Tubular Breasts and Asymmetric Breasts

For most women, breasts are a defining aspect of femininity. Size and shape play a role in a woman’s confidence in body image and feelings of self-esteem. Breast augmentation and breast reduction are common surgical procedures to improve or reshape the breasts to suit the woman’s preference and perception.

The body is not bilaterally identical, for example, no one’s eyes or ears are exactly the same. This is also true of breasts—no one has breasts that are identical, but if they are similar enough, the appearance is still pleasing.

However, there are medical conditions that can create a somewhat more severe situation:

• Tubular breasts, also called tuberous breasts or tubular breast deformity
• Asymmetric breasts

While requiring more complex procedures than simple augmentation or reduction, Dr. Sajan, the #1 plastic surgeon in the Seattle area, is experienced in correcting both conditions, offering patients the opportunity to have the alluring profile they desire.

Tubular breasts can manifest differently in different people and may involve either one or both breasts. Typically, however, it shows clinically as underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts, beyond what would be characterized as “small breasts” or breasts that are slightly different in size and shape. Other symptoms may be:

• Swelling of the areola, because tissue has pushed through the wall of the nipple cavity in which it usually resides (also called herniated tissue).
• Abnormal lower curve of the breast, such as a narrow base at the chest wall
• Deficiencies of breast tissue and the skin covering the breast
• An unusually wide space between the breasts

Because there is a wide range of severity of symptoms, if you suspect you may have tubular breasts but are unsure, the wisest course is to schedule a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in breast procedures.

“Asymmetric breasts” refers to a difference between the breasts in size, volume, position or form, which is not unusual. This asymmetry is often seen in cases of tubular breasts. A clinical condition may exist, however, when there is a variation in density or internal structure, as seen in a mammogram.

Because of water retention and additional blood flow, breasts may become enlarged during ovulation and are usually the most symmetrical on the first day. If the condition exists, however, they will shrink and become asymmetrical again after menstruation.

Causes of Asymmetric Breasts

Possible contributors may include:

• Hormonal changes
• Traumatic injuries to the breast bud at a young age
• Underlying, non-cancerous fibroids
• An underlying medical or skeletal condition, such as scoliosis, curvature of the spine or a deformity in the chest wall

Asymmetric Breasts and Cancer

Asymmetric breasts do not, of course, automatically indicate breast cancer; however, they may be a marker for women who have a higher risk for breast cancer. As such, it is important for women with asymmetric breasts to perform routine self-examinations and have regular mammograms.

A personal consultation to is a crucial first step when planning to surgically correct breast size and shape. Dr. Sajan will discuss your personal, aesthetic goals and develop the optimal surgical plan. This will be based on his years of experience offering the combination of a keen sense of artistry and state-of-the-art, precision surgical techniques.

The procedure will vary, depending on the condition. Generally correcting breast appearance includes the following steps:

• A small incision will be made in the lower part of the breast.
• Any herniation or constricted tissue will be corrected, to allow space for the insertion of an implant.
• A new lower breast fold and glandular flap may need to be formed to create an appropriate shape for the lower pole (the part of the breast below the areola).
• Either an implant will be inserted (breast augmentation) or breast reduction will be performed to sculpt the breast tissue to the desired size and shape. It has been found that women with asymmetry who opt for breast reduction are typically very satisfied with the outcome of the procedure.

Insurance is accepted for gender affirming surgeries. We will work with you and your insurance company to determine if any compensation for the procedure is possible.

The stages of recovery typically include:

• After the surgical correction is completed, there will be some swelling and lumpiness.
• You will have to rest and generally require pain medication for the first few days.
• Within a few days, you should be able to walk around and perform low-stress, sedentary work.
• You will have to avoid strenuous physical activities for several weeks; however, you should see some improvement over that time.
• Substantial healing typically takes approximately two months.

Dr. Sajan has dedicated his entire professional career exclusively to cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He has performed over 1000 procedures—from purely cosmetic to reconstructive—in surgical centers around the world. He also shares his deep knowledge and experience by teaching advanced techniques in facelifts, body contouring and breast augmentation to other plastic surgeons and has been a frequent guest lecturer at professional conferences and events.

His singular goal is to provide the best possible care for each of his patients. He listens to and respects those under his care and develops the least invasive and most effective treatment plan for every individual. His entire team is on board with his philosophy and will work hard to ensure you have the experience and results you desire.