Breast Asymmetry Correction: what is it?
Recovery Fast
At our clinic we have been using this surgical method for over 10 years, with experience and results proven by the low percentage of complications.
Our aim is for recovery to be as comfortable and quick as possible, but always prioritising safety and low complications.
More important than recovering quickly is that everything goes smoothly, without any avoidable complications.
What is the
Breast Asymmetry?
A breast asymmetry is the medical term used to describe a difference in a woman's breasts. The differences can be in size, shape, characteristics of the nipples and areolas. Some women have a combination of these differences.
No woman has a symmetrical 100% breast. There are always small differences that in most cases go unnoticed and are not a cause of discomfort for the woman. However, in some cases, this asymmetry is quite noticeable from adolescence onwards and may even be a malformation. In some situations, they cause great distress to the woman who often suffers in silence, avoiding revealing her problem in simple activities such as sport or going to the beach, because she is ashamed of her body.
Causes of
Breast Asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry affects most women and can be more or less obvious. The differences in breast characteristics are essentially due to the following factors:
- Anatomical features: we are naturally asymmetrical. Asymmetry doesn't just happen with a woman's breasts, but also with other parts of her body such as her arms, legs, fingers and even her eyebrows. Asymmetry is only a problem when it is very visible and affects self-esteem;
- Hormonal changes: There are many women who do not develop their breast tissue fully or symmetrically during adolescence, due to unknown hormonal changes. In some women, this asymmetry persists even after puberty, which can become very distressing as it interferes with the development of a healthy body image and self-confidence;
- Nodules and Cysts: in some cases, lumps and cysts can be the cause of some breast asymmetries. It's essential to see a specialist to make sure that these are benign malformations that don't require surgery;
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Breast asymmetry after pregnancy and breastfeeding is very common because each breast works independently and reacts differently. One of the factors contributing to breast asymmetry is the accumulation of milk and differences in milk production between one breast and another.
*There are other causes of breast asymmetry such as traumatic injuries, the consequence of a surgical failure and complications such as capsular contractures (a possible complication of breast augmentation).
In some cases, small asymmetries can be corrected with an approach less invasive
O Mia® can be an option in selected cases of slight breast asymmetry, especially when the aim is to discreetly improve the volume and harmony of the breast with a natural result.
Indication always depends on anatomy and individual medical assessment.
Who it's for
surgery to correct breast asymmetry?
Breast asymmetry correction surgery is indicated for healthy, emotionally mature women with realistic expectations who have only one or a combination of the following characteristics:
- Breast Hypoplasia and Hypertrophy: one breast too small and the other too large;
- Asymmetrical hypoplasia: very small, underdeveloped breasts, but one is larger than the other;
- Unilateral or asymmetrical breast sagging (ptosis): only one breast is sagging or one breast is sagging more than the other;
- Asymmetrical breast position: when the breasts are located in different positions;
- Areolar asymmetry: difference in the size and position of the areolas and nipples;
- Tubular breast deformity: in this deformity there are varying degrees of constriction, asymmetry in size/shape and herniation of the areola.
Correction of Breast Asymmetry:
Personalised Treatment Plan
Some patients have just one deformity, such as a difference in breast size (which can be corrected with implants of different sizes), while others have several deformities, which may require a combination of several techniques. Each case is different and must be carefully assessed in order to achieve the most symmetrical result possible. Breast asymmetry can be corrected using a combination of the following techniques:
Breast Augmentation
In cases of asymmetry, breast augmentation is performed with breast implants of different sizes to correct the difference in breast size and achieve a more harmonious and symmetrical result.
Mastopexy
Whether it's congenital breast sagging or caused by weight fluctuations or changes caused by pregnancy/breastfeeding, the mastopexy techniques chosen will be the most appropriate to achieve a more harmonious and proportional breast. Breast lifts can be performed with or without implants.
Reduction mammoplasty
Breast asymmetry can be corrected with a breast reduction when one or both breasts are excessively large. The aim of breast reduction is to reduce the size of the breast as well as remodelling the breast tissue to improve shape and projection.
Tuberous Breast Correction
Tubular breast deformity is very common and is often associated with cases of breast asymmetry. Correcting the tuberous breast will improve fundamental aspects of breast harmony, such as creating the lower pole of the breast, remodelling the breast tissue into a rounder shape, smaller and more proportional areolas, etc.
What results can I expect
after a Breast Asymmetry correction?
