Breast Asymmetry
Breast asymmetry in teenage females is common. In certain situations, the asymmetry may be significant, and may lead to decreased body image, and difficulty finding clothes that fit.
What Is Breast Asymmetry?
While breast asymmetry in teenagers is quite common, significant breast asymmetry may make it difficult for patients to find clothes that fit. A proportion of girls with breast asymmetry may also suffer from anxiety and decreased body image. Treatment by a specialized team, which includes plastic surgeons and psychologists, may be beneficial.What Causes Breast Asymmetry?
In most cases, breast asymmetry is idiopathic, which means that its cause is unknown.
In certain situations, the asymmetry may be due to one of the following conditions:
- Tuberous breast deformity
- Amastia
- Poland syndrome
- Congenital breast hypoplasia
- A breast mass
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Asymmetry?
Signs and symptoms of breast asymmetry include:
- Asymmetric breasts (different shapes and sizes)
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit
- Impaired body image
- Scoliosis
How Is Breast Asymmetry Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of breast asymmetry is usually based on history and physical examination. The physician may examine the patient’s arms, hands and chest in case other conditions are suspected. In the rare circumstances where a mass is suspected, or if there is a strong family history of breast tumors, imaging may be obtained.How Are Asymmetric Breasts Treated?
If the breast size has changed over the past 12 months, observation is usually recommended to allow breast size to stabilize.
If the breast size has been stable for over 12 months, surgery may be considered. The type of surgery will vary based on patient wishes and surgeon assessment. Options may include:
- Enlarging the small breast
- Reducing the size of the large breast
In some situations, more than one surgery may be required.
Why Choose Nationwide Children's Hospital?
Our team of highly specialized breast providers includes plastic surgeons, psychologists, nurses and nurse practitioners, dedicated to optimizing the experience and outcome of our patients.
