Tuberous Breast Correction
Tuberous Breast Correction
Breast reshaping and improvement of symmetry
What is it?
Tuberous breast surgery consists of remodelling the breast tissue to correct the abnormal breast shape, which may appear tapered or have a tight, ring-shaped base, with the breast developing beyond that ring and acquiring a sagged appearance. The details vary considerably from case to case and should be discussed during the consultation to define the intended outcome.
Perfect symmetry is generally unrealistic, and a very significant improvement in symmetry is a more appropriate goal. When the patient already has sufficient breast volume, it may be possible to avoid an implant and use only her own breast tissues.
When increasing breast volume is also desired, in addition to correcting the deformity, an implant or fat grafting may be indicated.
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Procedures that may be combined
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about tuberous breast correction.
What are tuberous breasts?
Tuberous breasts have an abnormal shape that may look tapered or have a tight, ring-shaped base, with breast tissue developing beyond that ring and creating a sagged appearance.
What is tuberous breast correction intended to improve?
The operation aims to improve the tubular breast shape, the appearance of symmetry and the overall breast aesthetics by remodelling the breast tissue.
Is the assessment the same for every patient?
No. Breast anatomy and desired outcomes vary considerably, so surgical planning should be individualised during the consultation.
Can perfect symmetry be achieved?
Perfect symmetry is generally unrealistic. A more appropriate goal is a very significant improvement in symmetry.
Are breast implants always required?
No. When the patient already has sufficient breast volume, correction may be possible using only her own breast tissues.
When may an implant or fat grafting be used?
When breast volume is also intended to increase, in addition to correcting the deformity, an implant or fat grafting may be indicated.
How long does the procedure take?
The stated procedure time is generally between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
What scars may result from surgery?
Depending on breast size and shape, the scars may be around the areola with a vertical scar below it, or these scars may be combined with a horizontal scar along the inframammary fold, forming an inverted T.
Is a hospital stay required?
The procedure may be performed as outpatient surgery or require one day in hospital.
When can I return to work?
A return to work may be possible after approximately 5 to 7 days, provided that the activity does not require lifting or exertion.
When can sports be resumed and how long is a compression bra worn?
More strenuous sports activities may be resumed after 6 weeks. A compression bra is recommended for 6 weeks.
What are the main general risks and postoperative problems?
Possible problems include discomfort controlled with pain relief, swelling, delayed healing, temporary warmth and changes in nipple sensation. Less frequent problems include excessive scarring, scar hyperpigmentation, haematoma, infection and areas of greater firmness or consistency related to fat necrosis.
What additional risks apply when implants are used?
In addition to bleeding, infection, rupture and capsular contracture, risks include seroma, implant displacement, asymmetry, rippling or palpability, persistent pain, sensory changes and the need for revision, removal or replacement. BIA-ALCL is a rare implant-associated lymphoma reported more often with textured implants. Very rare cases of squamous cell carcinoma and other lymphomas in the capsule around an implant have also been reported.
How long do the results and implants last?
Results may persist for many years, although ageing, loss of tissue elasticity, trauma, weight changes or pregnancy can alter breast shape. Breast implants are not lifetime devices and may need to be removed or replaced during a patient’s lifetime, particularly when surgery is performed at a young age.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
