Introduction to Uniboob (Symmastia)
The term “uniboob” refers to a condition in which a woman’s breasts do not have a significant amount of distinction, often meaning that clothing or a bra may make it hard to see the individual shape of the breasts. Some people believe that a uniboob is less attractive or desirable. However, there are other factors to consider as well, including symmastia.
Symmastia is a rare condition in which the tissue, muscle, and skin located between the breasts lift away from the sternum. This causes the breasts to move in towards each other. The result is a loss of cleavage, or the space between the two breasts. This area makes it look like a single breast is present instead of the two distinctively shaped breasts expected.
Uniboob, alternatively, is often a complication of breast augmentation. It is quite different from symmastia but can be a complication of breast augmentation (not often).
Uniboob and symmastia are different conditions, but both can be frustrating to some people. If you have thought about breast implants or breast augmentation surgery to correct these conditions, turn to ICLS for a solution. We can help you feel more confident and improve your quality of life in many instances. We offer breast revision surgery that can correct these concerns.
Before you take that route, consider the following details about these conditions.
Causes of Uniboob and Symmastia
As noted, these conditions are different, and that difference begins with what causes them.
Genetic Factors
Symmastia is typically due to a rare genetic predisposition. That means that most people with it have congenital symmastia, which can develop over time.
Post-Surgical Factors
By comparison, uniboob is due to plastic or reconstruction surgery in which mistakes occur. Typically, these are a post-surgical outcome due to over-dissection of the breast tissue during the breast augmentation procedure. It can also occur in situations where the use of overly large implants occurs, which makes the implant pocket less stable and more at risk.
Also, note that it is possible to develop uniboob due to improper post-operative care. For example, it can occur after having plastic surgery with breast augmentation and then not wearing the proper type of supportive bra, though this rarely occurs.
Anatomical Risk Factors
With congenital symmastia revisited, a narrow sternum or irregular breastbone structure can cause the condition to occur. Also notable is iatrogenic symmastia, which occurs when the breast tissue from each breast merges across the cleft in the center, called the intermammary cleft. This happens when the breast implants are positioned too wide or too close in comparison to the frame of the body.
Other Causes
Other factors can contribute to these conditions as well, including age, weight changes, and external pressures placed on the implants, especially initially.
In both situations, corrective surgeries are an option, including fat transfer that can improve the overall shape of breast tissue. Breast revision surgery can be applicable in many of these cases as well.
Identifying Symptoms of Uniboob
While an experienced plastic surgeon can provide an exam and offer clarity, you may be suffering from uniboob if you have symptoms such as:
- Lack of distinct cleavage between the breasts
- Tenting or lifting of the skin located between the breasts
- Discomfort, including improperly fitting bras
- The loss of breast definition
- Changes to the cleavage area
Preventing Uniboob
Several factors can contribute to a reduced risk of developing uniboob after a breast implant procedure. First, ensure you are working with an experienced plastic surgeon who has extensive reviews and satisfied patients. In short, you want to be sure the plastic surgeon is using the most advanced surgical techniques to minimize these risks.
Work closely with plastic surgeons to ensure you are selecting the right-sized implants for your anatomy. While patient satisfaction is always important, a skilled surgeon recognizes that larger implants are not only less aesthetically pleasing but also risky. Damage to the chest wall can occur.
Moreover, you should always follow the guidelines provided by your doctor after your procedure. That includes:
- Wearing the right type of bra and following doctor recommendations to support the healing process
- Avoiding any type of strenuous activity in the days and weeks after the procedure
- Adhering to all care instructions
Before your procedure, speak to your doctor about your concerns. Discuss your goals and risks for developing symmastia or uniboob. For example, your doctor may recommend a breast augmentation with breast lift as a way to prevent asymmetry and uniboob from occurring as this can act like an internal bra for support.
Non-Surgical Solutions for Uniboob Appearance
Plastic surgeons will likely recommend one or more strategies to both reduce the risk and correct the look of uniboob. You may not need to have corrective surgery. Instead, you may be able to benefit from:
- Supportive undergarments that enhance cleavage and provide more separation
- Corrective clothing such as padded bras or minimizers
- Lifestyle improvements like weight management and healthy nutrition
If you are considering a less invasive option for correcting uniboob, speak to your plastic surgeon about fat transfer. It is an excellent option for breast contouring in the central chest area without significant surgery.
Surgical Treatments for Uniboob and Symmastia
When non-surgical correction is not enough, your surgeon can offer strategies for improving the look of the cleavage area, including:
- Repositioning the breast implants
- Changing the implant plane (submuscular or above-muscle placement)
- Reducing the implant size or shape to better fit the body’s frame
You can expect a healing process that takes several weeks from this type of treatment. However, the results are often better than those of other methods.
Explore options for Breast Revision Surgery, Fat Transfer, and Breast Augmentation with Lift as possible solutions for reshaping and improving breast symmetry.
Addressing Uniboob Without Surgery
After a physical examination, your plastic surgeon can recommend non-surgical treatment options as noted.
For a temporary fix, contouring and corrective makeup techniques could help. Some topical creams may offer skin-tightening benefits, though their effectiveness is minimal.
Why Choose ICLS for Symmastia Correction?
The expertise of ICLS surgeons makes a world of difference in treating symmastia and other conditions. With cutting-edge techniques and personalized care, you can see more of the results you desire.
Schedule a personalized assessment so your plastic surgeon can create a treatment plan that’s best suited for your needs. ICLS offers patient-centric care and exceptional results.