What are Tuberous Breasts or Tubular Breast Deformity?
Tubular or tuberous breasts refer to a congenital deformity where the breast shape and areola distort due to incomplete development during puberty. They are caused by a deficiency of skin tissue, tightening the skin either at the bottom, the center, or sides of the breast, preventing average growth. An ideal breast shape is round and distributed equally across the chest. Tubular breasts may be wide set, elongated, and pointy, with high breast folds and an enlarged, puffy areola.
The condition ranges in severity from mild to significant and can affect one or both breasts. There are often substantial asymmetries between the breasts, mainly if the condition only affects one breast. There can also be herniation of breast tissue into the nipple-areola complex that can exaggerate areola size compared to the rest of the breast. Women often report substantial embarrassment and body image issues from tuberous breast deformity.
However, surgical correction can create a more rounded, symmetrical appearance that restores a woman’s confidence in her body.
What are the types of tubular breast deformity?
They can be divided into Four Types:
- Type I: Underdevelopment of the lower medial quadrant but normal laterally.
- Type II: Underdevelopment of the lower and medial quadrant.
- Type III: Underdevelopment or absence of the entire fold with a severe deficiency in volume and shape.
How to Correct a Tubular Breast Deformity?
Correction of tuberous or tubular breast deformity typically involves surgery on one or both breasts. In some cases, the procedure is performed in a single session. Other women may require a staged approach, where an expander is placed into the breast first. The implant is complete once the breast has sufficient space to accommodate it. The two-step approach is typically recommended when there are significant differences between the two breasts’ size and shape that need to be corrected. Adjustment of the nipple and areola may also be necessary to create a natural, proportionate appearance. Dr. Barrett will help you determine the right technique for your surgery.
How Does the Tubular Breast Correction Surgery Work?
Dr. Barrett will likely perform your surgery under general anesthesia. However, local anesthesia with sedation is also possible for some patients. He will create an incision in the affected breast to allow for the breast implant insertion, taking care to locate the incision in the skin’s natural creases to minimize visible scarring after your procedure. If there is sufficient space for the implant, it will be placed into the breast pocket at this time. If not, an expander will be set to create the implant space in the following months. Dr. Barrett may address both breasts during surgery or just the affected breast if surgery on one will bring symmetry and balance to both.
What Is the Duration of the Procedure?
The timing for tuberous breast correction will vary, depending on the amount of correction needed. Once Dr. Barrett has completed the procedure, he will suture incisions closed, using a layered technique that reduces tension on the skin as it heals for a cleaner, less noticeable scar. You will be able to return home a few hours after your surgery is over.
How Safe is Tubular Breast Correction?
When an experienced surgeon with meticulous skills performs a tubular breast correction surgery, it is safe, like any other breast augmentation procedure.
What to Expect During the Recovery Time?
The procedure’s common side effects include mild bruising, swelling, and some soreness in the treated area. The use of compression garments or elastic bandages to help reduce the impact of symptoms is recommended while healing takes place. Dr. Barrett will prescribe pain medication and provide you with instructions on caring for your incisions and minimizing any potential complications after the procedure. As a general note, patients usually return to work and other activities within a few days. It is best to avoid any strenuous activities for a few weeks to give the breasts ample time to heal. Dr. Barrett will see you in his office once a week for a few weeks to monitor your recovery progress and address any potential issues as they arise.
How Long After the Tubular Breast Correction Can I See the Final Results?
After surgery, patients will gradually see their results appear as healing occurs and swelling and bruising subside. It could take several months for the complete surgery results to be realized.
How Much Does A Tubular Breast Correction Cost?
The cost depends on the type and complexity of breast augmentation. It also increases if you want an additional procedure such as a breast lift, doughnut mastopexy, or nipple-areola correction.
How Do I Find Out if I have Tubular Breasts?
Women in generally good health with any of the following concerns may be good candidates for tubular or tuberous breast correction:
- Breasts with a conical rather than a round shape
- Narrow or constricted breast base
- The top half of the breast is flat
- Breasts have significant sagging or drooping
- Unusually wide spacing between breasts
- Enlarged, puffy, areola
- A substantial difference between the breasts regarding size, shape, or positioning
You might notice symptoms in just one breast or both at the same time. Plastic surgery can be a solution for either situation as it restores symmetry while enhancing the shape and appearance.
How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Tubular Breast Correction?
Tuberous breasts may not cause significant medical concerns. Still, the psychological toll can make decisions to move forward with correction somewhat challenging. It cannot be emphasized enough the importance of choosing the right surgeon. A doctor who will take adequate time with you and understand your body to ensure you feel comfortable with the surgery and the results you hope to achieve. It is also vital the surgeon you choose has experience in breast correction than merely breast enhancement as a treatment. Tuberous breasts can be much more complicated than breast enlarging or lifting. Dr. Barrett has the expertise to provide you with natural, beautiful solutions while offering a standard of care that will create a positive experience throughout.
FROM DR. BARRETT
“Understanding the anatomy and type of tissue or skin deficit in a tuberous breast patient is the most crucial step. Many surgeons simply offer breast augmentation to tuberous breast patients, and that is a mistake. Precise breast release based on the patient’s anatomy is required to release the breast and provide a more normal shape fully. I love my tuberous breast patients because when they see their new look, they blossom into more confident and satisfied women.”
Dr. Barrett is trained and experienced in complex corrective procedures, making him an excellent choice for addressing your tuberous breast deformity. He will take the necessary time to assess your situation and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and desired outcome. With compassion and professionalism, Dr. Barrett and his staff at Barrett Plastic Surgery are ready to hear your concerns and help you find a solution that works for you.
The Art of Symmetry and Balance
Tuberous breasts can be a problematic issue for a woman, affecting her appearance, the way her clothing fits, and most of all, her self-esteem. Surgical correction offers beautiful, long-lasting results that can restore a woman’s confidence in her body. To explore your options and learn further about correcting tubular breasts, contact Barrett Plastic Surgery today at 310-598-2648.
Dr. Daniel Barrett reviewed the information about tubular breast deformity. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the form below.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Case #94131
Areola Donut Mastopexy Breast Lift – Bilateral Silicone Smooth Round Mentor Moderate Profile Plus
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Tubular Breast Deformity with 375cc silicone implants.