Breast symmetry surgery (breast reconstruction) is performed when the breasts differ noticeably in size or shape. There are a number of factors that may cause one breast to be larger or smaller than the other. Once any medical problems have been ruled out, you may wish to consider breast symmetry surgery. Women who have undergone mastectomies also often seek breast symmetry procedures to restore their bust line. In many cases, the surgery can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy. Breast symmetry surgery can give you breasts that look nearly identical to each other when you are wearing a bra.
At our clinic, we perform symmetry procedures in patients whose breast can be corrected with augmentation, lift, or reduction (to one or both sides).
You may have heard or read about the TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Muscle) flap procedure. We do not currently perform this procedure at our clinic, but an explanation is provided below for patient education.
The simplest way to reconstruct the breast is with implants or tissue expansion. The TRAM procedure takes a bit longer than getting saline implants and you will have to spend a few days in the hospital. During a TRAM procedure, the doctor moves tissue (muscle and fat) from the tummy to construct a new breast. The nipple and areola can be reconstructed after either procedure, usually with a skin graft a few months after the breast symmetry procedure.
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