Symmetry Operations (Matching with the Opposite Breast)

Sometimes, due to developmental, structural, or acquired reasons, the size and shape of one breast may differ from the other. It is generally not the case that both breasts in women are exactly identical, but most of the time, the level of this inequality does not bother the person. The condition we call breast asymmetry is when both breasts are distinctly and clearly different from each other. Symmetry operations are used to eliminate this asymmetrical appearance and ensure that both breasts are harmonious with each other. Op. Dr. İbrahim Çolhan, who serves his patients in Adana, explained what symmetry operations are, who they are suitable for, and how they are performed.

What are the Causes of Breast Asymmetry?

There are numerous factors that cause breast asymmetry. Developmental problems such as anomalies in the chest wall, Poland syndrome, and tubular breast deformity can lead to asymmetry in the breasts. In addition, trauma, breast surgeries, hormonal changes, weight changes, or breastfeeding can also cause breast asymmetry and deformities. However, a problem that needs attention is sudden and rapidly progressing asymmetrical conditions. In such cases, a tumor should be suspected.

What are the Physical Examination Findings of Breast Asymmetry?

During a physical examination, if there is a visually noticeable size difference between the two breasts, asymmetry can be diagnosed. Furthermore, different levels of creases under both breasts and varying positions of the nipples also allow for a diagnosis of asymmetry.

How is Breast Asymmetry Treated?

When determining the treatment method, the patient's detailed medical history is taken. Afterward, a comprehensive physical examination is performed. The size difference between both breasts, the positions of the nipples, the degree of sagging in the breasts, and the patient's expectations are taken into account. To correct asymmetry in the breasts, accurate and meticulously planned surgeries are needed. In surgical treatment, generally, different interventions are made to each breast. For example, if there is a volume deficiency, the breast can be enlarged using silicone implants or the desired volume can be achieved by injecting fat into the breast. If sagging is present, breast lift surgery with or without implants can be performed. Or, in line with the patient's expectations, breast reduction intervention can be performed.

What is the Ideal Timing for Correcting Breast Asymmetry?

If surgical intervention is to be performed to eliminate breast asymmetry, the patient's breast development is awaited until completion. For adults, there is no time or age restriction.

Is 100% Symmetry Achieved After Breast Asymmetry Surgery?

The main principle of these operations is to minimize obvious asymmetry. However, it should be remembered that achieving a hundred percent symmetrical breast appearance is not possible. Therefore, the patient should not expect a hundred percent symmetrical appearance. The obvious asymmetry between the two breasts is eliminated.

Are Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgeries Performed in a Single Session?

Generally, in asymmetry surgeries where different interventions are performed on both breasts, surgeons aim to complete the entire operation in a single session. However, sometimes a second session may need to be planned. Nevertheless, it should not be forgotten that revision surgery may be needed in challenging and complex cases.

What is the Post-Operative Period Like After Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgery?

Performing different interventions on both breasts, such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift, affects the post-operative period. After surgery, patients wear a medical bra. It is recommended to use this medical bra for four to six weeks. Patients are usually discharged the day after operations performed to correct breast asymmetry. If the breasts are not very large and no bleeding problem has occurred, a drain may not be necessary. Patients can shower on the third day after the operation. Experiencing minimal pain in the post-operative period is a possible and expected situation. However, these pains can be controlled with pain medication prescribed by your doctor. Patients can return to their daily life activities one week after the operation. However, it is beneficial to wait about six weeks for heavy and strenuous physical activities. Since self-dissolving stitches are used, there is no need for stitch removal. Not smoking after the surgery supports the healing process.

What are the Causes of Breast Asymmetry?

Breasts are generally not perfectly symmetrical. The shape, size, and position of the nipples of both breasts are unequal to a certain extent, and this inequality is considered natural. However, a clearly visible and prominent asymmetry can cause the person to feel aesthetically uncomfortable.

With puberty, the process of change begins in a person's breasts, and an asymmetrical appearance may develop. One breast may grow more than the other. Sometimes, one breast may continue its normal growth process while the other may not develop.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, enlarged breasts subsequently shrink. This shrinkage process may not proceed symmetrically. Rapid weight loss or conditions like mastitis inflammation can also disrupt the symmetry of the breasts. The removal of a part or all of the breast tissue after breast cancer or breast tumor treatment can also lead to an asymmetrical appearance. As age advances, the fatty tissue in the breasts begins to decrease. Volumetric reductions may occur in the mammary glands. This can also bring about the problem of asymmetry.

Structural breast asymmetry can also occur in male breasts starting from puberty.

How is Breast Asymmetry Correction Surgery Performed?

• In breast asymmetry, the goal is to make both breasts as compatible as possible in terms of shape and size. Therefore, while the larger breast is reduced, the smaller breast also needs to be augmented with an implant.
• In breast asymmetry correction surgery, instead of silicone implants used to enlarge the breast, fat cells taken from the person's own body can also be used.
• Along with the shape and size of the breast, shape problems at the nipple can also be corrected. The areolas around the nipples can also be made equal to each other.
• After breast asymmetry correction surgery, it is necessary to avoid movements that strain the arms and lying in a semi-sitting position.
• After the performed operation, the traces of the stitches become invisible after some time.

What are the Techniques for Breast Asymmetry Surgery?

In breast asymmetry correction surgeries, different techniques are used according to the structure, size, and shape of the patient's breasts.

• If sagging is present, breast lift is applied.
• If there is smallness, breast augmentation is performed with fat injection or silicone implant.
• If asymmetry is due to largeness, breast reduction is performed.
• Nipple proportion can be achieved.
• If gynecomastia is present, breast reduction surgery or liposuction can be applied.

What are the Risks of Breast Asymmetry Surgery?

• The patient may experience an allergic reaction to the tapes applied or stitches used during the operation.
• If the patient is pregnant, they may experience breastfeeding problems.
• As with any surgical operation, there is a risk of infection and bleeding.
• Fluid accumulation may occur around the breast.
• Loss of sensation in the nipple may occur.
• Bruising, swelling, or color changes may occur on the skin.
• Wrinkling may occur in the skin tissue over the implant.
• Calcium deposits may form in the scar capsule around the implant.

Symmetry Operations (Matching with the Opposite Breast) Prices

The prices and costs of symmetry operations are shaped according to the nature and number of procedures to be applied. The expertise and experience of the surgeon performing the operation, as well as the technological equipment of the clinic, also affect the prices and costs of symmetry operations. To get up-to-date and clear information about breast symmetry operation prices, you can contact Op. Dr. İbrahim Çolhan, who serves his patients in Adana.