Nearly 50% of all women have asymmetrical or uneven breasts. In most cases the difference is imperceptible. In adolescence uneven breasts can be distressing, but education and options for correction can help relieve some of the anxiety caused by this condition.
The Breast: Explained
Breasts are comprised of adipose, or fat tissue, and milk-secreting breast tissue. The breast extends from the collarbone to the rib cage and under the arm.
Beginning in adolescence in girls, estrogen secretion causes the breasts to develop. Breasts typically weigh 7 to 10 ounces. Breast development occurs over several years.
What Causes Uneven Breasts?
Common causes of uneven breasts include:
· Adolescence
· Pregnancy
· Menopause
· Weight gain/weight loss
· Tumors and Fibroids
· Skeletal issues
What is the earliest age asymmetrical breasts may be addressed?
Your plastic surgeon may recommend you be 21 years old and breast development be ongoing for more than six years. Breasts continue to develop throughout the teen years so it is advisable to wait until the breasts have fully developed. There may be some room for flexibility regarding age if the patient is younger and feels deeply affected by her condition.
Treatment options
Your plastic surgeon will make sure there are no serious health concerns before deciding on a course of treatment. There are four options to consider when correcting an imbalance in breast size.
· Reduction of the larger breast.
· Augmentation of the smaller breast with an implant.
· Reduction of the larger breast together with augmentation of the smaller breast.
· Breast augmentation surgery in conjunction with a breast lift.
You should select a plastic surgeon who is skilled both in breast reduction and augmentation.
Smokers will be required to discontinue tobacco before undergoing breast lift. If you are still in adolescence, it is preferable to wait until your breasts have stopped growing. In many cases the breasts even out on their own and no additional treatment is needed.
Recovery
You will be given a prescription for antibiotics and pain medication and scheduled for a follow-up appointment. You will be asked to refrain from heavy lifting and exercise for the first few weeks. Most patients return to their daily activities within a week following surgery. It is important to attend your follow-up appointments to make sure no health concerns have arisen and that you are healing normally.
For best results consult with an experienced and highly trained plastic surgeon, especially one with expertise in breast reduction, augmentation and lift. Dr. Eric Pugash is a member of the Canadian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Pugash is recognized for his surgical skill, customized treatment and natural results. Dr. Pugash and his friendly staff invite you to book an appointment today and begin your journey to a new look by clicking here.