March 2020 Procedure of the Month: Let’s Talk About Breasts
Posted February 25, 2020
Size
Breast size is the most common concern for women when contemplating breast surgery, whether this is addressed with a breast enhancement or a reduction procedure. Cup size is not the most accurate way to determine size. The size of a breast should be based on a woman’s body habitus and her activity level. Asymmetry or unevenly sized breasts are very common. Typically, it is mild but can be significant even in normal development. This can be addressed surgically, if desired, to create a more symmetrical appearance using an augmentation or reduction procedure.
Shape
Breasts develop into many different shapes ranging from conical to round, perky to sagging. Breast shape can change over time and can be affected by hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Puberty or childbirth can create significant changes in the shape of a woman’s breasts. Exercise and weight gain or loss can also affect the shape of breasts. Tubular breasts are characterized by a constricted lower pull of the breasts. They usually have a very prominent and wider areola than average. There is no “normal” shape designated to a breast.be
Areolae
Areolae can come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. The color of the areola can range from light pink to brown. A woman’s nipple can be flat or slightly puffy. There may also be a few hairs along the edge of the areolae which is completely normal and can be safely removed if desired. The areolae can change shape and color with pregnancies and hormonal fluctuations. There is not a standard shape and size of the areolae, they can vary just as much as the shape of a woman’s breasts. The circumference can be surgically altered with minimal downtime if desired.
There is a large range of normal variations as breasts come in all sizes and shapes. There is no “normal”, just a multitude of contours that make up a woman’s body. It is a personal decision, if you are not comfortable with your breasts, to consider a surgical option. By working with a board-certified plastic surgeon, who can listen to your concerns, a treatment plan can be determined that allows you to be comfortable with your body and embrace your femininity.