In the medical world, there are a number of conditions that are not fully understood by the general public. One of these is tuberous breasts, a breast tissue development problem. In the following, we'll tell you more about this condition, as well as the causes and breast reshaping methods available today. Here's what you need to know!
What are tuberous breasts?
Tuberous breasts are an abnormality that occurs during puberty, when the mammary glands begin to develop. This condition is characterized by a number of specific features, such as:
- tubular or cylindrical breast shape - they develop an elongated shape with a narrow base and an unusual, tubular appearance;
- asymmetries - One breast may be significantly larger or smaller;
- large, prominent areolae - they can be disproportionately large, which emphasizes the abnormal appearance of the breasts;
- lack of volume in the lower part of the breasts - The lower area is underdeveloped, which contributes to the uneven appearance of the breasts;
- an unusually large space between the breasts.
The condition can range from mild to severe, and symptoms can be unilateral or bilateral. Although the physical appearance is the first to attract attention, the impact of tuberous breasts goes beyond the aesthetic. They can significantly influence a person's emotional health, particularly self-esteem. In some cases, they can even lead to breastfeeding difficulties [1].
Causes of tuberous breasts
The exact causes of tuberous breasts are not fully known, but it is generally accepted that genetic factors and certain developmental issues play an important role. Here are some of the possible causes and risk factors:
- genetics - There is evidence to suggest that tuberous breasts may have a genetic component, being more common in certain families. If there is a family history of tuberous breasts, the risk of developing the condition may be higher;
- developmental problems during puberty - During this period, abnormal breast tissue development can lead to tuberous breasts. This can be caused by an uneven distribution of breast tissue or insufficient growth;
- hormonal imbalances - Hormones play a crucial role in breast development, and any abnormalities in hormone levels can have a significant impact and contribute to tuberous breasts [2].
How are tuberous breasts diagnosed? Main signs and symptoms
Diagnosis for tuberous breasts often begins with a physical examination. Specialist doctor examine the breasts to identify the main distinguishing features of this condition, such as abnormal shape, large areolae or increased distance between the breasts. In some cases, medical imaging can play an important role in confirming the diagnosis. Mammography and ultrasound can help to identify any structural abnormalities of the breast, as well as assess the severity of the condition. The use of these diagnostic methods can be extremely helpful in establishing an effective treatment plan [1][2].
Treatment of tuberous breasts
Plastic surgery is the most effective method of correcting tuberous breasts. It may involve one or more procedures, depending on the case:
- breast augmentation - This procedure involves inserting breast implants to increase the volume of the breasts and give them a rounder shape that creates a natural look. The implants can be placed under or above the pectoral muscle, depending on the surgeon's recommendation [2][3];
- mastopexy (breast lift) - In cases where the breasts also have a sagging appearance, breast lift can be combined with breast augmentation to provide excellent results. This procedure helps to correct the position and shape of the breasts, giving a more natural look [2];
- areola reduction - If the areola is disproportionately large, areola reduction can be performed to bring it down to an appropriate size. This procedure can be combined with breast augmentation or breast lift to achieve optimal aesthetic results [2].
- lipofilling - Also known as fat transfer, this is an alternative to breast implants. The procedure involves taking fat from another part of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, which is then processed and injected into the breasts to increase their volume and reshape their shape. Lipofilling offers natural results and can be used to correct breast asymmetry [2].
Because for many women, tuberous breasts can have a negative impact on self-esteem and mental health, psychological counseling is also helpful in many cases, particularly before and after surgical procedures. A specialized therapist can help the patient understand and manage emotions about her physical appearance and the corrective procedures she is about to undergo.
So this condition can significantly affect women's lives and self-esteem. However, there are many effective methods of correction that can help to achieve a more natural and harmonious breast appearance. If you are dealing with this condition, it is important to consult a specialized plastic surgeon to discuss the right treatment options for you. Cronos Med Clinic offers a wide range of customized solutions to correct tuberous breasts, so that you can get the best results. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards a confident life with our experts!
Sources of information:
[1] "Tubular Breasts: What They Are, Causes & Treatment Options." Cleveland Clinic, 2020, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/tubular-breasts. Accessed on May 23, 2024.
[2] Lozito, Alessia, et al. "Review of Tuberous Breast Deformity: Developments over the Last 20 Years." Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open, vol. 10, no. 5, 1 May 2022, pp. e4355-e4355, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9187173/, https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000004355. Accessed on May 23, 2024.
[3] Watson, Kathryn. "Tubular Breasts." Healthline, Healthline Media, May 22, 2017, www.healthline.com/health/tubular-breasts. Accessed on May 23, 2024.