Understanding and Treating Breast Asymmetry in Sydney

Last Updated May 2025

Breast asymmetry—where breasts differ in size, shape, position, or volume—is remarkably common, affecting 88-91% of women to some degree. While mild differences are entirely normal, significant asymmetry can impact both physical comfort and emotional wellbeing. At Dr. Scott J Turner‘s clinics in Manly and Double Bay, we provide comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment options for women seeking correction of breast asymmetry.

What is Significant Breast Asymmetry?

Although most women have some natural variation between their breasts, clinically significant asymmetry typically refers to differences of more than one cup size or notable shape disparities that may:

• Cause physical discomfort or postural issues
• Create challenges with clothing and bra fit
• Affect confidence and body image
• Impact daily activities and quality of life

A comprehensive study found that 65% of women exhibit more than one parameter of asymmetry. Research examining women seeking breast surgery found that 54-59% had asymmetry of the nipple-areola complex position, 41-47% had asymmetry of breast mound volume, and 10-12% had asymmetry of the chest wall.

How breast asymmetry presents can change throughout life and may differ among women of various backgrounds. A large study of over 54,000 women found that as women age, differences in overall breast size tend to become more noticeable, while differences in breast tissue density tend to decrease. While some variations were noted between different ethnic groups, these differences were primarily related to overall breast size rather than asymmetry itself.

Breast Asymmetry and Health Considerations

Most breast asymmetry is completely normal and simply a cosmetic concern, though new or sudden changes should always be checked by a doctor. While some studies suggest women with very noticeable asymmetry might have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer, this link is not a cause for alarm in most cases.

Regular breast examinations remain important for all women. During your consultation with Dr. Turner, he will conduct a thorough assessment to ensure your asymmetry is not related to any health concerns before discussing cosmetic correction options.

Psychological Impact of Breast Asymmetry

The psychological impact of breast asymmetry should not be underestimated, particularly during the formative adolescent years. Research has demonstrated that breast asymmetry can significantly affect body image, self-esteem, and social functioning in both teenagers and adults.

A study published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that adolescent girls with breast asymmetry scored lower on emotional well-being, self-esteem, and social functioning than their peers without breast differences. These psychological effects were similar to those experienced by girls with macromastia (overly large breasts), highlighting the significant impact that breast asymmetry can have on mental health during critical developmental periods.

For adult women, breast asymmetry can affect clothing choices, intimate relationships, and general confidence. Many women report feeling self-conscious about their asymmetry in situations where their breasts might be visible, such as while swimming or changing in public areas. This self-consciousness can lead to avoidance behaviors and reduced quality of life.

It’s important to recognize that the decision to seek correction for breast asymmetry is deeply personal and often motivated by a desire to improve quality of life rather than to meet aesthetic ideals. Dr. Turner approaches each patient with sensitivity and understanding regarding both the physical and emotional aspects of breast asymmetry.

Common Causes of Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry can result from various factors, often working in combination:

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman’s life play a significant role in breast development and can contribute to asymmetry:

• Puberty and Development: Uneven growth rates during adolescence are common, with one breast often developing faster than the other. While this asymmetry resolves naturally for many teenagers as development completes, it may persist into adulthood for others.
• Menstrual Cycle: Monthly hormonal shifts can cause temporary changes in breast tissue, sometimes exacerbating existing asymmetry.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnancy hormones and the physical changes of breastfeeding (especially if a baby favours one breast) can alter breast size and shape, potentially creating or increasing asymmetry.
• Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause affect breast tissue composition and may change the relationship between breasts.
• Hormonal Contraceptives: Some women notice breast changes when using hormonal birth control methods, which can sometimes influence symmetry.

Developmental and Congenital Conditions

Several developmental conditions can result in more pronounced breast asymmetry:

Tuberous Breast Deformity

Tuberous breast deformity is a congenital condition characterised by:

• Constricted breast base with a narrow footprint on the chest wall
• Herniation of breast tissue into the areola
• Enlarged or puffy areolar complex
• Underdeveloped lower pole of the breast
• Higher than normal inframammary fold (breast crease)

The condition can affect one or both breasts and ranges from mild to severe. When it affects only one breast or affects both to different degrees, it creates noticeable asymmetry that often requires specialised surgical correction techniques.

Research indicates that tuberous breast deformity is much more common than previously thought, with studies suggesting it affects approximately 27.6% of the general population. Among women seeking breast augmentation or reduction, the prevalence increases to about 50%, making it a significant cause of breast asymmetry that requires specialized correction techniques.

Breast Hypoplasia

Breast hypoplasia refers to the underdevelopment of breast tissue, resulting in smaller breast size. When this condition affects only one breast (unilateral hypoplasia) or affects both breasts to different degrees, it creates asymmetry. Unlike tuberous breasts, hypoplastic breasts typically maintain a normal shape but have insufficient volume.

Poland Syndrome

Poland Syndrome is a rare congenital condition characterised by:

• Underdevelopment or absence of the pectoralis major muscle
• Breast tissue underdevelopment or absence on the affected side
• Potential skeletal abnormalities of the chest wall
• Possible hand anomalies on the same side as the chest wall deformity

This condition presents unique reconstructive challenges requiring a comprehensive approach to address both the missing muscle and breast tissue.

Poland Syndrome is estimated to occur in approximately 1 in 30,000 people, though this figure may be an underestimate. It affects males more frequently than females, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 2:1, and predominantly affects the right side of the body. The condition requires specialized reconstructive approaches that often differ significantly from standard breast asymmetry correction techniques.

