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Cosmetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Roger T. Brill, MD, FACS PA
352-331-7987 800-428-8419
Breast Enhancements
Breast Asymmetry Breast Asymmetry, or a discrepancy between the size and shape of the breasts, is extremely common, but infrequently discussed. Whether mild or severe, these differences can be the source of considerable embarrassment and self consciousness. Often noticed during the early stages of breast development and becoming more clear as the breasts mature, the breasts may differ variably in size (for example, one side may be an A cup and the other a B, C, or even D), and there may be a substantial discrepancy in the shape as well (one breast may droop, and the other may be higher and more projected). Quite often, Breast Asymmetry is related to a condition known as "tuberous breast", wherein one or both breasts demonstrate to varying degrees a narrow, constricted form with a shortened distance of the crease below the breast to the areola and a bulge of breast tissue through the areola which may be enlarged. In many cases where the differences are greater than one half a cup size, or are difficult to camouflage in clothing or with bra padding, self esteem can be truly be affected. Breast Asymmetry Correction Methods: Sculpting of One or Both Breasts Types of Breast Implants: Type of Breast Asymmetry Incisions: Periareolar Incision - at lower border of areola Inframammary Incision - within crease of breast fold Axillary Incision - within the underarm Circumareolar Incision - around areola Lollipop - around areola with vertical line Consultation: During your consultation with Dr. Brill, he will thoroughly discuss your goals and desires with you. No two individuals with breast asymmetry are alike, and every individual's goals regarding surgery are unique. There are often numerous potential solutions, and the procedure, or combination of procedures, for the correction of breast asymmetry that suit you best will be reviewed in detail with you. When one breast is larger and the other smaller, the larger breast may be reduced (Breast Reduction or Breast Lift) to match the smaller breast, the smaller breast may be "sculpted" to improve its shape and made larger with an implant to match the bigger breast (Breast Augmentation or Augmentation Mammoplasty), or both may be made larger with implants by placing an appropriately larger implant on the smaller side, and smaller implant on the larger side to achieve balance and symmetry. After a complete medical history and a thorough discussion of the factors in your breast asymmetry that concern you most, Dr. Brill will examine you, making meticulous measurements that will both qualify and quantify the degree of asymmetry in both size and shape. He will then give you specific instructions preparing for surgery, including guidelines for eating and drinking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, supplements and medications. As with any surgery, please be sure to inform us: About any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements). If you have been exposed to significant amounts of radiation, have a history of unusual or If you have any serious medical conditions. About all medications you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription). If you have had previous plastic surgery. Dr. Brill will assess your physical and emotional health and discuss your specific cosmetic goals for the procedure. This exam will allow Dr. Brill to determine the procedure right for you. In some cases, Dr. Brill orders routine laboratory tests prior to surgery. During your consult, take this time to ask all the questions you have about the surgery you are considering. He will be happy to address any concerns you may have. A Good Candidate: In general, the best candidates for Asymmetrical Breast correction are: In addition, the candidate for Breast Asymmetry surgery also should understand that scarring on the breast, although diminishing over time, will be permanent. The above is only a partial list of the criteria that Dr. Brill will consider in determining whether or not a Breast Asymmetry procedure is appropriate for you. Procedure Details /Expectations: Breast asymmetry correction usually takes two to four hours depending on the complexity of the breast asymmetry and. Your breast asymmetry correction surgery will be performed in our state of the art surgical suite where Dr. Brill and his staff are dedicated to ensuring your complete comfort during and after the procedure. The surgery may be performed under either local anesthesia with sedation. You will go home shortly after your surgery is completed. A Breast Augmentation, Breast Reduction, Breast Lift, or a combination of these procedures is used to correct the symmetry of your breasts. With these procedures, incisions may be made around the areola, under the fold of the breast, or in the armpit area depending on your body, desired outcome and Dr. Brill’s recommendations. With breast augmentation, Dr. Brill forms a pocket to hold your implant, which is centered under the nipple. He removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin and then contours a new breast shape and repositions the nipple and areola. Breast Lift surgery elevates and re-sculpts the breast tissue and skin envelope to provide a more youthful shape and position. Once the implant is in place or the new breast shape is formed, stitches are used to close the incisions and your breasts are bandaged with gauze dressings. A special surgical bra is placed over your breasts after the surgery to ensure that your breasts are held in the best position for healing. Recovery: Following the correction of Breast Asymmetry, you are cared for in our recovery room by our licensed registered nurse, and when you are fully awake and comfortable, you will go home on the same day with a friend or family member. Dr. Brill suggests taking seven days for recovery when feasible, although it is indeed possible to return to work or school as early as four or five days after your Breast Asymmetry correction procedure (provided there is no heavy lifting involved). Other Options: The correction of Breast Asymmetry is most often performed as an isolated procedure. For those individuals who desire additional plastic surgery enhancements, Breast Asymmetry correction may be combined with Inverted Nipple Correction, Breast Lift (Augmentation Mastopexy), Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), and non-surgical Facial Rejuvenation procedures. Cost / Insurance: This procedure is considered cosmetic and therefore not covered by insurance. Approximate Cost Range: $2,000-$5,000. This price is only an average as fees vary according to patient needs. At your consultation, you will be given exact fees, which include but are not limited to surgery, operating room, anesthesia related fees, and follow up visits. ** This is only an Average. Fees vary according to patient needs.