Tuberous Breast Correction

Tuberous & Tubular Breast Correction in London

Tuberous breast correction is a surgical procedure to correct the appearance of tubular or tuberous breasts. Tubular breasts are unusual in that they appear in keeping with a conical shape, like a tube, rather than round in shape. They have a small, constricted base with a breast mound, which has the shape of a narrow cone and overly large nipples and areolas. Tubular breasts can affect one or both breasts. It is quite common for tubular breasts to differ from one another, and it is also common for the areola area to have an enlarged and domed appearance.

The condition is thought to be due to disordered growth of the immature breast, leading to abnormally shaped, small and sagging breasts or breast hypoplasia. Tuberous breasts are also referred to as tubular breasts. Tubular breasts are surprisingly common and typically occur in younger women. Although there are no medical risks of tubular breasts, they can result in a significant cosmetic deformity, leading to a significant loss of confidence. Tubular breasts can vary in the grades of deformit,y with mild, moderate and severe tubular breasts. Whilst the true explanation for why women develop tubular breasts is still unknown, some say it is a congenital condition, and tubular breasts tend to become obvious during puberty.

Is there a solution to the correction of tubular breasts?

Tubular breasts can only be corrected with a reconstructive surgical procedure. There are no non-surgical treatments proven to be effective for tubular breasts. At Centre for Surgery, our surgeons use the latest surgical techniques, including breast augmentation using both silicone breast implants and/or fat transfer for effective and permanent correction. For women who are not keen on breast implants, a mastopexy or breast lift is another option for tuberous breast correction. Although tuberous breast correction is a challenging procedure to perform, our surgeons have years of experience and treat many cases of tubular breasts annually. Having tubular breast correction at Centre for Surgery can restore your confidence.

What Do Tuberous Breasts Look Like?

Tuberous breasts, also known as constricted or tubular breasts, are a type of breast shape anomaly that can affect both men and women. This condition occurs when the breast tissue fails to develop fully during puberty, resulting in a narrow, elongated shape with a higher than normal breast crease. The breasts may also appear underdeveloped or “puffy” due to an excess of glandular tissue.

RELATED: What Are Tuberous Breasts?

Tuberous breasts can take on a variety of appearances, but some common characteristics include a narrow base, a high crease beneath the breast, and a conical or elongated shape. The areola may also be enlarged and/or herniated due to the excess glandular tissue. In more severe cases, the breasts may be very small or asymmetrical.

As shown below, tubular breasts result in a deficiency in the breast’s vertical and/or horizontal dimensions, frequent underdevelopment of the breast, and often a herniation of breast tissue into the areola accompanied by an expansion of the areola.

tuberous breast correction London — Tuberous breasts affecting both sides. There is underdeveloped breast tissue with herniation of breast tissue toward the areola and expansion of the areola on the left side.

There are various grades of tuberous breasts, ranging from mild to severe, based on the extent of the deformity. In mild cases, the breast may simply have a narrow base with a slightly elongated shape, while in severe cases, the breast may be severely constricted with a narrow base and a protruding areola.

Tuberous breasts can cause physical discomfort, such as pain or discomfort during exercise or difficulty finding clothing that fits properly. They can also have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and body image, leading to feelings of self-consciousness or embarrassment.

Fortunately, there are options for correcting tuberous breasts. Tuberous breast correction surgery involves releasing the constricted breast tissue and reshaping the breast to achieve a more natural, symmetrical appearance. This may involve a combination of breast augmentation, breast lift, and tissue reshaping techniques, tailored to the individual’s specific needs. The surgery can help alleviate any physical discomfort and improve a person’s confidence and self-esteem.

What Is Tuberous Breast Surgery?

Tuberous breast surgery, also known as tuberous breast correction, is a breast reconstruction procedure that is used to address tuberous breasts, a condition where the breasts are constricted, narrow, and tubular in shape due to incomplete breast development during puberty. This condition can have a profound impact on a person’s self-esteem, body image, and physical well-being, as well as cause discomfort.

