Breast Asymmetry Surgery With Dr Hertess On the Gold Coast

Dr Isolde Hertess assesses breast asymmetry for patients on the Gold Coast and can explain what may be contributing to the difference, what surgical options may be suitable, and what limits exist based on anatomy and tissue quality.

What Causes Breast Asymmetry?

Breast asymmetry can happen for many reasons, and it is often present from breast development during puberty. It can also become more noticeable later due to changes in tissue and skin.

Common causes may include:

• Natural differences in breast development
• Differences in breast base width or chest wall shape
• Differences in nipple and areola position
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding changes
• Weight changes
• Ageing and skin changes over time
• Previous breast surgery, including implants or reduction
• Trauma or previous infection, in selected cases

In some situations, a breast lump or medical condition can also change breast shape. If there is a new change in breast appearance, pain, or a new lump, medical assessment and appropriate imaging may be recommended.

Surgical Options for Breast Asymmetry

The most suitable option depends on what is causing the difference between the sides. In some patients, the main difference is volume. In others, it is breast position, skin laxity, or nipple position. It is also common for more than one factor to be involved, which is why treatment is often customised and sometimes different techniques are used on each side.

Options that may be discussed include:

Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty

If one breast has less volume, implants may be discussed to increase volume. Some patients may need implants on both sides, with different sizes, to address asymmetry. Implant choice and placement are based on your chest width, tissue thickness, and skin quality.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

If the main difference is breast position or nipple position, a lift may be discussed. A lift reshapes breast tissue and can reposition the nipple and areola. In some cases, a lift is done on one side only, while in other cases, both sides are addressed.

Breast Reduction or Shaping
If one breast is larger, a reduction or reshaping procedure may be recommended. This surgical procedure can reduce volume and adjust shape. Reduction techniques often include lifting and repositioning the nipple and areola, depending on the plan.

Implant Removal and Replacement

If you already have implants and asymmetry has developed over time, implant exchange or revision may be considered. This may involve pocket adjustment, changing implant size or placement, or other steps to address your specific needs.

Fat Transfer to the Breast

Fat transfer may be discussed when the volume difference is small or when small shape adjustments are being considered. The volume change is usually modest, and more than one session may be considered because some of the transferred fat is absorbed during healing.

Nipple and Areola Surgery

If the main difference is in nipple or areola size or shape, nipple reduction or areola reshaping may be discussed. These procedures involve scars and carry risks related to healing and sensation, and this should be covered clearly during planning.

Combination Approaches

In many cases, addressing breast asymmetry involves more than one technique, such as a lift with an implant or a reduction on one side with a lift on the other. The exact approach depends on your anatomy and what can be done safely.

It is also important to understand that perfect symmetry is not realistic. Surgery focuses on increasing symmetry rather than making the breasts identical, because natural anatomy is rarely the same on both sides.

Planning Breast Asymmetry Surgery With Dr Isolde Hertess

Planning starts with understanding what differences you notice and what you want to change. Dr Hertess will assess breast size, shape, breast fold position, nipple position, and skin quality, then explain what options are suitable and what limitations exist.

Planning also includes:

• Scarring and where scars are likely to be placed
• Recovery and time off work or exercise
• Risks that apply to your health and the planned technique
• Breast health history and whether imaging is recommended
• Any previous surgery details, if relevant

For patients on the Gold Coast, the consultation is the time to ensure you have clear information about what surgery can address and what can still vary during healing.

Recovery After Breast Asymmetry Surgery

Recovery depends on the procedure performed. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and tightness in the early weeks. Activity is usually limited for a period, especially heavy lifting and higher-impact exercise, because it can affect healing.

Follow-up appointments allow healing to be reviewed and concerns to be addressed early. It is also normal for breast shape to settle gradually as swelling reduces, so the early appearance is not the final result.