Breasts asymmetrical after surgery: How could my Plastic Surgeon have messed up?

Question

I had a breast reduction in February. My left breast was bigger than the right one. The Plastic Surgeon knew this - or maybe he forgot? My breast size was a 36DD, and I am small framed. After the surgery I am now a 34C which is awesome, however, the left breast is still a lot bigger than the right one. The doctor said in a year from surgery he can do some revisions but I will have to pay for it. Shouldn't he have gotten it right in the first place? Why do I have to pay again for his mistake?

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Breast reduction surgery is difficult. It is very artistic. Sometimes our perception is plastic surgeons that things are symmetric at surgery can be skewed by decreasing swelling at a later date. It is hard to gauge that. Therefore asymmetries can occur. How your plastic surgeon subsequently handles your revision is up to him or her.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your experience. Asymmetry can happen. However, it is important to note that every woman's breasts are asymmetric in size and/or shape, naturally. Payment terms are defined by the surgeon. While most surgeons may offer a discount for revision surgery, it is really up to the surgeon to decide this.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Sorry for the "mishap" but best to ask the surgeon these questions. We over the internet CAN NOT respond for the operative surgeon.

Jason Mussman, MD · Answer

Asymmetry after a breast reduction can occasionally happen.  Fortunately, this is a complication that can be improved upon.  I recommend communicating your concerns with your surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your disappointment after breast reduction surgery; although online consultants can empathize, they will not be able to provide you with an objective assessment or advice. Assuming you are working with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can demonstrate significant experience helping patients with revisionary breast surgery, I would suggest that you communicate your concerns/questions in a calm and constructive fashion. You may wish to give him the benefit of the doubt; sometimes, despite best efforts (and your plastic surgeon has not necessarily “messed up”). Hopefully, working together, you will be able to come up with a plan to achieve your goals,  in a cost-effective fashion.  Best wishes.

Edward J. Domanskis, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Some asymmetry can occur and it can usually quite easily be corrected even with liposuction. I even do breast reductions with liposuction alone which leavers usually virtually no scars. I normally do not charge my patients for revisional surgery except for the anesthesiologist or operating room if necessary.

Breasts asymmetrical after surgery: How could my Plastic Surgeon have messed up?

Answers (6)

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