To some degree, both breasts are usually different in size
although it is very minute that no one would even notice. However, some women have pronounced asymmetry
that makes it hard for them to choose clothing that would hide this aesthetic
problem.
One way to address a noticeable case of asymmetry is through
breast implant surgery. In this procedure, a plastic surgeon will use
either a saline- or silicone-filled implant to augment the smaller breast,
which in turn leads to balance.
However, breast implant surgery is only ideal for patients
who have no problem increasing their bust size; on the other hand, women who think
that their asymmetrical breasts are too large can opt for reduction mammaplasty
in which the tissue and fat of the larger breast are excised to make it
smaller.
The advantage of using implants over performing breast lift is that it is possible to
use less and shorter incisions, thereby the risk of visible scarring is almost
not a concern.
While it is possible to make an incision in the underarm and
within the navel’s rim during breast implant surgery, these incision sites are
not ideal when dealing with existing breast deformity. This is because doctors have to work far away
from the breasts, making it more difficult to create a balance appearance.
When dealing with asymmetry, it has become sacrosanct to use
the peri-areolar technique in which a U-shaped incision around the edge of
areola (dark pigmented skin around the nipple) is made; or breast crease
approach in which a hidden incision is made within the skin fold where the
breasts and chest meet.
In some cases, breast implant is performed in conjunction
with breast lift particularly if there is some obvious sagging in one or both
breasts.
The implant surgery, with or without breast lift, usually
requires one to two weeks off from work.
However, patients should always bear in mind that residual swelling and
tenderness often takes several months before they completely subside.
To support the new contour, most patients are required to
wear a surgical support bra for several weeks.
This special garment also encourages quick recovery, leads to better
contour, and minimizes swelling.
For at least two to four weeks, patients should avoid heavy
lifting, pushing, arm extension, and rigorous activities. However, it does not mean that they should
remain sedentary during the entire recovery as doing so can exacerbate the
swelling and may prolong the healing time.
As soon as possible, patients should take a gentle, short
walk every day to encourage quick recovery and minimize swelling.