Other Congenital Conditions

Other developmental conditions that may contribute to asymmetry include:

• Amastia/Amazia: Complete absence of breast tissue or the nipple/areola complex
• Juvenile (Virginal) Hypertrophy: Excessive growth of one breast during puberty
• Various chest wall deformities affecting the underlying structure

Anatomical and Structural Factors

The structure of the chest and spine can create or exacerbate the appearance of breast asymmetry:

• Chest Wall Variations: Conditions like pectus excavatum (sunken chest) or pectus carinatum (protruding chest) can affect how breast tissue sits on the thorax.
• Scoliosis and Spinal Alignment: Curvature of the spine can cause the rib cage to be positioned unevenly, leading to apparent breast asymmetry even when the breasts themselves are similar in size.
• Posture: Habitual posture patterns can create the appearance of asymmetry, which may improve with postural correction.

Additional Factors Contributing to Asymmetry

• Weight Fluctuations: Breasts contain varying proportions of fat tissue, which may respond differently to weight changes.
• Previous Surgery or Trauma: Breast biopsies, lumpectomies, or injuries can alter breast shape and volume.
• Radiation Therapy: Treatment for breast cancer can cause tissue changes leading to asymmetry.
• Benign Breast Conditions: Fibroadenomas, cysts, or fibrocystic changes may affect one breast more than the other.

Comprehensive Assessment of Breast Asymmetry

At Dr. Scott J Turner‘s Sydney clinics, assessment of breast asymmetry involves:

Detailed Consultation

• Comprehensive history taking, including developmental timeline, pregnancy history, and previous surgeries
• Discussion of your concerns and aesthetic goals
• Thorough physical examination and measurements
• Assessment of breast tissue quality and chest wall structure

Advanced Diagnostic Tools

When necessary, we may use:

• 3D scanning technology for precise measurements and surgical planning
• Appropriate imaging studies to evaluate breast tissue
• Specialized assessment techniques for complex cases

Personalised Classification

We carefully classify your asymmetry to develop the most appropriate treatment plan:

• Volume asymmetry (size differences)
• Shape asymmetry (contour variations)
• Position asymmetry (different placement on chest wall)
• Complex asymmetry (combination of factors)

Treatment Options for Breast Asymmetry

Non-Surgical Approaches

For mild asymmetry or for patients who prefer non-surgical options:

• Custom Bras and Inserts: Specially designed bras with removable pads or custom inserts can create a more balanced appearance under clothing.
• External Prosthetics: For more significant asymmetry, professional breast prosthetics can provide a natural-looking solution without surgery.

These options may be particularly suitable for:

• Women still in the developmental stage (teenagers)
• Those who wish to defer surgery until after completing their families
• Patients with medical contraindications to surgery

Surgical Correction Approaches

For significant asymmetry, surgical correction offers the most definitive solution. Procedures are highly individualised and may involve one or a combination of techniques:

Breast Augmentation

• Uses implants or fat transfer to increase the size of the smaller breast
• Can employ different implant sizes to achieve balance
• Customized implant selection considering:
  • Size
  • Shape (round vs. anatomical)
  • Profile (projection)
  • Placement (above or below the muscle)

Learn more about breast augmentation options at Dr. Turner’s practice.

Breast Reduction

• Reduces the size of the larger breast to match the smaller one
• Reshapes breast tissue for improved contour
• Can improve comfort by alleviating weight disparity
• Maintains nipple sensation and function when possible

Learn more about breast reduction procedures at Dr. Turner’s practice.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

• Addresses positional asymmetry and sagging differences
• Repositions the nipple-areola complex
• Reshapes breast tissue for improved contour
• Often combined with augmentation or reduction techniques

Learn more about breast lift procedures at Dr. Turner’s practice.

Combination Procedures

Many patients benefit from combining techniques for optimal results:

• Augmentation with lift
• Reduction of one breast with augmentation of the other
• Complex tissue rearrangement for developmental conditions

Treatment Planning Considerations

Age-Appropriate Timing

• Adolescents: Generally, we recommend waiting until breast development is complete (usually by age 18) before pursuing surgical correction. However, in cases of severe asymmetry causing significant psychological distress, earlier intervention may be considered.
• Adults: For adult women, timing may depend on future pregnancy plans, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter surgical results.

Some surgical approaches can preserve breast tissue and milk ducts to maintain breastfeeding ability, while others may affect this function. This important consideration will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Turner based on your individual needs and future plans.

BMI and Health Factors

• Optimal Weight: Research shows that maintaining a BMI below 32 kg/m² for breast procedures helps minimise complications and optimise aesthetic outcomes.
• Weight Stability: Stable weight for at least 6 months before surgery helps ensure lasting results.
• Overall Health: Good general health is essential for optimal healing and recovery.

Why Choose Dr. Scott J Turner for Breast Asymmetry Correction

Dr. Scott J Turner is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in complex breast surgery, including the correction of developmental breast conditions and asymmetry. His approach combines:

• Advanced Surgical Expertise: Specialised training in the latest techniques for breast asymmetry correction
• Personalised Treatment Planning: Each surgical plan is tailored to your unique anatomy and goals
• Comprehensive Care: Support throughout your entire surgical journey
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern clinics in Manly and Double Bay offering the highest standards of care

Taking the Next Step

If you’re concerned about breast asymmetry, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Scott J Turner to discuss your options:

• Initial Consultation: A thorough assessment of your concerns and goals
• Personalised Recommendations: Honest advice about the most appropriate treatment approaches
• Comprehensive Information: Detailed explanation of procedures, recovery, and expected outcomes

Most women should wait until breast development is complete (typically around age 18) before pursuing surgical correction, though severe cases causing significant psychological distress in teenagers may be evaluated earlier.

To book your consultation, please contact our friendly team at either our Manly or Double Bay location.