Overview: What Are Tuberous Breasts?
Tuberous breasts (also known as tubular breasts) are a congenital malformation of the breast base. This condition affects both the aesthetic and psychological well-being of patients and is often associated with:
- Underdevelopment of the lower pole of the breast
- A tight, high inframammary fold
- Enlarged and herniated areolas
- Asymmetry in volume and shape between the breasts
The malformation can vary in severity and is classified into three grades, each requiring tailored surgical correction.
Tuberous Breast Surgery: Goals and Approach
The goal of tuberous breast reconstruction is to create symmetrical, natural-looking breasts with appropriate volume and shape. Depending on the degree of malformation, we typically use a two-step strategy:
- Lipofilling (fat grafting):
This is performed in at least one session to add volume and soften the constricted lower portion of the breast. It uses the patient’s own purified fat, harvested from another area of the body. - Breast implants or additional lipofilling:
In moderate to severe cases, a silicone breast implant may be placed after lipofilling to complete the reshaping. For milder deformities, a second round of lipofilling alone may suffice.
Each treatment plan is highly personalized, and the techniques may be combined to correct the base constriction, improve projection, and refine areolar shape and symmetry.
In Practice
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used for most procedures.
- Hospitalization: Usually performed as outpatient surgery or with a short overnight stay.
- Preparation: A breast MRI and mammogram are generally prescribed before the operation.
Post-op: Wearing a compression bra is recommended for several weeks to support the new breast shape. Swelling and mild discomfort are common but manageable with pain medication.
Questions and Answers About Tuberous Breast Correction
Is surgery for tuberous breasts covered by health insurance?
Yes. Tuberous breast correction is classified as a congenital malformation, and therefore can be covered by social security—especially when implants are involved. Prior authorization from the medical advisor is required.
How many procedures are typically required?
Most patients need at least two procedures—one initial fat injection and either a second injection or an implant placement. Each case is evaluated individually.
Can this surgery correct breast asymmetry as well?
Yes. Tuberous breast deformities often include significant asymmetry, which is addressed during reconstruction using custom implant sizing and/or differential fat injection volumes.
How much does tuberous breast correction cost?
The cost of tuberous breast surgery varies depending on several factors, such as the techniques chosen, the healthcare facility, and the practitioners’ fees. A detailed quote is provided during the preliminary consultation. The price generally includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and any hospitalization costs.
Before / After
