Breast Augmentation for Underdeveloped Breasts
There are plenty of reasons why women choose to undergo breast augmentation. For those with underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts, the procedure can help you achieve a fuller, shapelier figure, and boost your confidence.
Here, Dr. Stuart Baker and the team at The Center for Cosmetic Medicine in Decatur, IL discuss breast augmentation for underdeveloped breasts.
About Underdeveloped Breasts
Small or asymmetrical breasts are actually quite common. In fact, on average, there is a 15 to 20 percent difference between breast sizes in most women.
However, for some, these characteristics are exaggerated. This condition is known as breast hypoplasia, or micromastia, and is characterized by the underdevelopment of natural breast tissue after puberty.
There are two primary types of micromastia:
- Unilateral: This condition occurs when one side of the chest has breast tissue, and the other has little to none.
- Bilateral: This type of macromastia is characterized by a lack of natural breast tissue on both sides of the chest.
If micromastia is present, there is a significant chance that the breasts will be at least somewhat asymmetrical. In fact, in a study of 111 women with micromastia, 95 percent of them had breast asymmetry.
Causes of Underdeveloped Breasts
There are different reasons why women may have underdeveloped breasts. For example, the condition can be caused by:
- Genetics: There are congenital issues that can be present from birth. This includes a wide range of pectoral irregularities. However, one of the most common conditions is Poland syndrome, in which portions of the chest wall are missing. While other abnormalities may not become apparent until puberty, Poland syndrome is evident in infants.
- Lifestyle: Women who already have asymmetrical breasts due to underdevelopment may notice the condition worsens after pregnancy or nursing. Breastfeeding can cause the shape and size of the breasts to change, as they consistently swell and shrink, potentially changing the bust line.
- Body alignment: Believe it or not, the alignment of your body can play a significant role in breast asymmetry. When the body is in proper alignment, muscles and fat deposits typically become more evenly distributed. Certain behaviors or events, such as bad posture, stress, injuries, and even sleeping positions, can have a negative impact on the body’s alignment. As a result, asymmetry may become more pronounced.
Treatment for Underdeveloped Breasts
In cases of underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts, surgery is often the most effective option. Breast augmentation with implants can address unilateral and bilateral micromastia.
To address bilateral micromastia, the implants may be the same size. Those with unilateral micromastia typically have two different implant sizes placed to achieve optimal symmetry and aesthetics.
At our practice, each treatment is tailored to the needs of the individual.
In some cases, breast augmentation with implants may be combined with other treatments to achieve the desired result. This may include a breast lift, nipple repositioning, or even breast reduction in severe cases of asymmetry.
During a consultation, Dr. Baker will help design a customized treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Contact Us Today
If you are self-conscious about underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts, consider what breast augmentation can do for you. To learn more about this procedure, or any of the other treatments we offer, call us at (217) 877-9439 or (217) 877-9000 or contact us online anytime.
