There are a variety of breast deformities. Some are cosmetic, while others may cause significant problems for patients. The issues may be on one side (unilateral) or both (bilateral).
Breast ptosis is drooping of the breast. This may happen with age, changes in weight, or pregnancy. Treatment involves a breast lift (mastopexy) and possibly breast augmentation to increase breast volume. Breast hypoplasia is simply a small breast, and is often treated with breast augmentation. Breast hypertrophy, on the other hand, is enlargement of the breast or breasts. This may be associated with neck/back pain, issues wearing bras, and infections/rashes in the lower breast fold. Treatment is breast reduction and may be covered by insurance. Tuberous breast deformity is a congenital condition that involves some or all the following features: tight skin envelope, small breast volume, elevation of the lower breast fold, enlargement of the nipple/areola. Poland syndrome is another congenital condition that extends beyond the breast and may include alterations of the chest wall and upper extremities.
