What causes Tuberous Breasts?
The exact cause of tuberous breasts is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormal breast development during puberty, possibly influenced by genetics and hormonal factors.
Breasts form within a layer of tissue between the chest skin and underlying chest muscles. When the tissue is excessively tight, it restricts the lower part of the breast’s development, causing it to sit higher and appear narrower as a result. The tissue is strong around the edges of the breast but weak beneath the nipple. This causes the breast tissue to concentrate behind the nipple and stretching it.
In many cases, the breast can be underdeveloped and remain small. Tuberous breast can effect one or both breasts and the degree/grade can be different for each.
Characteristic of Tuberous Breasts
People who have tuberous breasts generally have one or more of the following:
- Pointed or elongated breast shape: The breasts may appear elongated or cylindrical, lacking the typical round appearance.
- Puffy areolas: The areolas (the darker pigmented area around the nipples) may protrude or appear puffy.
- Higher breast crease: The natural fold beneath the breast IMF (inframammary fold) is often higher than usual.
- Reduced breast volume: Tuberous breasts typically have less breast tissue, leading to smaller breasts and can have a wide space between them.
Diagnosis of Tuberous Breasts
There are four classifications of tuberous breasts although some Surgeons use a 3-classification system.
Grade I (Mild)
Surgical correction for Grade I tuberous breasts may involve a less invasive procedure, such as periareolar mastopexy (aesthetic breast lift) or the use of breast implants
Grade II (Moderate)
Surgical correction often involves a combination of procedures, including releasing constricted breast tissue, reshaping the breast, and repositioning the areolas, sometimes with the addition of breast implant
Grade III (Severe)
Correcting Grade III tuberous breasts typically requires more extensive surgery, which may include a combination of tissue release, reshaping, areolar repositioning, and breast augmentation with implants
Grade IV (Severe with Pseudoptosis)
Grade IV tubular breasts are the most severe form of this deformity and often involve pseudoptosis, which means the breasts sag in addition to having the typical tubular features. Correction requires comprehensive surgery, including addressing the pseudoptosis by lifting the breasts (mastopexy) in addition to the procedures mentioned for lower-grade classifications
Treatment
Surgical corrections such as breast augmentation, asymmetry correction and/or surgical IMF (inframammary fold) adjustment.
If you suspect you have tubular breasts, the only sure way to get a definitive diagnosis is by consulting a doctor or plastic surgeon.
Tuberous Breast Surgery The procedure
Every surgery is tailored to individual patients needs and the options for tuberous breast surgery are as follows:
Option One – Breast Lift
A Breast Lift (Mastopexy) procedure may reposition the breasts higher on the chest and correct ptosis (sagging). It may also improve the placement of the areolas if they are enlarged or not aligned.
Option Two – Breast Augmentation
This involves the placement of breast implants to increase breast size and improve shape. Implants may help fill out the breast tissue and provide a more balanced appearance.
Option Three – Areola Reduction
If the areolas are stretched or appear puffy due to tuberous breasts, a surgeon can perform an areola reduction procedure to resize and reshape them.
Option Four – Fat Transfer
In some cases, fat grafting may be used to enhance breast shape and correct minor irregularities. This involves transferring fat from one part of the body to the breasts.
Risks and Complications of Tuberous Breast Surgery
Like all invasive surgery Tuberous Breast surgery has several risks and potential complications which can include but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Anesthesia risks
- Implant related issues
- Changes in nipple or areolar sensation
- Loss of breast sensation
- Asymmetry
- Healing issues
- Unsatisfactory results
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
- Need for revisionary surgery
It’s crucial to choose a qualified plastic surgeon with experience in Tuberous Breast correction. They can help minimise risks, provide realistic expectations, and guide you through the surgical process. All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of tuberous breast surgery please visit the risks of surgery page.
Recovery from Tuberous Breast surgery
Following Tuberous Breast surgery patients can anticipate a period of initial discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Pain management medications are typically prescribed to alleviate any pain or discomfort during this phase.
Wearing a supportive surgical bra is essential to minimise swelling and provide the necessary support to the newly reshaped breasts. The duration of bra usage may vary depending on the surgeon’s recommendations.
Patients should plan for a temporary reduction in physical activity, particularly strenuous exercise, for a few weeks following surgery. This period allows for proper healing and reduces the risk of complications.
Swelling is a common post-operative side effect, and it gradually subsides over several weeks to months. The final results of the surgery will become more apparent as the swelling diminishes.
Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments is essential to reduce the likelihood of complications and achieve the best possible outcome.
Every individual’s recovery experience is unique, but with patience and commitment to proper aftercare, most patients can expect improved breast shape as they fully recover from tuberous breast surgery.
Skin Care and Scar Management following Tuberous Breast Surgery
All invasive surgery will result in some form of scarring. Our team of experienced plastic surgeons are meticulous when it comes to incision/scar placement and minimization. It can take over 12 months for your scar(s) to completely mature.
Our Dermal Clinicians and your Specialist Plastic Surgeon may advise you on Scar Management options such as Healite II Low Level Light Therapy treatments, to further reduce the appearance of your scars.
Tuberous Breast Surgery Cost
The cost of surgery can be influenced by several factors such as the type of implants chosen, complexity of the procedure, the length of stay in hospital, the surgeon’s fees and other incidental expenses. It is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon for a detailed and accurate quote for Tuberous Breast surgery.
Correcting tuberous breasts is challenging but with care and the right surgical planning it is possible to get excellent results. Tuberous breasts are very variable and to a certain extent that dictates what is possible. The exact surgical technique varies a great deal depending on the patient. Often because of asymmetry surgeons will take different approaches to each breast and for information about a tuberous breast surgery payment plan, please click here. In some instances Medicare and Private health insurance may cover Tuberous Breast surgery if it is deemed medically necessary.
Why Choose Coco Ruby Plastic Surgery?
Not all Surgeons have the same experience or intensive training and testing qualifications. Be sure you learn the differences between a Plastic Surgeon, a General Surgeon, a Cosmetic Surgeon or other types of Surgeon. Also, when choosing a Plastic Surgeon word of mouth is always a great way to gain further knowledge.
Choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon means you are choosing an accredited recognised plastic surgeon that performs surgery in an accredited hospital. Look for members of FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons), ASPS (Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons), ASAPS (Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) or ISAPS (The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) as some of the Qualifications of your Plastic Surgeon.
About Our Surgeons Who Specialise in Tuberous Breast Surgery
It is important to research a Surgeon’s qualifications and experience before deciding on the Surgeon. You can check your surgeons’ credentials at AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). Our Breast Reduction Surgeons, Dr Craig Rubinstein and Dr Gary Kode are all highly experienced, fully qualified specialist plastic surgeons with current FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) memberships
How to Book your Initial Consultation for Tuberous Breast Surgery advice
- Email us or Call on (03) 8849 1400 to arrange your surgeon consultation appointment.
- Browse the Recovery and Surgery GUIDE books to surgery and/or the Before and After Tuberous Breast Surgery – Augmentation Photos.
- A Referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or Medical Specialist is now required (as of 1st July 2023).
- If your GP (General Practitioner) declares your tuberous breast as a medical condition the surgery is corrective and you may have insurance coverage (private health insurance and Medicare).
- Schedule a confidential consultation with your selected Specialist Surgeon by paying the $300 booking fee.
What to Bring to your Surgeon Consultation
- Bring a friend or relative to help discuss the information and your choices
- Take lots of notes and read the documents provided thoroughly
Want more information before scheduling your Surgeon consultation?
- Request more information about the procedure – call or contact us
- Browse our Frequently Asked Questions including how to choose a Surgeon for your procedure
