Left breast much narrower than the right (Photo)

With the implant being on the smaller side, I wonder if this difference reflects an asymmetry of your natural breasts. If so, it could be improved with a slightly larger/wider implant seated a bit more medially (toward the center). The other scenario could be an underdeveloped pocket toward the center. The fix might involve correcting that and different implants to account for a slight volume asymmetry. Your original surgeon will have the best handle of what is going on. Good luck!

Dear Fierce984128,
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast augmentation surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process at 1 days post op.You will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues around the implants are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides and the implants drop to their final position, you will be able to see the final result of your breast augmentation surgery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello,
To provide an accurate assessment, it’s important to see what your breasts looked like before the procedure. If there was already some asymmetry between your breasts before surgery, differences in the location and shape of the pockets created during the procedure can cause a significant difference in appearance. However, if there wasn’t a noticeable difference beforehand, the post-surgery disparity is usually due to uneven pocket creation or inadequate muscle release on one side when the implant was placed under the muscle.

Based on your single photo, my guess would be implant rotation or asymmetric pockets. To provide a good answer would require a physical examination. I would suggest a return visit to your surgeon for proper evaluation and discussion of treatment options.

Your augmentation results are probably stable by now. You could consider having an evaluation by your plastic surgeon to discuss the significant asymmetry. There may be some intervention that could help.

Your surgeon knows better how you started, what was done and has the advantage of an in person evaluation. Your surgeon could probably offer the best explanation. Thoughts should not be given without more information. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Hi, with just a picture without a proper examination is difficult to determine, I wouldn't think a that is related to an incomplete muscle release. It might be an implant rotation (this will be diagnosed based on a proper physical examination), or even a misdiagnosed asymmetry that needed asymmetrical implants (in this case a before and after would help).
My advise, talk with your surgeon he is the one that will give you a more details regarding the result as well as a proper solution in case you want to fix it.

It’s not uncommon for patients to notice differences in breast appearance after augmentation, as there are several potential factors at play. Based on your description, here are some possibilities to consider:
1. Natural Asymmetry
o Most people have some degree of asymmetry in their breasts or chest wall, which can become more noticeable after surgery. If the asymmetry has been present from the beginning, this could be a contributing factor.
2. Implant Rotation
o With teardrop-shaped implants, rotation can lead to visible differences in shape. If the left implant has rotated slightly, it might give a narrower appearance. An imaging study, like an ultrasound or MRI, can confirm implant positioning.
3. Pocket Dissection Issues
o An incorrect or insufficiently expanded pocket on the left side might result in a tighter fit for the implant, making the breast appear narrower. This could also contribute to differences in implant positioning or projection.
4. Muscle Release
o If the muscle wasn’t fully released on the left side, it could be constricting the implant, affecting its shape and how it settles. This might also explain why the issue has been present from the start.
5. Capsular Contracture
o Although it typically develops later, early capsular contracture can cause the implant to feel firmer or appear misshapen. This is less likely since you mentioned it has looked this way from the beginning, but it’s worth monitoring.
Next Steps:
1. Consult Your Surgeon
o Bring these concerns to your surgeon for an in-person evaluation. They can assess whether the implant has rotated, the pocket needs revision, or if muscle release might help.
2. Imaging Studies
o An ultrasound or MRI can provide clarity about implant positioning and identify any rotation or structural issues.
3. Surgical Revision
o If it’s determined that the issue is due to a technical factor like pocket dissection or implant rotation, a minor revision surgery may help correct it.
4. Monitor and Document Changes
o Keep track of any changes in the appearance or feel of the breasts over time. If the asymmetry worsens, it could indicate a developing issue like capsular contracture.
It’s great that you’re happy with the overall result on the right side, and with careful assessment, the left side can likely be adjusted to match your expectations.

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation and to discuss options. It may be a capsular contracture causing the shape differential. If you were early in your recovery some asymmetry could still improve, but at this time you should be seeing your final result.

I would suggest going back to your surgeon to see if you have a capsule that is holding the implant in a more narrow position. Otherwise, you might have a smaller implant on that side. Your surgeon can discuss what is happening and how to fix it.