Correction of Tubular Breasts

Tubular breast, also known as tube breast, is a specific developmental abnormality that develops during puberty and affects numerous women worldwide. This condition not only causes aesthetic concerns but can also impose significant psychological burdens on those affected. At Spirit Plastika Clinic, we offer personalized treatment plans and advanced surgical techniques to provide solutions for the correction of tubular breasts. Our goal is for our patients to feel more confident and live in harmony with their bodies while maintaining the highest professional standards.

It is important to understand that tubular breast is not a disease, but a developmental variation resulting from a disruption in breast growth. The breast tissue does not fully develop during puberty, resulting in an atypical, tube-like shape. While not considered a common condition, it affects enough women who often do not seek medical help, as this condition does not pose a direct health risk. It primarily causes aesthetic and comfort issues, significantly affecting women’s self-esteem and daily quality of life.

What is a Tubular Breast (Tube Breast)?

Tubular breasts do not pose a health risk but can be a significant source of stress and anxiety, greatly affecting a woman’s confidence. Correction of tube-shaped breasts can lead to improved self-esteem, more symmetrical breast shapes, no longer posing a psychological barrier in social interactions and intimate relationships. This surgery also greatly enhances breastfeeding capabilities.

Tubular breasts are narrow and develop with a large, swollen areola. While their shape varies, they are generally characterized by a narrow, elongated, and conical form. Hypertrophy of the areola may occur, with a protruding and larger areola due to the constriction of tissues at the base of the breast. Some patients with tubular breasts may have only one affected breast, while others may have both breasts tubular.

While tubular breasts are undersized, they are not merely small breasts that have not fully developed. Characteristics of tubular breast deformity include constriction of the breast, breast hypoplasia (small breast size or underdevelopment), underdeveloped breast skin, improper placement of the inframammary fold, areolar herniation (more pronounced puffiness or protrusion of the areola area), and breast asymmetry. These anatomical features can appear as one or more symptoms, thus tubular breast deformities range widely, often with significant discrepancies between the two breasts in the same individual, resulting in asymmetry.

Correction of tubularity does not always require a complete breast lift. In many cases, restoration is possible with appropriate use of implants to correct asymmetry, possibly of different shapes, sizes, and textures. In some cases, microstructural autologous fat transfer, or a combination of two breast augmentation and shaping techniques, might be sufficient. More challenging cases may need to be supplemented with a full breast lift, with incisions typically running vertically and around the nipple. More complex cases requiring correction might necessitate two surgeries, where our plastic surgery specialist might use an expander to pre-stretch the tissues.

During a personal consultation, following a thorough examination of the breasts, Dr. Vancsó determines the appropriate surgical strategy and techniques to be used.

Causes of Tubular Breast 

Tubular breast, also known as tube breast, is a complex developmental abnormality that develops during puberty, posing significant aesthetic and psychological challenges for those affected. According to experts at Spirit Plastika Clinic, this condition arises from a combination of factors, and a deep understanding is essential for developing effective treatment strategies.

Genetic and Biological Factors: 

The exact causes of tubular breast development remain unclear, but research indicates a significant role for genetic predisposition and abnormalities in collagen production. These factors can contribute to abnormal breast development during puberty.

Hormonal Changes:

 Puberty, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other hormonal changes can affect the growth and development of breast tissues, potentially resulting in asymmetric or atypical breast shapes. In such cases, one or both breasts may not fully develop, taking on a pointed or tubular shape.

Anatomical Features: Tubular breasts often appear smaller, with a narrower base and prominent or oversized areola. These breasts can be asymmetrical, and it is common for the natural inframammary fold to be incorrectly positioned.

Physical Developmental Abnormalities: In some cases, tubular breasts are associated with developmental abnormalities, such as anomalies in the structure of the chest, which can also affect breast growth and shape.

Psychological Effects: Tubular breasts can have significant psychological impacts. The unusual shape and size of the breasts can negatively affect the affected individuals’ self-esteem, causing anxiety and uncertainty in social relationships.

For the diagnosis and treatment of tubular breasts, the experts at Spirit Plastika Clinic conduct individual consultations to examine and plan the most appropriate surgical procedures. This may include implant placement, breast lifting, or even fat transfer, depending on what best serves the patient’s unique needs and expectations. The goal is to ensure the best possible aesthetic and functional results for every patient, improving their quality of life and confidence.

Procedure for Correcting Tubular Breasts (Tube Breast) 

The correction of tubular or tube breasts is a complex procedure performed by highly trained plastic surgeons at Spirit Plastika Clinic, strictly based on individual plans. Here we outline the steps of the correction process, so our patients know what to expect during the surgery.

Consultation and Preparation: Before any intervention, every patient undergoes a thorough consultation process. During this, the plastic surgeon examines the condition of the breasts, discusses the patient’s expectations and the achievable results. Additionally, patients participate in one or more consultations with the anesthesiologist to discuss details related to anesthesia.

Medical Examinations: Necessary medical examinations such as blood tests, ECG, breast ultrasound, or mammography are conducted before the surgery. These tests ensure that the patient’s health condition is suitable for the operation.

Management of Smoking and Other Risk Factors: It is critically important that patients quit smoking at least three weeks before the surgery, as smoking significantly worsens healing and increases the risk of infection.

The Surgery: The correction of tubular breasts is performed under anesthesia, and the duration of the procedure can vary from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the correction needed. During the surgery, the surgeon positions the implants as needed, may perform a breast lift, and can adjust the position of the nipples.

Hospital Stay and Postoperative Care: After the surgery, patients typically spend one night in the hospital under continuous medical supervision. After the hospital stay, patients are advised to rest completely for 4-8 weeks before gradually returning to daily activities.

Compression Bra and Healing: After surgery, patients are required to wear a compression bra provided by the clinic day and night for a month. Following this, it is recommended to wear a healing or sports bra for an additional six months. Scar healing begins three months after the surgery, and the new breast shape becomes visible within 3-6 months.

Leave and Return to Work: Patients are advised to take at least one, but preferably two weeks off work to ensure sufficient time for the initial healing phase.

Spirit Plastika Clinic is committed to providing the highest level of care and support during the correction of tubular breasts, ensuring the best aesthetic and functional results.

Dr. Péter Vancsó, the lead plastic surgeon at Spirit Plastic Surgery, is an expert in plastic and aesthetic surgery, a trauma and hand surgery specialist with over 30 years of surgical experience. He is an expert in reconstructive, breast, body contouring, and cosmetic surgery. His team provides unmatched individual care and attention before and after surgery.

Feel comfortable in your skin! If you wish to address the aesthetic concerns arising from tubular breasts, book a personalized consultation. Visit our website for details or call us directly at +36 1 445 0108 to discuss how we can help you regain confidence and harmony with your body. Do not wait any longer; take the first step today!