Tuberous breast surgery involves releasing the constrictions and reshaping the breasts to create a more natural, symmetrical appearance. The procedure may involve a combination of breast augmentation, breast lift, and tissue reshaping techniques, tailored to the individual’s specific needs. The surgery can help improve the size, shape, and position of the breasts, resulting in a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

What causes Tubular Breasts?

Tuberous breast deformity is a condition where the breasts do not develop properly during puberty, which can affect one or both breasts. The exact cause of this condition is not fully understood. However, some doctors believe it may be congenital, resulting from an unknown event during fetal development that becomes evident during puberty. Regardless of the underlying cause, tuberous breasts do not develop enough tissue to become round, large, and perky, resulting in narrow, tube-shaped, and small breasts. In some cases, the tissue surrounding the nipple also fails to develop correctly, leading to puffy, droopy nipples.

Types of Tuberous Breasts – Three Grades – What are the different degrees of tubular breasts?

Tuberous breasts, also known as tubular breasts, are a breast shape anomaly that can affect the size, shape, and position of the breasts. There are three grades of tubular breasts, each with different characteristics and severity.

Grade 1

Grade 1 tubular breasts are the mildest form of the condition. They are characterised by a minimal constriction at the base of the breast, which can cause the breast to be slightly narrow and elongated in shape. The areola may be enlarged or puffy, but the nipple typically points outward and is not severely affected.

Grade 2

Grade 2 tubular breasts are a moderate form of the condition. They are characterised by a more pronounced constriction at the base of the breast, which causes the breast to have a more tubular shape. The areola and nipple may be puffy, and the nipple may be slightly inverted or displaced from its normal position.

Grade 3

Grade 3 tubular breasts are the most severe form of the condition. They are characterised by a significant constriction at the base of the breast, causing the breast to have a very narrow, tube-like appearance. The areola and nipple may be severely displaced or inverted, and there may be a significant amount of breast tissue in the upper part of the breast.

Tuberous breasts can affect one or both breasts and can be a source of physical discomfort and psychological distress for individuals who have them. Tuberous breast correction surgery can help to reshape and reposition the breast tissue to create a more natural, symmetrical appearance. The surgical technique used will depend on the individual’s unique anatomy and desired outcome.

Tuberous Breast Correction Before & After Photos

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Benefits of Tuberous Breast Surgery

Tuberous breast surgery can provide numerous benefits for individuals with tuberous breasts. Here are some of the main benefits of tuberous breast surgery:

Improved breast appearance

Tuberous breast surgery can help reshape and enlarge the breasts, creating a more natural, symmetrical appearance. The procedure can correct the narrow base, elongated shape, and enlarged areolas associated with tuberous breasts, resulting in a more balanced and proportionate appearance.

Increased self-confidence

Tuberous breast surgery can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and body image. Individuals who have been self-conscious or embarrassed about their tuberous breasts may feel more confident and comfortable after the surgery, leading to an improved quality of life.

Alleviated physical discomfort

Tuberous breasts can cause physical discomfort or pain due to their shape or size. Tuberous breast surgery can alleviate these symptoms by correcting the shape and size of the breasts, resulting in a more comfortable and natural feel.

More clothing options

Individuals with tuberous breasts may have difficulty finding clothing that fits properly due to their unusual breast shape. Tuberous breast surgery can provide a more normal breast shape, allowing for more clothing options and a wider range of styles to choose from.

Enhanced overall health

Tuberous breast surgery can also provide health benefits for some individuals. For example, women with tuberous breasts may have difficulty breastfeeding due to their breast shape. Tuberous breast surgery can correct this problem and improve the overall health of both mother and child.

RELATED: How to Fix Tuberous Breasts

Preparation for Tubular Breast Correction

Our surgeons strongly believe that the success of any cosmetic surgery procedure, including tubular breast correction surgery, is optimised with the following of all of the surgeon’s pre-procedure instructions.

We always strive to go above and beyond to make sure all our patients are optimally prepared for breast lift surgery – physically, mentally and emotionally.

