Breast Symmetry Procedures - What to Expect

Almost all women have some degree of asymmetrical breasts, but some women have a significant unevenness in breast shape and size; this can be corrected with a breast augmentation or breast reduction procedure. Breast symmetry procedures are performed to restore or reduce the volume or amount of tissues in the breast so that the breasts appear more balanced and the woman can feel more comfortable with her appearance.

If you have uneven breasts and are considering cosmetic surgery to enhance your silhouette, here's what to expect with breast symmetry procedures:

How are Breast Symmetry Procedures Performed?

Breast symmetry procedures are typically performed under general anesthesia, and the amount will depend on the length of the surgery and the type of techniques the surgeon will be using. If the surgeon is only creating a few small incisions to remove excess fat with liposuction, or to remove small pieces of breast tissue, the procedure may be performed using local anesthesia.

If one or both breasts need to be made larger, the surgeon may use a miniature version of saline or silicone implants; in this type of surgery, the surgeon will need to make an incision near the breast tissue and around the areola to create a small pocket for the implant. The implant will be inserted into the pocket and the surrounding tissues will be repositioned before the skin is sutured back together.

If one or both breasts need to be reduced in size, the surgeon may use a mini-liposuction procedure to extract any excess fatty tissue. The surgeon can then reposition the breast tissues so that the breast appears more even and resembles the size and shape of the other breast. All incisions made can be sutured together and gauze or a tight bandage will be wrapped around the treated area so that it can heal.

Are there Potential Risks or Complications with Breast Symmetry Procedures?

Most patients will experience tenderness, soreness or even mild swelling in the areas of the incisions for at least 48-72 hours after the procedure, and the surgeon will have wrapped the breasts in a tight gauze to encourage rapid healing. As with most breast augmentation and breast reduction procedures, there are some risks and complications to be aware of. Breast symmetry procedures may cause significant discomfort and pain for several weeks after surgery if the body is unable to heal properly.

If the scar tissues from the incisions become infected or inflamed, you may need additional treatment or required to take medications to help improve the healing process and reduce the risk of tissue damage. If the scars do not heal properly at all, you may be left with noticeable scars that are difficult to hide. These and other risks associated with the surgery will be discussed during your initial consultation.

Other Information About Breast Symmetry Procedures

Finding the right plastic surgery doctor for the procedure is important for the success of your surgery, and you'll need to work with a plastic or cosmetic surgeon who already performs breast augmentation or breast reduction procedures on a regular basis. Surgeons who specialize in breast augmentation may use advanced techniques for the surgery so that your results appear natural and leave you with as few scars from incisions as possible.