No two breasts are the same. Every woman has at least minor differences in the size and shape of her breasts, but some women have significantly uneven breasts that affect their self-esteem and clothing choices. Asymmetrical breasts make finding a bra that provides adequate support for both breasts impossible. Bathing suits, lingerie, and other revealing clothing never fit correctly, and padding your bra may still look lopsided. Dr. Dumanian is a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers cosmetic surgery to correct breast asymmetry.
Why Are My Breasts Uneven?
Breast asymmetry can be hereditary, meaning if other women in your family have this issue, you may develop uneven breasts too. You may notice the size differences as early as puberty, or changes caused by age, pregnancy, or menopause may cause asymmetrical breasts later in life. The breasts may have different amounts of muscle, glandular, or adipose tissue, causing the visible distinction. The breasts sit on the rib cage, and variations in the shape and position of these ribs as they join into the sternum can lead to a visible difference between the sides. Gaining or losing weight and exercising the pectoral muscle to build muscle mass may exacerbate the appearance of uneven breasts.
Treatment Options for Breast Asymmetry
Temporary solutions such as padding or inserts for your bras are cumbersome and won’t address the size differences when you wear a swimsuit or get intimate with a partner. Cosmetic surgery can provide an even and proportionate bust in several ways, including:
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the most common way to improve uneven breasts by placing a breast implant in the smaller breast to match the larger one. Dr. Dumanian can also increase the size of both breasts with two implants of different volumes. Our breast surgeon offers both saline (salt water) and silicone breast implants.
Breast Lift
Sometimes asymmetrical breasts are affected by the loss of volume and skin elasticity that happens with age. One breast may have more loose skin than the other, causing it to droop or sag lower. A breast lift elevates one or both breasts to the same height and improves firmness by removing excess skin and tightening the breast tissues.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction may be the recommended route depending on the size of the larger breast. This cosmetic surgery decreases the larger breast to match the smaller one, removing tissue and reshaping the breasts for a symmetrical size and even shape. Breast reduction also elevates the breasts.
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Breast Asymmetry
If you struggle with uneven breasts, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dumanian at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. Contact our Chicago, Illinois office at (312) 695-6022.