Do I Have Severe Tubular Breasts Which Need Extensive Surgery?

Question

Hi, I'm a 19 year old female... Recently, after trying to figure out why, I began to suspect that I have tubular breasts. I researched possible "fixes" and surgery seems to be the only option if I am to do something about it. However, I worry about how much surgery I would have to undergo... I do not want a particularly bigger size per se; I'd just like to look a bit more "normal". I also suspect I have a supernumerary nipple under the left breast. will that cause problems?

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

From your pictures, it does appear that you have a moderate degree of tuberous breasts. There are difefrent ways to correct this and acheive a good aesthetic outcome. Usually, this involves releasing the constricted breast tissue internally, as well as releasing the lower breast tissue so that it can expand with the pressure of an implant. An implant can help provide a better shape to the breast without changing the volume dramatically. However, I always tell patients that the recovery process is usually at least three months for the breasts to really start to appear "normal". I hope this helps.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for the good posted photos! If only desire correction of the tubing. Than one or 2 operations could correct. But if you want increased size with implant than may take 3 operations. Seek in person evaluations from boarded PSS in your area.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Yes, you have some signs of a tuberous breast with a very prominent puffy areola and moderately narrow base.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Thank you for posting your photos.  Yes, you do have a mild/moderate tuberous breast.   This will require interventions to 1) release the constriction bands that cause the tuberosity 2) release the lower pole of your breast tissue and 3) perhaps decrease the areolar size.  Please visit with a board certified PS to learn more about your options.

	Dr. Basu

	Houston, TX

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and good quality pictures.

	Yes, your pictures demonstrate some classic signs of constricted (tuberous) breast. Some of these characteristics  include a very narrow base, short distance from areola to inframammary fold, tight (constricted) lower pole of the breasts, relatively wide space between the breasts, "puffy" and areola and some degree of ptosis (drooping).  

	Treatment involves surgical procedures which may or may not include breast implants ( depending on your goals).

	I would suggest that you seek consultation with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience helping patients with tuberous (constricted) breasts.

	Best wishes.

Do I Have Severe Tubular Breasts Which Need Extensive Surgery?

Answers (8)