BREAST MALFORMATIONS

In addition to the diverse shape and size variants of the female breast, there are a number of congenital breast malformations, which are usually caused by changes in embryonic development and often also affect the bony chest wall (ribs and sternum). They are often the cause of breast asymmetry, since the way the actual breast is “attached” to the rib cage is different.

 

One of the most well-known malformations in this context is the tubular breast deformity . Colloquially, it is disrespectfully referred to as a hose or snout breast. In this case, the attachment of the breast to the chest wall is much narrower, similar to a tube that sits on the chest. Depending on the degree of severity, this breast deformity is associated with underdevelopment of the lower parts of the breast and very widened areolas. In addition, part of the mammary gland bulges forward through a ring of constrictive connective tissue into the nipple region.

Treatment is highly dependent on the severity and most often involves tightening, autologous fat grafting, and redistribution of the existing mammary gland. However, several sessions are usually necessary for a satisfactory result.

 

Another relatively common breast malformation is Poland syndrome . Here we are talking about underdevelopment or even a complete absence of the breast on one side. In this case, the sternal part of the large pectoral muscle is always missing. The breasts are very asymmetrical and the axillary folds – the front contour of the lateral breasts – have dissolved. Those treating Poland syndrome should be proficient in the whole range of breast surgery, because such an operation requires the volume difference to be compensated for with a "custom-made" implant specially produced in a 3D printer. In addition, autologous fat transplants in the area of the surface contour to the armpit and tightening of the opposite side are to be carried out.

 

In Amazon syndrome , the pectoral muscle is intact, but the mammary gland is completely missing on one side. Here, too, the missing breast contour can be reproduced with an implant and/or lipofilling, thus providing relief for those affected.

 

The shape of the chest wall plays a major role in every breast augmentation. Funnel or quill breast deformities are common and cause severe suffering after breast growth, especially in women, as they create asymmetry, even though each breast is similar in shape. In the case of serious deformities with restricted mobility of the thorax, these malpositions should be operated on by special clinics in childhood. In the case of mild deformities, however, plastic surgery correction can also be carried out with much less risk, for example with a specially made implant from the 3D printer after a planning CT or with lipofilling.

 

All of the above mentioned breast reconstructive surgeries are complex surgeries that should only be treated by plastic surgeons experienced in complex breast surgery.

 

In addition to our work at JJPS, we continue to work as senior attending physicians in the breast center of the renowned Charité in Berlin and can therefore carry out the above-mentioned interventions as part of our clinical work.

 

Coverage by the health insurance companies is possible in individual cases and can be discussed during our consultation hours.