During your consultation with your surgeon, several measurements will be taken of the breast and chest area, including the nipple position. An assessment will also be made of the skin quality and any skin laxity present. The optimum size of the implant will be chosen based on your treatment goals. Your surgeon may use 3D computerised imaging to model how you could look after surgery accurately. Our surgeons also specialise in fat grafting to the breast. In this procedure, fat is harvested via liposuction and reinjected into the breasts to correct contour abnormalities. Breast fat transfer can be performed alone or combined with breast implants for precise correction of tubular breasts.

Surgical Options for Tubular Breasts

The only way to treat tubular breasts is through corrective surgery, which can be performed using traditional surgical reconstruction methods, with or without implants, or through fat grafting. It’s important to note that regular cosmetic surgery may not be enough to fully correct tubular breasts. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a surgeon who has experience in treating tubular breasts specifically.

Conventional Tuberous Breast Correction Techniques

The standard approach to correcting tuberous breasts typically involves surgical tissue reshaping, akin to a breast lift, and may also include the use of breast implants. A periareolar incision, which encircles the nipple, is commonly employed.

Tuberous breast reconstruction typically encompasses the following steps:

Glandular scoring, a technique that involves releasing the constricted tissue surrounding the breast’s base to create a more rounded appearance
Distributing some of the breast tissue into the lower portion where it is deficient
Refashioning the inframammary fold to establish a distinct lower breast curve
Elevating the nipple to a more proportionate position through a breast lift
Reducing the size of enlarged areolas
Minimising the distance between the breasts
In cases where an individual’s natural breast tissue is insufficient for satisfactory results, breast implants may be necessary. This could involve two separate surgeries, although a single procedure may suffice for grade I tuberous breasts. For grade II and III cases, a staged process over 9 to 12 months is often required.

Breast tissue expanders are typically used only in severe, grade III cases, while direct implantation is the standard for grades I and II.

During the initial surgery, temporary inflatable implants called tissue expanders are placed.
These expanders gradually stretch the chest muscles and skin, making room for the permanent implants.
The expanders remain in place for several weeks or months and are routinely inflated by the surgeon.
Once the breasts have reached the desired size, a final corrective surgery is performed, and the expanders are replaced with permanent implants.

In the majority of cases, breast implants alone are insufficient, and surgical tissue reshaping (lifting) is necessary to achieve optimal results. This procedure addresses sagging and imparts a more youthful and perky appearance to the breasts.

What are the benefits of conventional tuberous breast correction?

Elimination of the tubular appearance by creating a rounded breast base
Enhanced breast symmetry
Larger and fuller breasts with improved aesthetic appeal
Refined breast contour and a more pronounced cleavage
Long-lasting outcomes
Reduced distance between the breasts

What are the drawbacks of conventional tuberous breast correction?

Given the varying degrees and types of tuberous breasts, traditional tuberous breast correction surgery may have specific limitations:

Exposed implant edges, if there is insufficient tissue in the lower part of the breast, leading to an unnatural appearance
Implant placement might result in a wide cleavage
“Double bubble” effect can occur if the implant descends below the lower part of the breast due to inadequate lower breast support.
Extended recovery time may be necessary after implant insertion
Potential loss of sensation in the nipples
Risks of hematoma, seroma, or postoperative infections
Scarring on the breasts, although these can be effectively concealed

Fat Grafting for Tuberous Breasts

Fat grafting has emerged as a popular and less invasive solution to remodel tubular breasts without using implants.

During a fat grafting procedure, excess fat is removed from one area of the body through liposuction and then injected strategically into the breasts to remodel and inflate them. Unlike traditional implants or breast reduction, fat grafting does not involve cutting or manipulating the glandular tissue in the breast. Instead, the surgeon targets specific areas of the breast and enhances them as needed, resulting in a more natural-looking breast mound.

Fat grafting also has several advantages over traditional breast surgeries. The targeted injection of fat can improve the shape and volume of the breasts without causing significant damage to the glandular tissue. Moreover, fat grafting does not require scoring of the breast tissue, resulting in a lower risk of surgical complications such as hematoma, seroma, and infection. Additionally, fat grafting can help soften the breasts, reducing their firmness and pointy appearance.

