Can breast growth abnormalities occur after open heart surgery?

Question

I had open heart surgery when I was 18 months old. The scar is horizontal just under my chest. I am now 18 years old and my breasts havent really grown normally. They are oddly shaped and cup size B. If darwin is correct and genetics plays a role in my development then I shouldn't look this way. It makes me really insecure and I even get teased for it, scars and all.I also dont know how to talk to my mom about this so I guess this is a start.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Open-heart surgery can potentially damage the breast bud although is not very likely. When breasts start to develop there can be some abnormalities.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello taylor2547. It's unusual for heart surgery to affect the breasts. It sounds like you are self-conscious about your breasts now. I would suggest you consider a consultation with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who can address your concerns and provide with options about your breasts. Best, Dr. ALDO.

Kimberly Lu, MD · Answer

If the breast bud is disturbed during the surgery, breast development can be abnormal.  While the external scar may look like a line and be under your breasts, more dissection could have been done internally than what is seen externally.  Placement of the scar as an infant or toddler is also a guess as to where the inframammary fold will be as an adult.  The scar itself can restrict development.  I have seen these issues more often in burn patients than in patients with linear scars.  It is important to remember that many people have breast asymmetry who have not had any surgery (Darwin is not always correct :-))  If you are contemplating breast surgery (scar revision, augmentation), it will be very important to get a clean bill of health from your cardiologist before proceeding.  It is not unusual for patients who have had heart surgery as infants or toddlers to need a "tune up" or even a repeat surgery in their 20s or 30s and that should be done before any elective (optional) procedures.  Good luck!Any information in the publications, messages, postings, articles, online courses on the website should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to address individual medical needs. Your particular facts and circumstances will determine the plastic surgery treatment which is most appropriate for you.

Can breast growth abnormalities occur after open heart surgery?

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Can breast growth abnormalities occur after open heart surgery?

Answers (3)

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.