpful to arrange a consultation with a qualified surgeon who regularly performs this type of procedure. A thorough assessment will provide clarity about the techniques available and what kind of results you can expect. A well-planned and technically considered approach is the most reliable way to achieve a more symmetrical breast shape that suits your body.
Based in Perth, Dr Anh is a qualified and experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
In March 2023, she was inducted into the Western Australia Women’s Hall of Fame for her contribution to the healthcare system. She also received a Highly Commended at the MyFaceMyBody Awards 2017 for Best Plastic Surgeon and was named Best Medispa of the Year Australasia.
To schedule a consultation, please get in touch with our team.