While fat grafting has numerous advantages, it also has some disadvantages to consider. For example, some women may not be able to increase their breast size with fat grafting significantly. In such cases, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired long-term outcome. Moreover, pre-expansion techniques may be necessary to enhance the breasts and improve their long-term consequences.

Another potential drawback of fat grafting is that if too much fat is injected at once, fat necrosis (cell death) can occur, resulting in the formation of hard lumps in the breast tissue. However, experienced plastic surgeons are skilled at avoiding these complications and ensuring that the procedure is performed safely and effectively.

Hybrid Breast Augmentation – Breast Implants combined with Fat Grafting

For women seeking breast augmentation, a hybrid breast augmentation, or composite breast augmentation, combining both breast implants and fat grafting, can offer several advantages over traditional techniques. This approach is beneficial for treating tuberous breasts. In this condition, the breast tissue does not develop correctly, resulting in a narrow base, a pointed or tubular shape, and an overall asymmetrical appearance.

Combining breast implants and fat grafting allows the surgeon to achieve more volume, more strategic contouring, and a more pronounced cleavage. Moreover, the results of hybrid breast augmentation are more long-lasting than those of fat grafting alone. By using both techniques, the surgeon can enhance the breasts’ overall appearance and create a more natural-looking outcome.

However, traditional breast implant techniques have several limitations when it comes to treating tuberous breasts. For example, breast implants alone are not ideal for the lower and outer aspects of the breast, which are often covered by thin skin and lack underlying breast tissue. This can make the implants more visible, creating an unnatural appearance.

When breast implants are placed under the chest muscle, it can limit the expansion of the medial breast, resulting in a wide cleavage. Additionally, the placement of implants under the muscle can cause a permanent crease on the lower aspect of the breast if the implant does not fully expand the natural breast tissue.

Another issue with traditional techniques is the use of glandular scoring, which involves cutting and scoring the glandular tissue to release the constriction and allow for breast implant insertion. This process can be painful, require considerable recovery time, and increase the risk of nerve damage, bleeding, and breast haematoma.

To mitigate these risks and explore a less invasive solution, fat grafting is now being utilised to treat tuberous breasts. By using fat grafting, the surgeon can selectively thicken areas of the breast tissue and create a more natural-looking curve. This technique can also be used in combination with breast implants to enhance the breasts’ overall shape and achieve a more natural-looking outcome.

Recovery after Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery – What to Expect

Corrective cosmetic breast surgery, including tuberous breast reconstruction, is generally considered safe. However, as with any breast augmentation surgery, postoperative restrictions on movement and activities are expected.

Here’s what to anticipate during recovery from tuberous breast reconstruction:

Swelling and puffiness may persist for up to four weeks after surgery.
Some pain and discomfort are normal but can be managed effectively with oral pain medication.
Plan for at least one week of rest at home, with no work and minimal physical exertion.
You can usually resume exercise within 3-4 weeks following surgery, gradually increasing intensity as tolerated.
High-intensity cardiovascular activities should be avoided for 12 weeks to promote optimal healing.
Your surgeon may advise wearing a supportive (surgical) bra for a month after surgery to help with healing and shaping.
To minimise pressure on the breasts, sleep on your back for a month after surgery.

While you will likely notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your breasts immediately after tuberous breast reconstruction, the final results may take 1-2 months to settle fully. The swelling should have subsided by this point, and any bruising should have dissipated. Over the following months, your breast scars will mature and gradually fade, blending in with the surrounding skin. Remember that individual healing times and experiences may vary, so it is essential to follow your surgeon’s specific postoperative care instructions and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.

Tuberous Breast Surgery Costs London - How Much Does Tubular Breast Surgery Cost in London UK? Prices & Fees

The cost of tuberous breast surgery in London, UK can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the extent of the surgery and the surgeon’s experience and expertise. At Centre for Surgery in London, the cost of tuberous breast surgery typically ranges from £6,500 to £9,500.

The exact cost of the procedure will depend on the individual’s needs and goals, and will be determined during a consultation with the surgeon. The consultation will also allow the surgeon to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and to develop a customised treatment plan based on the individual’s unique anatomy and desired outcome.

