Tubular breasts are a common condition among women. It is a condition where the breast does not develop normally during puberty. The breasts are not naturally supported by the tissues which can cause them to sag and take on an elongated shape. Many patients don’t realize their breast deformity and the condition can go unidentified for a long time due to a lack of knowledge and awareness among the general population. In this article, we aim to provide all necessary information about tubular breasts, their features, and which surgical options are available so you can make an informed decision about your body.
Tubular Breasts: Definition
In medical terms, the tubular breast is also known as tuberous breast syndrome. It is a type of congenital breast deformity that can occur in both men and women, with the breast tissue failing to develop normally in one or both breasts. Patients with this condition may have asymmetrical breasts, small nipples, and large areolas. The affected skin appears misshapen, bumpy, or lumpy due to excess tissue in some areas and poor development in other areas. They usually form a cone shape around puffy areolas thus earning the name tubular breasts.
Tubular Breasts: Features
Tuberous breasts tend to be most noticeable in adolescence when rapid breast growth results in a lack of fatty tissue development behind the nipple area. This causes the nipple to protrude from the chest wall at an unusual angle and creates a more round appearance than usual for that person’s body type. Tubular breasts are distinguishable from normal underdeveloped breasts. Symptoms of the tubular breast range from mild to moderate to severe depending on the extent of deformity and the patient’s overall health and age. Key features of the tubular breast are;
Enlarged or puffy areolas due to excess tissue formation in that area. This creates the typical conical, tubular shape of the tubular breasts.
Wide spacing between the breasts.
Minimal breast tissue.
Asymmetrical breasts.
The narrow base at the chest wall.
Tuberous breasts can be seen in women of all ages and races. They are not related to pregnancy or lactation, nor do they affect fertility. Most patients seek treatment for cosmetic purposes because they want a more natural and symmetrical breast shape.
Tubular Breasts: Treatment
Treatment for tuberous breasts can improve the appearance of your chest and help you feel more confident about how you look. The goal is to give you better balanced-looking breasts. It aims to reduce the size of the puffy areola and enhance the natural contour of the breast to make them as symmetrical as possible. It’s almost impossible to achieve symmetry between both sides of your chest but surgery can give you the best chance at having your desired body shape. Communicate with your health team about your expectations of the surgery and the outcome you want. This will help them in forming a treatment plan for you.
Tubular Breasts: Procedures
Surgery for tubular breasts can be complicated. Procedures are generally done under general anaesthesia and can take anywhere from 2-to 3 hours on average. The type and extent of the procedure depend on the patient’s demands and the surgeon’s recommendations. The surgeon will treat each breast as a separate procedure and may use different combinations of procedures to achieve the desired shape. The most common surgical procedures during tubular breast surgery are as follows.
Breast lift – A breast lift can be performed on both breasts at the same time or on just one side. The procedure involves removing excess skin and repositioning the nipple/areola complex (NAC). Very often, patients also choose to have their nipples reshaped during this procedure as well.
Mastopexy – Mastopexy is often performed with a breast lift (mastectomy) procedure to raise sagging breasts back into a more youthful position. This often includes removing excess skin from underneath the breast tissue to create better contours and improve the symmetry between the two sides of the body.
Breast Augmentation – Augmentation procedures are commonly performed for patients who want larger breasts or those whose natural breast size has changed due to weight loss or pregnancy. Options include saline implants and silicone gel implants, which can be placed under the muscle or over it depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Women with tubular breasts can have a difficult time finding bras that fit properly and look good. They may also have a hard time feeling comfortable about their appearance. Tubular breast surgery is considered cosmetic and isn’t covered by insurance. However, it is an option for those who are unhappy with the shape of their breasts. Contact your surgeon to discuss your options for tubular breast surgery.
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