Breast Augmentation Surgery: No two breasts are the same

As the saying goes, eyebrows are like sisters, not twins, and the same concept applies to our breasts. If there are substantial differences between your breasts before surgery, additional procedures can be performed alongside breast augmentation to address these asymmetries. It is essential to acknowledge that these imperfections are natural occurrences within our bodies.

A breast augmentation will enhance your natural anatomy, resulting in a larger version of your existing breasts. However, increasing breast size may also make small imperfections more noticeable. Pre-surgery, patients might not even be aware of these minor asymmetries, but post-surgery, increased attention to our new breasts may heighten our awareness of subtle differences between the two.

It is worth mentioning some examples of imperfections that women sometimes comment on after surgery. 

SIZE DIFFERENCE

It is common for most women to have slight breast asymmetry, with one breast being slightly larger than the other. To correct significant size differences, an experienced Doctor can utilise two different-sized implants. However, it is essential to consider that implants are available in specific increments, and in some cases, the size difference may be too small to warrant two distinctly sized implants. Consequently, one breast may remain marginally larger than the other after the surgery. It is crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with Dr Chinsee to determine the most suitable approach for addressing breast asymmetry and to set realistic expectations for the final outcome.

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT SIZE DIFFERENCE

If the size difference is too small to correct with different sized implants, Dr Chinsee may discuss fat transfer to the smaller breast.

LOW SET BREASTS

If you have low set breasts, it’s important to remember they will still be low set after a breast augmentation.

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT LOW SET BREASTS

Dr Chinsee may discuss a procedure called an IMF lift – inframammary fold lift which involves creating a new crease further up the breast. This is a difficult procedure with a high complication rate.

WIDE SET BREASTS AKA I WANT CLEAVAGE

A frequent patient request is to achieve cleavage without relying on a bra. However, it's essential to recognise that if you have wide set breasts, this characteristic will persist even after undergoing breast augmentation. If cleavage without a bra is challenging for you currently, it is likely to remain so post-surgery. If cleavage is a significant consideration for you, it is crucial to have an open discussion with Dr Chinsee during the consultation process to explore the best options and set realistic expectations for the outcome.

 ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT WIDE SET BREASTS

Dr Chinsee might propose using a larger implant to address the gap; however, it is crucial to consider that this option will likely result in a significantly larger size than initially anticipated. Larger implants inherently carry more risks and potential complications. To achieve a more balanced appearance, a combination of a larger implant and fat transfer to the cleavage area may be recommended to enhance the overall contour. It is essential to thoroughly discuss these options with Dr Chinsee and carefully weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks before making a well-informed decision.

DIFFERENT HEIGHTS

The positioning of breast implants is influenced by the breast crease. In certain cases, breast creases may exhibit unevenness. As a result, when implants are inserted, this disparity can become more conspicuous due to the size augmentation. It is essential to be aware of this possibility and discuss it with Dr Chinsee during the consultation phase to address any concerns and ensure an informed decision-making process. 

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT BREASTS AT DIFFERENT HEIGHTS

This can be improved with IMF (inframammary fold) lifting and if it’s less than 1 – 1.5cm Dr Chinsee may do this correction during your procedure.

DIFFERENT ANGLES

Nipples don’t always point evenly forward at a perfectly straight angle, they may sit at different heights, and they may point in different directions.

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT BREASTS AT DIFFERENT ANGLES

Dr Chinsee may discuss procedures to correct the nipple placement if it is a concern of yours.

CHEST WALL ABNORMALITIES

Patients are typically well-aware of any significant chest wall abnormalities they may have. However, in some cases, there might be minor abnormalities that patients may not be fully aware of. During the initial consultation, Dr Chinsee will thoroughly assess the patient's chest wall and anatomy. If any minor abnormalities are identified, Dr Chinsee will promptly bring them to the patient's attention, ensuring full transparency and understanding before proceeding with any surgical intervention. Open communication during the consultation process is paramount to ensure that the patient is fully informed and comfortable with the proposed treatment plan. 

  1. Pectus excavatum: a congenital deformity of the chest wall that causes several ribs and the breastbone (sternum) to grow in an inward direction which forms a depression in the chest.

AREOLA AND NIPPLE SIZE

The process of inserting implants involves skin stretching, which may lead to stretched areolas. In some cases, the areolas might have been less noticeable before surgery, but due to the size increase, they become more prominent and apparent. It's essential to be aware of these potential changes and discuss them with Dr chinsee during the consultation process.

ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES TO CORRECT AREOLA OR NIPPLE SIZE

Dr Chinsee may discuss a surgical areola or nipple reduction.

SPECIAL MENTION - SUNSPOTS, LESIONS, MOLES

Occasionally patients will message me with concerns that they have developed a new mole or skin tag post-surgery. A quick flick through their pre-surgery pics usually shows that it was there before boobs.

It is important to acknowledge that achieving a "ideal result" is subjective, and individual anatomical asymmetries are natural. Cosmetic surgery is an art that relies on the knowledge of experienced professionals, and while favourable outcomes are anticipated, they cannot be guaranteed. As with any surgical intervention, there are inherent risks and potential complications. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the risk-to-reward ratio, especially when contemplating procedures aimed at correcting minor imperfections. A thorough consultation with Dr Chinsee will provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about your cosmetic goals.

– Dr Ian Chinsee (MED0000975196)
Registered Medical Practitioner, General Registration
Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery & Medicine [FACCSM (surg)]

All surgical or invasive procedures carry risks and potential complications. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner⁠.⁠ The images and videos shown on our website and social media pages are published with the consent of our patients. Results, risks and recovery will vary between individual patients and are dependent on factors including, but not limited to genetics, diet and exercise. As such these images do not guarantee that your results or surgical outcome will be the same. For more information on risks, recovery & revisions costs please click the link below (Recovery, Risks, Revisions) The content on our page is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Please contact us for more information

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Setting realistic expectations for your breast surgery

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Bottoming Out and Breast Implants