What are tuberous breasts?
Tuberous breasts, also sometimes referred to as tubular breasts, are breasts that, instead of being rounded, are tube-shaped and show a great deal of separation between the two breasts. In addition, the areolas are usually large, with the mammary gland protruding through them, and even with a lack of development at the lower pole.
How can we identify them (signs and symptoms)?
The main symptoms and characteristics of tuberous breasts are the conical shape that characterizes them.
In addition, they usually present a greater separation between breasts and a lack of growth or development in certain areas of the breast. They also usually present asymmetry and large areolas.
This alteration in the breasts is due to a congenital malformation that is not usually noticed until breast development during puberty.
What types of tuberous breasts are there?
There are three types of tuberous breasts. Depending on the severity of the malformation, there may be:
- Inferiomedial quadrant hypoplasia: this is the most frequent case, affecting approximately 50% of patients.
- Hypoplasia of the two lower quadrants: there are two subtypes, with sufficient skin in the subareolar region, or with insufficient skin; it occurs in a lower percentage, 26%.
- And finally, the least frequent case, 18%, hypoplasia of all quadrants.
What tests are performed to diagnose them?
The diagnosis of tuberous breast is made by clinical assessment and physical examination.
How can they be corrected?
The treatment is surgical and consists of breast remodeling with implants and/or fat, apart from releasing the flanges that compress the gland and correcting the prolapse of the areola.
How are the results after the intervention and how is the postoperative period?
The objective is to give the breast a natural appearance, improving its shape and contour. The postoperative period consists of avoiding exertion, sleeping with the head elevated, wearing a surgical bra, taking prescribed medication.