The result of breast asymmetry correction is visible immediately after surgery, but the final result is expected after a few months. Women who undergo breast asymmetry correction surgery report a considerable improvement in their quality of life as well as their self-esteem, since they can now wear clothes they didn't feel comfortable wearing, such as low-cut tops and bikinis.
At our clinic, we apply the Rapid Recovery / 24h Recovery, It is used in all surgeries to correct breast asymmetry, allowing the patient to have a comfortable, short and mobile recovery hours after surgery.
Type of Anaesthesia
Breast asymmetry correction is usually performed under sedation and local anaesthesia. First, the patient is sedated by the anaesthetist and then, when she is asleep, local anaesthetics are injected so that she doesn't feel any pain during the procedure.
Types of Incision - Scar
The scars depend on the initial state of the breast, the type of asymmetry and the interventions required. Correcting asymmetry can involve one type of scar on one breast and a different scar on the other.
- Breast Augmentation: inframammary or periareolar scar;
- Tuberous Breast Correction: usually involves a periareolar scar;
- Mastopexy: vertical scar or inverted T;
- Reduction mammoplasty: vertical scar or inverted T.
Your correction appointment of Breast Asymmetry
The medical consultation for the correction of breast asymmetry covers various aspects so that you are properly informed:
1. Counselling
The first step in your consultation is to share with the medical team what is bothering you and the result you want to achieve.
2. Simulation with Vectra 3D
In some cases, it is possible to carry out a 3D simulation, which allows you to visualise the result that can be achieved with the surgery.
3. Detailed explanations
As well as clearing up all your doubts - the risks of surgery, pre- and post-operative care and the results you can expect - a personalised treatment plan is drawn up.
4. Presentation of the Rapid Recovery protocol
At our clinic, we apply the Rapid Recovery / 24h Recovery in all breast asymmetry correction surgeries, allowing the patient to have a comfortable, short and mobile recovery hours after surgery.
5. Budget
After the medical consultation you will be given an exact quote according to the combination of surgeries. You can then book the date of your surgery.
6. Psychological assessment
For us, your well-being and mental health are a priority. Therefore, before the surgery we carry out a psychological assessment to ensure that you have the necessary conditions to undergo the procedure and that you are aware of the impact it could have on your life.
3D simulation Breast Asymmetry Correction
Vectra XT 3D is revolutionary software that makes it possible to visualise in real time the before and after of a breast asymmetry correction, allowing patients to get an idea of the results they can achieve with different types and sizes of silicone prostheses, thus managing their expectations in a more realistic way.
What's more, if there is any doubt about the size or shape, during the surgery it is possible to determine which implant is best for that particular woman, as there are moulds available, the “sizers”.
Asymmetry Correction
Breast step by step
The treatment of breast asymmetry is completely personalised according to the initial characteristics of the breast and may involve a combination of various surgical techniques:
Marking the standing patient
The markings are made with the patient standing so that we can correctly visualise the differences between the two breasts - size, sagging, areola characteristics, etc.
Sedation
Sedation is administered intravenously by the anaesthetist, who will be present throughout the procedure.
Disinfection
The area to be operated on is cleaned and disinfected to reduce the risk of infection. Operating drapes are placed to isolate the chest area from the external environment.
Local anaesthesia
The local anaesthetic is injected into the area to be operated on, with the patient already sedated. As she is already asleep, she won't feel any stinging or pain during the operation.
Incisions
According to the previously planned surgical techniques, incisions are made - inframammary, circumareolar, vertical or inverted T. Correcting breast asymmetry may require a different scar on each breast.
Bag detachment
If breast implants are placed, a pocket is created for their placement.
Placing sizers
Before the actual implants are inserted, a simulation is carried out with sizers to visualise the final result.
Triple antibiotic therapy
The implants are bathed in antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
Introduction of implants
Introduction of breast prostheses into the pouch.
Closing the incisions
The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. The patient is seated to check the result and symmetry.
Surgical glue
The glue is applied to the scars in order to seal the skin, isolating the scar from the external environment. Surgical glue requires no care and gradually falls off after 15 days.
Recovery
Before being taken to the recovery room, a post-surgical bra is put on. The patient is woken up by the anaesthetist and then taken to the recovery room where she remains under observation for as long as necessary until she is discharged.
Preparation
Breast Asymmetry Correction
At the doctor's appointment, the patient receives detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including all the care she should take before and after the operation.
