What Causes Tuberous Breasts?

As a leading plastic surgeon in the UK, Mr Wilson has treated many patients who are looking for correction of tuberous breasts. This condition, also known as tubular breast deformity, although it’s not uncommon, is known to significantly impact a person’s self-esteem and body image. If you are considering a correction procedure or have tuberous breasts and would like to understand a little bit more about them and their causes, then we are here to share our knowledge of the different types of tuberous breasts and let you know how you may be able to achieve a more natural and balanced breast shape that suits your individual body.

What Are Tuberous Breasts?

Tuberous breasts, also referred to as tubular breasts, are a condition which is present from birth, where breast development is restricted. This results in a constricted, elongated, and sometimes droopy breast appearance. Tubular breasts can affect one or both breasts, which can then lead to asymmetry.

Causes of Tuberous Breast Deformity

While the exact cause of tuberous breast deformity isn’t entirely clear, it is generally thought to arise from a developmental issue during puberty. Normally, breast tissue expands evenly. However, in the case of tuberous breasts, this expansion is disrupted. The fibrous bands in the breast fail to grow normally, causing a constricted base and a protruding, often herniated, areola.

What are the Different Types of Tuberous Breasts?

Tubular breasts vary, and they are typically classified into three types:

Type I: Mild deformity with underdevelopment of the lower inner quadrant of the breast. The breast appears slightly constricted but not severely deformed.

Type II: Moderate deformity involving underdevelopment of the lower quadrants, leading to a more pronounced constriction and a higher breast fold.

Type III: Severe deformity with significant underdevelopment of the entire breast base, resulting in a tubular shape with a narrow base, high fold, and pronounced areolar herniation.

A different type of correction approach may well be necessary depending on the type of tuberous breast you have. (Please note that you do not need to identify your type. A specialist breast surgeon will be able to do this for you.) 

The Mental Health Impact of Tubular Breasts

Even though tuberous breasts are not uncommon and are not a sign of being unhealthy in any way, they can really affect a person’s psychological well-being. Many people who develop this condition can experience embarrassment, low self-esteem, and social anxiety as a result. The lack of symmetry and unusual shape can make finding properly fitting clothing and bras challenging, which can, understandably, result in feelings of frustration and sadness. It’s important to recognise that if you feel like this, you are not alone, and it is widely acknowledged that tubular breasts are not just a cosmetic issue but one that can affect overall quality of life. 

Tuberous Breast Correction

Modern cosmetic surgery now offers highly effective solutions for tuberous breast deformity. Corrective procedures combine various methods that are able to meet the individual needs of the patient. The main goals of tuberous breast correction are to expand the constricted breast base, reduce areolar herniation, and achieve symmetry.

Tissue Expansion: Surgeons expand the tight breast tissue to create a more natural shape. This can involve internal scoring, where the tight bands within the breast are cut, or a staged approach with tissue expanders to gradually stretch the skin and tissue.

Areolar Reduction: To address an enlarged and protruding areola, surgeons perform a periareolar mastopexy, excising a donut-shaped area around the areola to reduce its size and reposition it.

Implants and Fat Grafting: Breast implants add volume and shape, while fat grafting enhances contour and symmetry. Together, these techniques help achieve a fuller, more rounded breast appearance.

Incision Placement:

Depending on the patient’s needs and preferences, incisions can be placed around the areola, in the inframammary fold (under the breast), or through the armpit to minimise visible scarring.

Correction of tuberous breasts can be done in two ways:

1) A single operation during which the constriction band is released, the breasts are lifted, and the shape is corrected. Implants are used to enhance the volume of the breasts which may be lacking.

2) As two separate operations, the first of which will correct the shape, then implants are inserted around 6 months later.

The benefits of correcting tuberous breasts in one stage are a single recovery period as opposed to two, and a lesser cost. However, having the procedure in two separate stages can reduce the overall risks of complications and revision.

Tuberous Breast Surgery Before and After

The before and after results that we see through tuberous breast correction are always impressive. The feedback we receive from patients post-op will often mention a significant boost in self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance. Viewing tuberous breast deformity before and after photos can provide a realistic expectation of the potential outcomes, and if you choose to have your Surgery with Mr Wilson, he will talk you through realistic expectations from your surgery during your consultation(s). These images demonstrate the effectiveness of the procedures in creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing breast shape. All of the surgeries shown on our website were carried out by Mr Wilson. You can see more tuberous breast correction before and after images here.

Tuberous Breast Correction on the NHS

In the UK, getting tuberous breast correction through the NHS is possible, but it is not widely offered. The service is limited, with strict criteria to meet. The NHS might cover the surgery if the deformity causes severe physical or mental distress, and this can be proven, meaning patients must go through a rigorous assessment to see if they qualify. This is why many people in the UK choose private breast surgery for faster and more personalised care.

Considerations of Living with Tubular Breasts 

Addressing the psychological and emotional impact of living with your tuberous breasts is essential before deciding on surgery. Tubular breast deformity is not a condition that you need to treat, and many people come to terms with their breasts without the need for surgery. Consulting with a mental health professional or joining support groups can provide valuable emotional support and help individuals cope with the challenges associated with the condition. Discussing concerns and expectations with a qualified plastic surgeon can alleviate anxiety and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the treatment process, but you should never feel pressured into surgery due to social norms or any information you have found on the internet. This article is for information only, and if you choose to meet with Mr Wilson for a consultation, he will provide you with realistic advice tailored specifically to you. 

Tuberous Breast Correction in Bristol, Gloucester, Bath and Newport

As a lead breast consultant for the NHS in Bristol, Mr Wilson is one of the UK’s most well-respected plastic surgeons and also sees patients in Gloucester, Bath and Newport.

His goal is always to provide compassionate and effective care and advice, helping patients achieve the breast shape they are happy with.

If you are considering tuberous breast correction, always consult with a qualified surgeon to explore the best approach for your individual needs. With the right treatment, you can achieve a more natural and symmetrical breast appearance, which could boost your confidence and improve your quality of life.