Breast Asymmetry

Almost everyone has some difference between their breasts, though a change that develops later deserves a closer look. Sarah Waterman, MD, at Green Mountain Breast Care Center in Stowe, Vermont, evaluates breast asymmetry to determine whether it reflects normal variation or something that needs treatment. Call the Stowe office or request an appointment online to discuss what you have noticed.

What is breast asymmetry?

Breast asymmetry means a visible or measurable difference between your two breasts in size, shape, position, or nipple placement. Most women have some degree of it, and the difference often goes unnoticed until you look closely or try on a fitted garment.

Asymmetry falls into two categories. The kind you have had since your breasts developed is a normal variation. The kind that appears or worsens in adulthood, particularly over weeks or months, needs evaluation to rule out an underlying cause.

What causes breast asymmetry?

Several factors contribute to differences between your breasts:

• Normal variation during puberty and breast development
• Hormonal changes across your menstrual cycle
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially uneven milk production
• Weight gain or loss
• A cyst, fibroadenoma, or other mass on one side
• Infection or inflammation
• Previous breast surgery or injury
• Scoliosis or chest wall differences
• Breast cancer

Dr. Waterman focuses on when the change started and how quickly it developed, since those details help her narrow the possibilities.

When should I have breast asymmetry evaluated?

Schedule an appointment if you notice any of the following:

• A new size difference that developed recently
• One breast growing noticeably larger over a short period
• Changes in shape alongside a lump you can feel
• Skin dimpling, puckering, or redness on one side
• A nipple that has started turning inward
• Pain or swelling limited to one breast

If your breasts have looked the same way for years, mention it at your next visit so Dr. Waterman knows what is normal for you.

How does my doctor evaluate breast asymmetry?

Your appointment starts with a clinical breast exam and a conversation about your history, including when you first noticed the difference and whether you’re experiencing any other changes at the same time. Dr. Waterman may order a mammogram, an ultrasound, or both to look at the tissue in each breast and compare them.

If imaging identifies a mass or an area of concern, she recommends a biopsy to determine what the tissue is. When the asymmetry stems from a benign cause, treatment depends on your symptoms and how much the difference bothers you.

Call Green Mountain Breast Care Center today or request an appointment online for more information on breast asymmetry.