Before surgery
- Do not take aspirin or any anticoagulant two weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding;
- Do not smoke one month before and one month after surgery in order to contribute to good healing;
- If you become ill in the days before the surgery, you should inform the medical team immediately;
- Carefully read the documentation you've been given about breast asymmetry correction surgery, as you may have questions;
- If you have young children, organise your routines in advance and make sure you have help at home;
- If you still have doubts about the surgery, ask all your questions beforehand.
On the day of surgery
- The day before, eat a light meal; you should fast for 8 hours - don't eat or drink any liquid other than water;
- The day before and the day of surgery, you should shower with the prescribed antibacterial gel to reduce the risk of infection;
- No jewellery or watches;
- Do not wear make-up or nail varnish;
- Bring comfortable clothes (preferably with buttons or a zip down the front);
- Once she has been discharged, she must have someone to pick her up from the clinic because she can't go home alone.
Recovery and post-operative care
- Do not make any physical effort for the first 8 days (you can return to work after one to two weeks if your profession does not involve any effort);
- Take the prescribed medication on time;
- Don't drive for a week;
- Wear the surgical bra for 30 days and the band for 15 days;
- No smoking;
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet;
- Attend all review appointments;
- You will be able to do physical activity after a month, but you should start gradually.
Benefits Breast Asymmetry Correction
- Improved self-esteem: women who undergo surgery to correct breast asymmetry show a significant improvement in self-esteem and self-confidence as they feel comfortable with their own bodies, which is reflected in the way they dress and relate to others;
- Freedom in choosing clothes: concerns about choosing clothes that disguise the difference in breast size are no longer a concern. Women now have greater freedom in their choice of clothing, especially when it comes to swimwear and necklines;
- Improved quality of life: when the breast is excessively large, it causes difficulties in carrying out day-to-day activities, particularly physical exercise. By reducing breast size, women gain more agility and comfort.
Rapid Recovery in Breast Asymmetry Correction
O Rapid Recovery Protocol is the technique we have used in all breast surgery, including surgery to correct breast asymmetry. It consists of a set of practices that optimise surgical safety and also recovery time.
The success of this technique requires careful planning of all stages: consultation, surgery and post-surgery.
At our clinic we have been using the Rapid Recovery technique for more than 10 years, with experience and results proven by the low percentage of complications.
Our aim is for recovery to be as comfortable and fast as possible, but always prioritising safety and low complications. More important than recovering quickly is that everything goes smoothly, without avoidable complications.
Each body is different, each case is different. Whilst it's true that the majority of women go through surgery extremely comfortably, it's still necessary to allow time for a smooth recovery, so as not to precipitate unnecessary complications. O full recovery time surgery to correct breast asymmetry always ends up going for at least 4 weeks.
At an early stage, there is a lot of oedema and you shouldn't exert yourself physically for the first 4 weeks to reduce the risk of haematomas and seromas. Wanting to rush recovery can be counterproductive and end up causing more complications in the short/medium term.
Medical Specialists
About
Dr Luísa Magalhães Ramos / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 42810, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, specialising in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, He specialised in University Hospital Centre Lisboa Central - St Joseph's Hospital.
Throughout his training, he sub-specialised in the area of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, He has worked in world-renowned centres. At the same time, he also worked on breast reconstruction and the reconstruction of facial malformations.
He is currently working mainly on Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of the Face (eyelids, nose and cervical-facial lift), Breast Surgery and Female Genital Surgery.
About
Dr Alice Varanda Pereira / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 47051, specialist in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Subspecialist in Aesthetic and Cosmetic Medicine.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School, It was at this institution that she took her Master's degree in Human Sexuality and is currently working on her PhD.
She has been a member of the faculty's teaching staff since 2008, as Assistant Professor at the Institute of Anatomy. It is in this unit that she produces most of her research projects, essentially in the area of surgical anatomy, and she is also the supervisor of master's theses.
About
Dr Mariana da Rocha Martins/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 55124, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He graduated from Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Porto and completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the University Hospital Centre Lisboa Central - St Joseph's Hospital.
During his specific training in Plastic Surgery, he worked at internationally renowned institutions such as the Kaplan Institute (Barcelona), in La Clinic (Montreux) and Great Ormond Street Hospital (London).
About
Dr Marta Gouveia Duarte/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 57817, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, where she completed her Master's thesis in Human Ageing.
He completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
He collaborates in various research projects in NOVA Medical School.
