It can be disheartening to see that your breasts don’t quite match after reconstruction. However, it’s not entirely unusual. Many different factors can contribute to this result. Learn about the causes of breast asymmetry following reconstruction and the modern techniques to improve it.
Common Causes of Asymmetry
It is completely possible to achieve a balanced result through breast reconstruction. Yet there are countless reasons why your breasts might seem asymmetrical after reconstruction surgery. Some of them are related to factors that you and our reconstructive surgeons can’t control.
First, the type of mastectomy you undergo can impact your cosmetic outcome. A lumpectomy can also create deficiencies that cause your breasts to look less similar than before. Even radiation therapy to one side after breast reconstruction can make an imbalance more likely.
When only one breast needs to be reconstructed, achieving symmetry tends to be more challenging. The natural breast may have a lower position or a more drooping shape.
Complications, while relatively rare, can play a role in the development of breast asymmetry too. Examples include capsular contracture, implant rupture, and implant displacement.
Finally, natural aspects of the healing process can cause your breasts to appear asymmetrical. Try not to judge your final outcome until you have fully recovered from reconstruction surgery.
Techniques for Improving Symmetry
Just as there are many causes of breast asymmetry, there are many ways to treat it. Minor breast shaping procedures are a normal and often necessary step to achieving great results after primary breast reconstruction. Specific techniques to improve breast symmetry include:
- Breast lift
- Breast reduction
- Liposuction
- Fat grafting
- Placing a breast implant
Keep in mind that even natural breasts are not perfectly symmetrical. That said, significant asymmetry can usually be corrected to improve your satisfaction with your final results.
Schedule a Consultation in Lone Tree
Call 303-706-1100 to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons. The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery proudly cares for patients from Denver, Lone Tree, and other areas of Colorado as well as across the country.