The cost of tuberous breast surgery includes the surgeon’s fees, anaesthesia fees, and facility fees. We also offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable for patients who may not be able to pay the full cost upfront.

Selecting a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon with a strong reputation for performing successful tuberous breast surgery procedures is crucial. Centre for Surgery is staffed by experienced, certified plastic surgeons who specialise in tuberous breast surgery and other breast enhancement procedures.

Does the NHS cover Tubular Breast Surgery?

Tuberous breast surgery may be covered by the National Health Service (NHS) in some instances. The NHS provides medical care and treatments free of charge for eligible individuals in the United Kingdom, based on clinical need rather than the ability to pay.

However, the availability of tuberous breast surgery on the NHS may depend on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the impact on the individual’s physical and mental health, and the availability of funding and resources. In general, tuberous breast surgery is more likely to be covered by the NHS if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases where the individual is experiencing physical discomfort or pain.

Enhancing Aesthetic Outcomes: Complementary Procedures with Tubular Breast Correction

Breast Augmentation

For individuals undergoing tubular breast correction, breast augmentation with implants can provide additional volume and improve breast shape. This procedure allows for a wide range of implant sizes, shapes, and materials, offering a customizable solution to achieve the desired breast fullness and symmetry. The selection of implants is crucial in addressing the specific characteristics of tubular breasts, ensuring a natural-looking outcome that harmonises with the body’s proportions.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer, can be an excellent adjunct to tubular breast correction. By transferring fat from other body areas (such as the abdomen or thighs) to the breasts, surgeons can fine-tune the breast shape, address asymmetries, and enhance softness. This technique is particularly beneficial for creating smoother transitions and contours, especially in the cleavage area, offering a more natural and seamless appearance.

Liposuction:

Liposuction can be strategically employed in areas adjacent to the breasts, such as the underarm, back, or even the abdominal region, to enhance the overall body contour and highlight the newly corrected breast shape. By removing excess fat deposits, liposuction complements the breast correction by defining a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced silhouette, ensuring that the improvements are not isolated to the chest but are reflected across the body.

Abdominoplasty

In cases where individuals seek a comprehensive transformation, combining tubular breast correction with abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) can be highly effective. This procedure tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess skin, resulting in a flatter and more toned abdomen. The combination of abdominal contouring with breast correction can dramatically enhance body proportions, particularly beneficial for those looking to address changes following pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Why Choose Centre for Surgery for Tuberous Breast Correction?

Centre for Surgery is a leading cosmetic surgery clinic with significant experience in all types of aesthetic breast surgery, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, and fat transfer to breasts. The clinic owns and manages its surgical facilities, providing patients with a comfortable and safe environment for their procedures.

Properly performed tubular breast correction surgery takes time and should not be rushed. At Centre for Surgery, the highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeons take their time to ensure that each patient receives the best possible outcome from their procedure. The surgeons are renowned experts in breast surgery, with a combined total of many years of experience. They are also full members of various professional organisations, including the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).

Centre for Surgery’s approach to aftercare is outstanding, according to its regulator, the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The clinic’s postoperative support team phones all patients the day after their procedure and then every other day thereafter for the first two weeks. This proactive approach to aftercare ensures that any complications are detected and treated promptly, reducing the impact of complications on patients’ recovery.

Centre for Surgery offers a comprehensive treatment package for patients seeking tuberous breast correction surgery. The package includes the following:

As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the tuberous breast correction procedure is right for you.
Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC.
Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home.
24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team.
Your very own dedicated patient coordinator to guide you through the entire process.
In-depth preoperative medical assessment to ensure that you are fully fit for your procedure.
Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care are described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC, including regular telephone and face-to-face checks.
RealSelf Top Doctors status.

RealSelf Top Doctors

Centre for Surgery’s RealSelf Top Doctors status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community. This status is earned by consistently achieving high patient satisfaction (as rated in RealSelf reviews), receiving excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor-related activities. RealSelf’s top doctors are rated among the best surgeons in the UK, and this recognition reflects the clinic’s commitment to providing the highest level of care and expertise to its patients.