I’m 20 years old and almost positive that I have tubular breasts. One of my breasts is significantly larger than the other, my areolas cover most of my breasts, and they sag (especially the larger one). This has severely affected my confidence and I’m looking into plastic surgery. What procedure might be the best to look into?
Tuberous breasts are a congenital deformity in which the lower part of the breast tissue isn't developed. It is characterized by large diameter areola that tend to pooch out, and a short distance from the nipple to the bottom fold of the breast. Treatment usually requires areolar reduction and adjustment of the fold, as well as augmentation with an implant to replace the missing volume in the lower half. It may well require more than one surgery. You will have permanent scars, and you may not be able to achieve "normal" looking breasts. Plus, future pregnancy/breastfeeding, as well as weight fluctuations and aging, may negatively affect the appearance of your breasts. Seek out a surgeon with significant experience in breast surgery, particularly in patients with tuberous breast deformity. Good luck!
Dear allied194, it looks like you are looking to address at least 3 issues: 1. Tubular breasts deformity, 2. Assymetric breasts, 3. Ptotic (saggy) breasts.
All components usually can be addressed using breast lift ( fixes saggy breasts) technique designed to correct tubular deformity using relaxing incisions to allow expansion of tissue while reducing areolas. Asymmetry is corrected by removing excess tissue from larger breast, or adding an implant or fat graft to the smaller side.
I will be happy to try helping you with any additional questions.
Dear allied194,
Although we don't have photos to confirm that you have tuberous breast deformity, your description sounds consistent with it. There are many ways to deal with tuberous breast corrections, depending on the extent of the condition, size of the breasts, extent of ptosis etc. There are probably many American Board of Plastic Surgery certified plastic surgeons in your area that offer free consultations. Try going on a few to see exactly the grade of your tuberous breast deformity, your options for correction and the associated costs. Don't be surprised if you get 2 or 3 different opinions/recommendations from 2 or 3 different surgeons. We all have our own way of doing things, all of which are effective. Good luck!
Dr Francis gave you an excellent response to your question. Follow his advice and see a board certified plastic surgeon close to where you livie.
Without photos it is difficult to assess which procedures you may need, but it is not unreasonable to prepare yourself for a breast augmentation and a mastopexy (breast lift). Tubular breasts are complicated and challenging to treat. Be sure to find a surgeon who is experienced with these cases and who you feel comfortable with. Good luck!
Thank you for your question, and there are several excellent detailed responses to your questions below. Your description sounds like that of tuberous breasts and ( I agree) without photos and an exam it is difficult to say for sure. There are several excellent Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in your area who can see and evaluate you and review surgical options with you. Hope this helps.
You most certainly can achieve a “normal” look. Very rude thing to say and insensitive.
For the person who asked the question, I also have tubular breasts I’ve actually been examined by a consultant. Basically what can be done is something called breast reconstruction, they will do a breast lift, areola reduction and if needed fat transfer to the breasts to make them bigger & symmetrical🤍