Breast Asymmetry Correction
Breast Asymmetry Correction
Improving breast symmetry and overall appearance
What is it?
Breast asymmetry correction combines techniques that may include breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy and fat grafting. These techniques may be applied differently to both breasts or to only one breast.
Not every breast asymmetry correction requires implants. When treatment includes breast augmentation with implants, different implants may be used on the two sides according to the characteristics of each breast.
The assessment is highly individual and should be discussed during the consultation. Perfect symmetry is generally unrealistic, and a more appropriate objective is a meaningful improvement in symmetry.
Associated procedures
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about breast asymmetry correction.
What is breast asymmetry correction?
It is an operation that combines breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy or fat grafting techniques, applied differently to both breasts or to only one breast according to the existing asymmetry.
What can this surgery improve?
It can improve the appearance of symmetry between the breasts while also improving their overall aesthetics.
Why must each case be assessed individually?
Breast shape, volume and the differences between the two sides vary from patient to patient. The combination of techniques and their application to each breast must therefore be planned individually during the consultation.
Is it always necessary to operate on both breasts?
No. The techniques may be applied differently to both breasts or to only one breast, depending on the asymmetry being corrected.
Can different techniques be used on each breast?
Yes. One breast may require augmentation, while the other may require reduction, mastopexy, fat grafting or a different combination of procedures.
Which techniques may be combined?
Correction may combine breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy and fat grafting techniques.
Is perfect breast symmetry possible?
Perfect symmetry is generally unrealistic. The appropriate objective is a meaningful improvement in breast symmetry and overall appearance.
How long does the operation take?
The stated procedure duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia.
Where may the scars be located?
Depending on breast size and shape, there may be a scar around the areola combined with a vertical scar, or these scars may be associated with a horizontal scar along the inframammary fold, forming an inverted T.
Is a hospital stay required?
The operation may be performed on an outpatient basis or with one day in hospital.
When is it possible to return to work?
Return to work is possible after approximately 5–7 days, provided that the activity does not involve physical effort.
When can sporting activity be resumed?
More intense sporting activity may be resumed from six weeks.
How long should the compression bra be worn?
A compression bra recommended by the team should be worn for six weeks.
How long do the results last?
The results persist for many years. Loss of tissue elasticity with age, trauma, weight changes and pregnancy may alter breast shape. When implants are used, replacement may be required during the patient’s lifetime, particularly in those who undergo surgery at a young age.
Does every breast asymmetry correction require implants?
No. Correction may involve breast reduction, mastopexy, fat grafting, breast augmentation or different combinations on each side. Implants are only one possible option.
Which implant-specific complications may occur when implants are used?
When implants are used, rupture, capsular contracture, bleeding, infection, seroma or implant displacement may occur. One or both implants may need to be removed, replaced or surgically revised.
What is capsular contracture?
It is the formation and contraction of scar tissue around an implant. It may make the breast feel tight or hard and may, in some cases, require revision surgery.
What is BIA-ALCL?
BIA-ALCL is a rare lymphoma of the immune system that usually develops in the fluid or capsule surrounding an implant rather than in the breast tissue. The risk is higher with textured implants, and it may present years later with persistent breast swelling, fluid around the implant, pain, hardening or a mass.
What are the symptoms sometimes referred to as ‘breast implant illness’?
Some patients with implants report fatigue, muscle or joint pain, memory or concentration difficulties and other systemic symptoms. There is no specific test that confirms this diagnosis, and a causal relationship with implants remains poorly understood.