About
Dr Sara Carvalho / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 60781, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School. He completed his speciality in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
She has taken various courses in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast and aesthetic surgery of the face.
She is currently a member of the clinical staff of the Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery service at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, where she excels in the areas of Breast Reconstruction, Body Contouring and Post-Bariatric Surgery, Paediatric Plastic Surgery, Trauma and Burn Surgery. She works as a hospital assistant, is a training supervisor and is responsible for Safe Surgery at the institution.
About
Dr Filipa Oliveira/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 59147, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, where she completed her master's thesis on paediatric scars.
She holds a doctorate in medicine from the University of Münster in Germany.
After completing her speciality, she became a Senior Graduate Assistant (Oberärztin) at the Fachklinik Hornheide and the University of Münster. She is currently collaborating on various research projects at the University of Münster, where she is supervising doctoral students. She is also a regular correspondent for scientific and leisure magazines in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions about
Breast Asymmetries
Is breast asymmetry correction a safe surgery?
All surgeries are associated with risks and complications. As such, the correction of breast asymmetry can also have associated risks, but these risks are drastically reduced if you take into account factors such as:
- Choose an accredited plastic surgery clinic and a plastic surgeon registered with the Medical Association;
- Choose a plastic surgeon experienced in correcting breast asymmetry and in breast augmentation, mastopexy, breast reduction, tuberous breast correction and other breast deformities;
- Carry out all preoperative examinations;
- Strictly follow all medical recommendations - pre- and post-operative.
How much does breast asymmetry correction cost in Lisbon?
The price of a breast asymmetry correction in Lisbon depends on the initial state of the breast and the combination of surgeries required. At your medical assessment appointment, a personalised treatment plan will be drawn up and the exact cost of the surgery will be confirmed.
How common is breast asymmetry?
Most women have some degree of breast asymmetry, but very rarely are the breasts perfectly symmetrical. When the asymmetry is very pronounced, it can affect a woman's self-esteem and in these cases, surgery is recommended.
Are there non-surgical procedures to improve breast asymmetry?
Non-surgical methods for correcting breast asymmetry do not provide noticeable and lasting results. Breast asymmetry correction surgery is the best option for those looking for more visible, predictable and long-lasting results.
What is the best way to correct differences in breast size and shape?
There is no one technique that is suitable for all women as the treatment plan depends on the initial state of the breast, the degree of asymmetry and the desired result. Different surgeries can be performed to change the appearance of one or both breasts, including breast augmentation, mastopexy with or without implants, breast reduction and fat grafting.
Does the surgery guarantee that the breasts will be exactly the same?
No. The aim of the surgery is to achieve a more harmonious, proportional and symmetrical result. The final result will essentially depend on the initial state of the breasts and the degree of asymmetry.
From what age can breast asymmetry be corrected?
It is advisable to have this surgery after the age of 18, when the breast is usually already developed. It is also advisable that you are of a stable weight and that you don't plan on getting pregnant in the short term so as not to jeopardise the outcome of the surgery.
Can I continue to have mammograms after surgery?
You can and should continue to undergo breast cancer screening tests if they are indicated
After how long can I wear normal bras?
During the 30 days following surgery, you should always wear the surgical bra and band for 15 days. After this time, you can wear normal bras that you feel comfortable in.
Will the scar disappear?
All surgeries are associated with scars and the correction of breast asymmetry is no exception. The scars are permanent, but over time they become finer and lighter and, in some cases, practically unnoticeable. The final result of the scar is expected 12 to 18 months after surgery. It is also important to know that the final appearance of scars depends on genetic characteristics and post-operative care.
Can I lose sensitivity?
Changes in breast sensitivity are one of the possible complications of breast surgery. However, many of these changes are transient.
Will I need drains?
The use of drains helps to eliminate the fluids that accumulate in the breast. Drains are placed whenever the surgeon deems it necessary and are usually removed after 24/48 hours.
Are there financing options or payment plans available to pay for a breast asymmetry correction?
Having financing options to help patients manage the cost of surgery is often a crucial factor when choosing the plastic surgeon and clinic where breast asymmetry correction surgery is performed. At LMR, we have payment facilities to make it easier to pay for this surgery. Patients should be aware of the payment policies and requirements associated with these options at their initial consultation so that they can make informed decisions about financing their breast asymmetry correction surgery. For more information on payment facilities, please contact us using the contact form or by email - geral@lmrcirurgiaplastica.pt.
