Can I get one breast fixed?

Question

Hi there I have severe scoliosis which has deformed my chest quite a bit causing one breast to hang lower and have more lose skin since my rib cage does not pulled it taught on my left. I had a breast lift done 6 months ago but did not like the results as my left breast was still larger and saggier as my surgeon did not seem to account for my scoliosis. I feel like it would be an easy fix as my other breast is exactly the results I was hoping for. Is it possible for just one breast to be fixed?

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Breasts will always be different left to right before and after any surgery. This includes chest wall, breast fold, size, shape, nipple position, muscle, scoliosis, etc.

You can certainly have revision of one breast to better match the other side. This should improve size and sag issues and should be easier than revising both breasts.

Remember, better symmetry, especially on bra or clothing but they will never be 100% identical.

Further discussion with your/a plastic surgeon is recommended.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ejsss,
generally speaking, it is possible to perform surgery only on one breast. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Clearly an examination in person would be required to specifically answer your question and make recommendations, but one sided surgery is always possible. I recommend discussing your concerns with your plastic surgeon, who knows you best. If you remain dissatisfied, please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon whose results and reviews resonate with you. Best of luck to you.

George Volpe, MD · Answer

Every individual is unique and every anatomical issue is similarly unique. For sure one breast can be fixed. The real question is what are realistic expectations. It is very difficult to achieve symmetry if one is starting out with significant asymmetry and only one side is being changed. The goal should be to improve. It is a whole lot easier if one starts out symmetrical and the surgeon does the same thing on each side, although perfect symmetry may not be achieved, we often get pretty close. If one has scoliosis, often there are significant changes in the underlying rib cage and also in the shoulder position. In other words, usually if scoliosis is severe enough, one shoulder is usually lower than the other. This also makes decision-making difficult. Should one have symmetrical breasts relative to shoulder position or relative to the position that a patient naturally exhibits. A good discussion with your original surgeon is advisable, to see what options here she feels you could go through to achieve better symmetry. That surgeon also knows the nuances of the 1st surgery you had. If you do not wish to return to your 1st surgeon, it is best to bring any records that you have and seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon with good experience in this type of scenario.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes you can elect to only have one breast addressed to improve asymmetry.  Make sure you discuss with your surgeon what you can realistically expect in terms of results so that you can make an informed decision.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, you can just have one breast tightened and leave the other breast as is. Please discuss this with your surgeon.

Can I get one breast fixed?

Answers (6)