Tuberous breast deformity is a congenital condition that can lead to significant embarrassment and low self-esteem for many women. These deformities affect approximately five percent of the female population, usually manifesting in puberty when breast development primarily occurs. The good news is that this condition can nearly always be successfully treated through procedures designed to round out the cone shape of the breast and provide fullness and lift to breasts lacking those features.
Symptoms of Tuberous Breast Deformity
Tuberous breast deformity can take on a variety of appearances. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Conical shape with enlarged areola
- Unusually narrow breast base
- Significant spacing between breasts
- Tight breast skin under nipple
- Poorly defined or absent inframammary fold
- Flat appearance to top half of breast
- Breast tissue appears to project into areola and nipple
Some women only experience the condition in one breast, leaving an asymmetrical appearance that can be very difficult to minimize. Whether the deformity is in one or both breasts, cosmetic surgery options can help provide normal shape and positioning to the breasts, while ensuring symmetry in the body profile.
Treatment Options
The most common procedure for addressing tubular breast deformity is augmentation using implants. Correct placement of silicone or saline implants provides the fullness tuberous breasts are lacking. At the same time, some women may require a breast lift procedure to place the breast into a more natural position.
Some patients may require procedures to bring the areola and nipple into proportion with the rest of the breast. Women who have excessively narrow or small breasts may need a tissue expander placed to stretch the tissues prior to implant correction.
Surgery to correct tuberous breast deformities can often be performed on an outpatient basis, thus patients are usually able to return home the same day as the procedure. Most will spend the first two days resting and managing discomfort with oral pain medication. Women are usually able to return to work and regular activities within 1-2 weeks after breast surgery.
Choosing the Right Cosmetic Surgeon
Correction of tuberous breast deformities can require complex procedure that involve a combination of techniques to achieve a natural, proportionate look to the breasts. Dr. Kahlil Andrews is experienced in all types of breast procedures, including those to correct tuberous breasts. Because the condition may be considered a congenital defect, insurance coverage may be available for some patients.
To learn more about correction for tuberous breast deformity, contact Dr. Andrews’ staff at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-800-6877.