** Risks / Complications: The most common risks associated with this type of surgery include, but are not limited to, a reaction to the anesthesia used, excessive bleeding, infection, visible scarring, possible irregularities, and possible changes in nerve sensation. The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual. Frequently asked Questions: What is Breast Asymmetry correction Surgery? Breast Asymmetry correction surgery is the process of making the breasts appear more symmetrical in appearance and even in size. The three major determinants of breast appearance are the shape, size, and position of the nipple. The need for breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction may be necessary to achieve better symmetry. Am I a good candidate for Breast Asymmetry correction surgery? Most reputable board certified plastic surgeons prefer not to perform cosmetic surgery prior to the age of 18 however due to the reconstructive nature of this procedure, often times exceptions are made based on the physical and mental maturity of the patient. In general, the best surgical results are obtained when surgery is performed a minimum of two years after the onset of menses. At the point in time, the breasts have usually achieved stable growth. It is not uncommon for every woman to notice a slight difference in the size of her breasts. Any changes in sizing that occur quickly should be discussed with your physician immediately. The rule of thumb is that most breast size differences are less than a cup size in difference. How is Breast Asymmetry correction surgery performed? Surgery for the correction of breast asymmetry may involve augmentation on one or both breasts, reduction mammoplasty on one or both breasts, a breast lift on one or both breasts, or even a combination of these procedures. Upon examination, Dr. Brill, your board certified plastic surgeon, will discuss your best options of achieving breast symmetry. How will I feel following my surgery? You are most likely to be tired and sore for a few weeks following surgery. Most discomfort can be controlled by prescription medications. Specific recovery will be dependant upon the exact nature of the surgery. Most scars will fade over time but they will never completely disappear. Follow your surgeon's advice on when to resume normal activities. How will my new breasts look? Your final results are dependant upon a number of factors including how well your body heals. The goal of Dr. Brill is to make your breasts as symmetrical as possible. You will have scarring and your breasts and the symmetry of your breasts will improve. How should I choose my surgeon? No matter what type of surgery you're considering, one of the most important factors in success is the surgeon you choose. Many surgeons today are performing cosmetic surgery without the benefits of any formal training. Dr. Brill is certified by The American Board Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Click here to check Dr. Brill’s credentials. Notes: You are also at increased risk for complications from liposuction if you have diabetes, poor circulation, heart, lung or liver disease, smoke, have a family history of blood clots, take certain medications, etc. You'll want to discuss your medical history thoroughly with Dr. Brill before you choose to undergo surgery. If you would like to learn more about correction of Breast Asymmetry in Gainesville, Florida, we invite you to meet with Dr. Brill for a private consultation at our office, located at 6520 NW 9th Boulevard in Gainesville, by calling: 352-331-7987 or 1-800-428-8419 The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to this procedure and should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the result. The best method of determining your options is to consult with Dr. Brill to answer specific questions related to your situation. For more information about our Disclaimer Page and Privacy Policy.
poor scarring, or cold sores– like herpes or shingles.
18 years of age or older
Not currently pregnant or nursing
In good physical health and psychologically stable
Wanting to improve their appearance
Realistic in their expectations
Having this surgery for the first time
With few exceptions, all sutures placed are dissolvable and no suture removal in necessary. When a breast lift or breast reshaping is a part of the procedure, small drain tubes will often be used that are removed in three to five days following surgery. Your breasts will appear full and firm immediately after breast asymmetry surgery, and swelling and bruising may be present for up to three weeks. A special supportive bra is worn for three to five days, which is then replaced by a sport bra. Normal bras and bikini tops can be worn after about three weeks.
Light aerobic activity (elliptical or Precor, stationary bicycle, light treadmill) may be resumed as early as seven days following the correction of breast asymmetry, and more strenuous activity is begun at three weeks (excluding chest exercise, which is resumed at six weeks). The breasts reach their final shape and feel approximately three months after correction of breast asymmetry. Your relationship with Dr. Brill does not end after your surgery; he will see you often through the first weeks and months following your procedure, and will advise you on all matters of breast health including exercise, activity, breast self examination, and the need for future mammography as you require. Dr. Brill will be available to you at any time during your recovery period.
