Dr. Dirk Lazarus
Plastic Surgeon

Tel: 021 424 1112
Fax: 021 424 1118

86 New Church St
Tamboerskloof
Cape Town, 8001
South Africa

BREAST ASYMMETRY, to a lesser or greater degree, is present in almost all women. Usually the left breast is a little wider and squatter, while the right breast tends to be long and thin. Sometimes, however, the two breasts can be markedly asymmetrical. Loss of a breast as a consequence of mastectomy or asymmetry arising out of treatment for breast cancer requires breast reconstruction.

Some of the more common causes of asymmetrical breasts include:

~ Poland's syndrome is a condition where the breast on one side fails to develop. This may be associated with absence of development of the other tissues of the chest wall (muscles, bone, etc.) as well as hand and forearm problems. Correction entails reconstructing the breast often with tissue expanders, implants, etc.
~ Tuberous breasts have a narrow base on the chest wall and the nipple and areola are said to herniate through the breast. In addition they are associated with breast hypoplasia, i.e. the breast is small. They are usually asymmetrical with either only one breast involved or both breasts involved to a differing degree.
~ Tumours or masses can cause gross enlargement of one breast (rarely presents as asymmetrical breasts, more commonly as a lump, etc.)

Treatment varies according to the individual case. This usually involves treating the cause and equalising the breasts. Correction of the asymmetry is frequently an opportunity to attain better breasts with the shape and size that you want. Depending on which breast you prefer, the other could be reduced, enlarged or lifted to your preference. Sometimes it is better to operate on both breasts so as better to achieve a greater degree of symmetry. Complete symmetry, however is elusive, although it is usually possible to achieve a marked improvement and a result with which you will be happy.

Testimonials from patients who have had breast surgery.