Symmetrization of the contralateral (healthy) breast

What is a healthy breast and how does the procedure work?

Contralateral breast symmetrization is a surgical procedure that involves compensating for differences in the size, shape or position of the breasts so that they are symmetrical. In cases where one breast is noticeably larger, smaller, higher or lower, the surgeon performs the appropriate correction, so the procedure may involve different techniques, depending on the patient's needs:

• smaller breast augmentation - using breast implants or the patient's own fatty tissue (lipofilling),
• Reducing the larger breast - with the help of glandular tissue reduction,
• Breast lift - lifting the breasts so that both are level,
• Breast contouring - to achieve a more proportional appearance.

The procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the technique chosen. The duration of the operation is usually between 1.5 and 3 hours.

How to prepare for a Contralateral breast symmetrization procedure?

Before surgery, a detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon is necessary, who will assess the condition of the breast and discuss the patient's expectations. Standard preoperative tests should be performed, including morphology, ECG, chest X-ray, mammography (in the case of breast surgery), as well as clotting tests (APTT, INR).

A week before the surgery, blood-clotting medications such as aspirin should be discontinued, and the patient should be fasting on the day of surgery. Before the surgery, the surgeon will carefully discuss the surgical plan, taking into account the patient's needs and the techniques that will best suit her anatomy.

Recuperation after Contralateral breast symmetrization

After the Contralateral breast symmetrization surgery, the patient may experience moderate pain, and there may also be swelling and bruising of the operated area, which are normal postoperative effects. The pain can be relieved with painkillers prescribed by the specialist.

Depending on the extent of surgery, post-operative recommendations are also prepared. The patient usually has to wear a specialized compression bra to help heal and shape the breasts. During the first few weeks, excessive physical exertion and strain on the chest should be avoided. The first effects are visible after a few weeks, but the full result can be assessed only after a few months, when the breasts have fully healed.

What are the contraindications to the procedure?

The healthy breast symmetry procedure is not recommended in cases of: pregnancy and breastfeeding, breast infections, unregulated diabetes, coagulation disorders, autoimmune diseases or cancer, hypertension.

Before proceeding with the procedure, the patient should undergo a detailed consultation with the surgeon, who will assess whether there are any contraindications to surgery.