Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery

By Elena Prousskaia MD, FRCS (Plast), FEBOPRAS

Tuberous breast is a congenital condition, which can severely affect your quality of life.

This genetic condition which is sometimes referred to as constricted breasts, tubular breasts or herniated areolas varies considerably in severity but in most cases causes issues with either balance, overall breast symmetry or breast aesthetics. Patients come to Elena Prousskaia seeking to resolve sometimes longstanding issues with breast aesthetics related to tuberous breast conditions. This article will explain more about the condition and Elena’s approach to cosmetic surgery.

• What’s the Definition of Tuberous Breasts?
• Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery Process
• Advice On Breast Implants

What’s the Definition of Tuberous Breasts?

Your breasts are usually under-developed and are of an ‘unusual’ shape due to lack of volume, constriction of the breast base and a prominent, enlarged areola. The narrow base can cause the breast to look elongated.

It is called tubular because it is in a way similar to the tube instead of the normal teardrop breast shape.

Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery Process

There are a number of techniques Elena can use to restore shape, volume and symmetry to your breasts. She could use your own tissue, fat transfer, implants, expanders and/or remodeling of your breast tissue. The choice of technique suitable for you will depend on your expectations and the breast volume and shape that you would like to achieve. It is a decision which you will make together following a long discussion and examination in the clinic.

It is normal to have a second consultation, for you to ask any further questions, once you have had time to consider the different surgical options. After the decision is made we will carefully prepare for your surgery.

Advice On Breast Implants

Since December 2018, many regulatory bodies around the World have issued statements regarding their own position and some have limited the distribution of other textured devices. The advice does vary from country to country because the research data available is limited and not conclusive. None have called for the precautionary removal or replacement of textured devices that are already inside patients’ breasts.

Breast implants however are not lifelong devices and in general will need removal or replacement at some point. In an effort to have more robust data about both conditions, the Breast and Cosmetic Implant register (BCIR) collects breast implant data for patients in England and Scotland. The MHRA continues to collect and analyse UK information through a reporting system. It also has links with up to date information from international public health organisations. The most recent advice from MHRA on BIA-ALCL was updated on the 4th April 2019.

View the MHRA statement on Allergan

Download the BAAPS statement on ALCL

Frequently Asked Questions

Are You Considering A Tuberous Breast Correction?

Many of Elena’s tuberous breast patients have felt self-conscious about the issue since puberty, which is when this issue manifests. If you are concerned that your breasts are either not developing normally, or have never reached their shape, we suggest you book a confidential discussion with Elena to discuss whether this surgery might be appropriate for you.

Is Tuberous Breast Surgery Right For You?

If any of the following characteristics feel true, then it is likely this is the correct surgical procedure. Of course, this can be confirmed following a detailed discussion with Elena: • Elongated or coned Breasts
• Narrower breast base
• The fold beneath your breast (inframammary crease) is high
• Prominent enlarged areola.

What Are The Risks Of Tuberous Breast Surgery?

While complications with surgery are infrequent, no surgical procedure is without risks. Among the possible complications are scars, infection, haematoma, implant displacement, breast asymmetry, implant rupture and capsular contracture. Elena will provide you with further information with the risks and provide you with a detailed consent form during your consultations. This will help you to minimise the risks.

What Is The After Care For Tuberous Breast Surgery?

The Elena Prousskaia Clinic prides itself on the quality of its aftercare so we’ll make absolutely sure you know what to expect, and how much rest is needed. We’ll give you specific instructions that may include how to care for your breasts following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, and when to follow-up with Elena. Elena will also advise you on a specialised garment bra which will also help with your recovery.

Will I Be Able To Wear A Normal Bra?

Tuberous breast correction ensures that patient gains missing volume especially in the lower pole of the breasts, which tend to be short of skin and breast tissue. Once the lower pole of the breast becomes rounder and fuller a bra would normally fit well.

How Do You Fix Tuberous Breast?

The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic. The length of surgery is between 2-3 hours however this is dependent on the complexity of surgery. The placement of scars will depend on your preference and the recommendation. The missing volume is restored with implants after breast remodelling is completed, normally as part of the same procedure. Areola reduction can be performed through periareolar approach, with a scar around the nipple areola complex. The Implant often can be introduced through the scar using a Keller funnel resulting in minimal scaring.  Very rarely in severe grade of tuberosity a two stage surgery may be needed. In these rare cases, tissue expanders would be placed first to stretch the tissue and at the second stage it would be replaced with implants.

What Does This Procedure Cost?

Please scroll down for more information on pricing.

What Is The Recovery Time For Tuberous Breast Surgery?

