Breast hypoplasia

Breast hypoplasia affects many women. This benign anatomical condition refers to the underdevelopment of breast tissue, resulting in breasts that are disproportionately small relative to the patient’s body shape.

In contrast to breast hypertrophy, where the breasts are excessively large, breast hypoplasia differs from breast aplasia, which is characterized by the complete absence of breast tissue.

Breast hypoplasia typically becomes noticeable during puberty when breast glands start to develop in response to rising estrogen levels. These hormones stimulate breast tissue proliferation, leading to an increase in breast size and shape. Conversely, breast hypoplasia can also occur due to sudden hormonal imbalances.

Significant weight loss or the aftermath of pregnancy can also contribute to breast hypoplasia.

While padded bras can provide a temporary illusion of fuller breasts, only surgical techniques offer a permanent solution for increasing breast size and achieving a more pronounced bustline.

Breast augmentation can be performed through two main methods: autologous fat transfer (also known as fat grafting) or silicone breast implants.

Opting for breast augmentation involves several pre-operative consultations to determine the most suitable method for your needs. Dr. Benjamin Sarfati, a specialist in breast surgery, provides personalized guidance to each patient to help them choose the most appropriate option.

The breast augmentation procedure is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Some patients may need to stay overnight for observation.

Breast fat grafting

Initially, the surgeon performs liposuction from a pre-determined donor area. Small incisions are made, and a cannula connected to a specialized suction device is inserted to extract excess fat. The liposuction is carried out carefully to minimize trauma to the fat cells. The collected fat is then processed to remove impurities. This purification process ensures the use of high-quality adipocytes for transfer.

The treated fat is then injected into the breasts. The surgeon uses special cannulas to evenly distribute the fat into different layers of breast tissue, creating a harmonious aesthetic result. The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.

Breast implants

The surgeon makes incisions to insert the implants:

• Periareolar incision: Around the edge of the areola (the pigmented area around the nipple). The resulting scars generally blend well with the natural pigmentation of the areola.
• Inframammary incision: In the natural fold under the breast. This approach allows direct access to the breast cavity and minimizes impact on the breast tissue itself.
• Axillary incision: In the fold of the armpit. This method provides access to the breast gland without direct incisions on the breast.

Depending on the technique used, the implant may be positioned either behind the pectoral muscle or in front of it (subglandular). The implants are carefully positioned and adjusted for a natural appearance. The surgeon then closes the incisions.

After surgery, the breasts will be swollen and may show bruising, which will gradually subside. It is recommended to take several days of rest. Patients may experience some discomfort for a few days, but pain can usually be managed with analgesics. A supportive bra should be worn day and night to keep the breasts in place. Showering is permitted starting the day after the surgery.

Breast augmentation helps correct hypoplasia and provides breasts with significant size and volume. Patients will notice a more balanced silhouette. The procedure often addresses pre-existing breast asymmetries, resulting in more harmonious breasts.

The treatment of breast hypoplasia through augmentation has a positive impact on self-confidence and self-esteem, helping patients feel more feminine and comfortable with their appearance.

The cost of breast hypoplasia surgery is based on a detailed quote. Depending on the technique used and the patient’s needs, the estimate may vary. Generally, the cost ranges from €5,000 to €6,000 for breast augmentation with implants and from €6,500 to €8,000 for breast fat grafting (lipofilling).