What It Means When One Breast Is Bigger Than the Other

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What It Means When One Breast Is Bigger Than the Other

If you’ve ever noticed a slight (or maybe not so slight) difference in the size of your breasts, you’re not alone. Is one bigger than the other, or a slightly different shape? Turns out breast asymmetry is more common than you think, and chances are, nothing is wrong. But why does it happen, and how can you correct it if it bothers you? Here’s the scoop, according to doctors.

Why Breast Asymmetry Happens

Hormonal Changes

According to Dallas OB/GYN Jessica A. Shepherd, MD, the most common reason for asymmetry is hormonal changes. “Breast asymmetry is typically seen in puberty where there are rapid growth spurts, and it is possible that one breast responds more to surging estrogen levels than the other.” Dr. Mariotti adds, “One breast may have a different percentage of true breast tissue versus fatty tissue, and may therefore react to hormonal changes differently. Genetics also play a big role. If a woman’s mother or grandmother had asymmetrical breasts, the chances are higher that she may have asymmetry as well.”

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Physical Development

In addition to hormonal changes during puberty, the body’s physical development can also affect the appearance of the breasts. “Any bit of scoliosis in the spine can not only make the breasts appear uneven. But if the scoliosis appears during puberty, the development of the breasts can also be different,” says Pasadena, CA plastic surgeon Lily Lee, MD. “Similarly, the shape of a person’s rib cage might not be the same from right to left. Even if a person’s breasts are exactly the same size and shape, if the foundation that they sit on (rib cage) is uneven, the breasts will appear uneven.”

Houston plastic surgeon Henry Mentz, MD says a woman’s athleticism can influence the share of her rib cage as well. “For those who are very athletic, the left rib cage may be slightly higher than the right. This is because the heart and surrounding muscles have lifted the rib cage slightly. Many people have this condition. Some patients who are right-handed or left-handed may also have a difference in the fullness of their muscle on the corresponding side. This is especially true if they play sports where they predominantly use one hand, such as tennis.”

How to Fix It (If It Bothers You)

Fat Transfer

“For mild asymmetry, we use fat transfer,” says Grand Rapids, MI, plastic surgeon Bradley Bengtson, MD. “This is because we can shape the smaller breast and add small increments of volume where we want it.” Fat transfer involves removing fat from one area of the body that has excess (typically the abdomen or thighs), cleaning it up and then injecting it into volume-deficient areas. Many doctors prefer using fat over other options because it’s from the patient’s own body. It also has a natural look and feel, and typically comes with a lower risk of complications.

Breast Implants

If the symmetry is more significant, a breast implant can be used to create balance. “Implants are usually 30–40 ccs different in volume for the next implant size up or down, so we can definitely make breasts more symmetrical. In addition, we have four different projections of implants,” explains Dr. Bengtson. “For patients with rib and chest wall deformities, which is extremely common, we can alter projection of the implant, and thus the breast as well.” Dr. Lee adds, “We now have such a range in sizes and shapes of breast implants that we can get asymmetries closer than ever before.”

A Breast Lift

A surgical lift can be done without inserting a breast implant in many cases. This is especially true if it’s to correct uneven nipples. “Sometimes one nipple may be lifted more than the other,” says Dr. Mentz. “When the nipple position is more than 20 millimeters higher than the other side, a breast lift can help even things out.” If it’s the nipples themselves that are different sizes, they can be surgically altered to match as well.

When Breast Asymmetry Is Actually Something Else

Because breast asymmetry is so common, be aware of what are considered normal changes in your breast size and tissue. And, what isn’t. Recognizing signs of breast cancer, which will affect one in nine women in their lifetime, is crucial. “Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have changes in how your breasts look or feel. These include any lumps or firm feelings that are near your breast or under your arm,” says Dr. Shepherd. “Also check for nipple discharge or changes that do not look like milk and are possibly bloody. Another sign could be skin on your breasts that is itchy, red, scaling, dimpled or puckered.”

Q: How common is breast asymmetry?
A: According to doctors, 91% of women have some degree of breast asymmetry.

Q: Is breast asymmetry a normal occurrence?
A: Yes, breast asymmetry is a normal occurrence and usually doesn’t indicate a medical issue.

Q: Can breast asymmetry be corrected?
A: Yes, breast asymmetry can be corrected through various surgical procedures, including fat transfer, breast implants, and breast lifts.

Q: What are the signs of breast cancer?
A: Signs of breast cancer include changes in breast size or shape, lumps or firm feelings under the arm, nipple discharge, and skin changes such as itchiness, redness, scaling, dimpling, or puckering.

Q: When should I see a doctor about breast asymmetry?
A: If you have any concerns about breast asymmetry or notice changes in your breast size or shape, it’s always a good idea to consult with a doctor or plastic surgeon for further evaluation and guidance.

Q: Can breast asymmetry be prevented?
A: No, breast asymmetry is a natural occurrence that cannot be prevented. However, regular breast exams and mammograms can help detect any abnormal changes in the breasts.

Q: Are breast implants a good option for correcting breast asymmetry?
A: Breast implants can be a good option for correcting breast asymmetry, but it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with a qualified plastic surgeon.

Q: Can a breast lift correct uneven nipples?
A: Yes, a breast lift can correct uneven nipples by adjusting the position of the nipples and creating a more symmetrical appearance.