Normally, after a one-night stay, you would go home once the drains are removed. You may feel tightness of your breasts after this surgery. This is normal and it will improve gradually. You should avoid all sport activities, housework such as hovering, driving, dog walking for at least 4-6 weeks following surgery and any weight lifting or strenuous activities for up to 8-12 months following the surgery. The visibility of your scars will depend on the technique used and on the biological response of your body to surgery and healing. Generally the scars after this type of surgery are almost invisible by the end of the year. Patients can benefit from taking four weeks off work, and after you have seen Ms Prousskaia for your four weeks follow up you can discuss beginning a gym routine focused on lower body strength.

What Type Of Implants Are Used?

The shape of implants can be round or anatomical (teardrop). Both can provide an excellent result. The outer shell and the filling may vary depending on the manufacturer. Miss Prousskaia has never used PIP implants in her practice and she will offer you high quality implants from the best manufacturers. You will discuss with Miss Prousskaia which specific shape and size of implant would give you the optimal result. You should know that in the European Union (EU) 95% of implants used for breast augmentation are made of silicone gel and only 5% contains other type of fillings such as saline. Mentor Silicone Gel-Filled Breast Implants are devices with shells constructed from silicone elastomer. The shell is filled with MemoryGel®, Mentor’s proprietary formulation of silicone gel.

What Would My Expected Results Be?

Elena prides herself on taking the time to truly understand a patient’s aims and discussing what result will work best given the patient’s body shape and size. Although good results are expected, the body is not symmetric and almost everyone has some degree of unevenness, which may not be recognized in advance. The more realistic your expectations as to results, the better your results will be in your eye. You will have at least two consultations with Elena where she ensures that she meets your expectations and she will always try to achieve your desired results.

Can I smoke or vape before my surgery?

Elena does not operate on patients that regularly smoke or vape. To be considered for this procedure you must refrain from smoking or vaping for 3 months before and after your surgery.

Treatment Cost

The total cost of the surgery will be confirmed after the first consultation.

The cost includes the hospital, surgeon and anaesthetic fees. It also covers all post-operative visits. The initial consultation fee will be invoiced separately. The prices apply only at the time of publication and are subject to changes without notification.

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Treatment At A Glance

Surgical Time 2 - 3.5 hours
Hospital Stay Over night hospital stay
Initial Recovery Time 4 - 8 weeks
Anaesthetic General anaesthetic
Final Result 3 - 12 months
Follow Up 1, 4, 12 weeks & 1 year

Treatment Videos

As a useful resource please view these videos to help educate and explain this procedure in detail.

Treatment Downloads

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BBA RCS BAPRAS Guide to Breast Augmentation

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WHAT DO ELENA'S PATIENTS SAY...

Elena was recommended to me and as soon as I met her I felt entirely comfortable. Her explanations made sense in terms of expectations. Having made the big decision I did feel nervous but had absolute trust and confidence in Elena. I knew I was in the best hands. Elena's team is so supportive, my questions were answered with patience and understanding. My care at the McIndoe Centre was excellent. I am five weeks post op for abdominoplasty and liposuction and last week. Quite amazing to see the before and after pictures! I am so pleased that I was fortunate enough to meet Elena and have no hesitation in recommending her.

SM – Abdominoplasty & Liposuction

I have been both physically and mentally uncomfortable in my body since I was 12. I was born with ‘breast mutation’ and I first had surgery to correct this through the NHS at 16 years old. The surgery I have had with Elena, 17 years later, has removed the NHS implants, one of which had ruptured, and completely altered the shape of my chest. By doing this she has made me look and feel like a woman for the first time in my life. She is at all times quietly kind and fiercely adept. A true artist. She has surrounded herself with the most wonderful team and I cannot thank them all enough for the new lease of life that I have been given.

EG – Removal & Replacement of Implants

I have been self conscious for the whole of my adult life and I cannot express how much this surgery  has changed things for me. Both mentally and physically. I highly recommend Elena. She supported me throughout my journey from start to finish. Elena is very particular which for me is really important. Elena really took care of me from initial consultation right through to surgery and aftercare.My scaring is minimal and I am absolutely over the moon with my results. Thank you Elena!

JB – Breast Reduction

Elena is an OUTSTANDING surgeon. I had PIP implants and was looking to have them changed. I knew Elena was the surgeon to help, she put me at ease and explained my options. The lovely ladies in her office were helpful, I wanted to get sorted asap, when an alternative date was available contacted me straight away. I received outstanding care from start to finish from Elena, her team and the hospital. The aftercare is amazing, nothing is too much trouble, can call any time. I was so relaxed, I knew I was in great hands. The final results are fantastic. Elena has worked magic and I couldn’t be happier. I’m so glad I found her. I can’t thank her and her team enough.

LMS – implant Removal & Replacement

Had surgery with Elena in September, I was extremely anxious about the whole thing, but Elena and her whole team, from admin to the hospital staff were amazing with me and reassured me throughout my journey. I can not recommend Elena enough, and she has changed my life for the better! Already saving for my next operation with her!

SM – Abdominoplasty & Arm Lift

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