Chest wall asymmetries and deformities and Breast Augmentation

Preoperative photograph showing pectus excavatum deformity

Breast augmentation with symmetric breasts is a fairly routine procedure.  The plastic surgeon must take account of asymmetries which are very common.  Careful measurements of  the sternal notch to nipple distance and breast diameter is part of a thoughtful preoperative plan.  These asymmetries  must be pointed out to the patient.  Often, patients are unaware that there are differences in the breasts will be disappointed as augmentation may magnify these differences.  Augmentation alone may not overcome asymmetries.  Even with breast volume asymmetry, getting the exact volume correction is very difficult.  Asymmetric nipples will not be equalized in many cases and sometimes require mastopexy.  Many women exhibit asymmetries of the contour of the chest wall.  One such abnormality is the pectus excavatum deformity also known as funnel chest.  In this deformity the sternum has a concavity which can be quite severe or more subtle.  In the absence of surgical correction of this,  it is difficult for a breast augmentation to mask this abnormality. Other chest wall deformities such as pectus carinum (or pigeon chest) is characterized by a prominent sternum with the ribs sloping away. Patients with this variant can have nipples and breast mounds that are pointing outwards. Even subtle rib abnormalities can cause depressed areas or raised areas with asymmetry.

These conditions can affect the final result .  

This 25 year-old woman desired modest improvement in her breast size.  She did have pectus excavatum deformity as well as breast asymmetry with the right breast being smaller. She underwent bilateral submuscular breast augmentation with silicone gel implants. The right side had a 275 cc moderate profile device.  The left side, which was larger, had a 210 cc moderate profile device.  The patient was very happy with the improvement.

About Dr Lyle - Plastic Surgeon in Raleigh NC

Dr. Glenn Lyle is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving the Raleigh, NC community at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center since 2002. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in breast surgery and body contouring, to enhance patients' appearance after weight loss, pregnancy, and aging. 

Dr. Lyle completed his medical degree at Wayne State University School of Medicine, followed by a general surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts and a plastic surgery residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Lyle has contributed to the field through research, publications, and presentations at national meetings. His practice emphasizes patient safety and personalized care to achieve natural results.

Next Steps

If you’re considering a breast augmentation surgery in Raleigh, NC, and want personalized advice about your suitability, recovery, risks and results, I’d be happy to meet with you for a consultation. Let’s work together to help you achieve your best results—safely and beautifully.

To book a consultation please fill in the contact form or phone the office on 919 307 85 85.