Volume Problems

The Small Breast


Every woman relates to the size of her breasts differently. There is no single ‘ideal’ which can encompass the multitude of cultural and environmental factors which create an individual’s attitude to her breasts. Thus, the ‘normal’ Asian breast is smaller than that found in Europe or North America, but within each of these societies, individuals will differ immensely in their perception of the ‘ideal’.


There is no medical issue with having small breasts (also known as hypoplasia). It is usually the woman herself who feels that her breasts are too small. Surgical treatment is aimed purely at improving the breasts appearance in the patient’s eyes.


The Large Breast


For the same reasons outlined above patients may feel that their breasts are too big over a broad range of actual breast sizes. Breast hypertrophy can, however, also lead to medical symptoms such as, skin irritation, back pain etc.
Surgical treatment reduces the volume, lifts the breast and reduces and moves the nipple and areola to a more aesthetically pleasing position.


The Sagging Breast


Again, this situation is defined by the perception of the patient rather than any hard-and-fast measurements. It is purely a cosmetic problem which can be defined as a patient who is happy with the appearance and volume in a bra, but is unhappy with the appearance without a bra.


Surgical approaches include reducing the skin and some of the volume to improve the shape.


Tubular breast


Tubular breast or tuberous breast is a more complex problem which has many variations. The lower part of the breast does not fully form and appears constricted by tight overlying skin. The fold under the breast can be shifted upwards and the remaining tissue tilts downwards. The nipple and areola may also be stretched. In its mildest form, the breast may simply be slightly flattened in the lower half. Many forms exist, but it is useful to distinguish between those of normal volume and those with small breasts where the gland is also underdeveloped.