Everybody has a degree of asymmetry or difference between their left and right breasts, although in certain patients this is more pronounced and noticeable than most.
Treatment of these conditions can be one of the most challenging but satisfying procedures for both patient and surgeon alike and Mr Foo has a special interest in performing this type of corrective surgery.
Development of the female breast
The first signs of breast development appear during adolescence. The ovaries produce oestrogen, which stimulate breast development. Fat accumulates in the breast and ducts begin to develop, causing the breast to enlarge. This is accompanied by other changes of secondary sexual development such as the growth of body hair and the alteration of body shape. When ovulation and menstruation occur, the breasts continue to grow and glandular tissue, lobules develop. The rate of breast development varies between individuals.
In some cases, there is lack of development (Breast Hypoplasia), constricted or Tuberous Breasts or Breast Asymmetry. Women hide or camouflage this by wearing padded bras, bra inserts and loose fitting clothes. Teenagers with significant asymmetry are usually very self-
In Breast Hypoplasia, there is lack of breast development during puberty. The adolescent breast remains largely unchanged or enlarges only slightly. Women often complain of a "boyish" appearance.
What can be done to correct Breast Hypoplasia?
There is little breast tissue and the skin envelope is too small to accept a breast implant (as in breast augmentation). In this situation, an expander-
As the name suggests, the breast is like a "tube", it is shaped like a narrow cone with a small, constricted base, a tubular skin envelope and a prominent and large nipple areolar. This condition may occur in both breasts to a different degree or just to one side. The other breast may be large, droopy and also slightly misshapened.
What can be done to correct Tuberous Breasts?
The most effective way of correcting Tuberous Breasts is by using the expansion technique using an expander-
In Breast Asymmetry, there can be a difference in the size of the breast, the shape and also the position of the nipple to a varying degree. There may be under-
What can be done to correct Breast Asymmetry?
For small degrees of asymmetry, where the main difference is size (volume), different size breast implants could be used.
However, using an expander implant usually produces a better result, as finer volume adjustments can made after surgery. The expander-
In some cases, adjustment of the skin of the breast may be required at a later date.
In others, a reduction of the larger breast may be considered alone.
How is the surgery performed?
All procedures will be performed under general anaesthetic, staying overnight in hospital.
Important advice to follow before surgery
What is the recovery like?
This will vary depending on the type of operation carried out. Most patients will need two week's off work. You should be able to carry out light chores at home but will need help with more strenuous work and child care. It is advised that you do not drive for two weeks.
If an expander implant is used you will need to attend the clinic once a week for about 4-
Are there any risks or complications associated with corrective breast surgery?
Although every care is taken to minimise complications, these can occur. This list is not exhaustive and will be discussed in more detail at your consultation. The risks will depend on the type of operation performed -
Whilst every effort will be made to achieve the desired outcome for patients with Breast Hypoplasia, Tuberous Breasts and Breast Asymmetry, there will always be some degree of noticeable difference in the end result.
Guide to recovery after corrective breast surgery:
Wearing a wired bra 6 weeks
Return to work 2-
Driving 2 weeks
Aerobics & sport 6 -
Massage Scars 2-
Flights 6 weeks
Special note to all patients considering corrective breast surgery
This is a general description of the typical corrective breast surgery procedures that are available and its typical recovery.
However, recovery times and risks will vary between individuals and Mr Foo will discuss this in more detail with you at consultation