Restore Balance with the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington

Breast asymmetry is more common than many realize—and when differences in size, shape, or nipple position affect your confidence, surgical correction can help. At the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington, our board-certified plastic surgeons offer customized solutions to restore balance, enhance proportions, and create harmonious results. Dr. Douglas Forman & Dr. Kathy Huang bring years of expertise in breast surgery and a commitment to natural aesthetics, offering personalized care to patients in the Washington, DC and Bethesda, MD areas.

What is Breast Asymmetry?

Breast asymmetry refers to noticeable differences between the breasts in size, shape, volume, or nipple positioning. Some women are born with developmental breast asymmetry, while others notice changes over time due to hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, weight loss, or previous surgeries. Though slight asymmetry is very common, significant differences can be a source of emotional distress and physical imbalance.

For patients experiencing congenital breast asymmetry or changes due to trauma, medical conditions, or prior surgeries, correction can restore a sense of body harmony and self-assurance.

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Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Asymmetry Correction?

Ideal candidates are in good general health, have realistic expectations, and are bothered by noticeable asymmetry in one or both breasts. You may be a candidate if you’ve experienced:

A significant difference in breast volume or shape
Nipple or areola misalignment
Changes from previous surgery or trauma
Asymmetry that developed during puberty (congenital breast asymmetry)
Breast shape differences after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging

During your consultation, our surgeons will perform a detailed evaluation and develop a plan tailored to your anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.

Breast Asymmetry After Weight Loss

Significant weight loss can lead to noticeable changes in breast shape, volume, and symmetry. Many women find that after losing a substantial amount of weight, their breasts appear deflated or uneven—especially if one side naturally holds more volume before the weight change. This imbalance may be even more apparent when the skin’s elasticity has been stretched or compromised during weight fluctuations.

At the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington, our board-certified plastic surgeons have extensive experience correcting post-weight loss breast asymmetry. Treatment plans are highly individualized and may include breast augmentation, breast lift (mastopexy), fat grafting, or a combination of techniques to restore balance, contour, and confidence. Whether your concern is a size difference, nipple height disparity, or overall shape mismatch, we are committed to delivering natural-looking results tailored to your body and goals.

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What to Expect During Your Consultation and Procedure

The first step is a personalized consultation at our Bethesda office. We’ll discuss your concerns, review your medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your surgeon may recommend a combination of surgical options to achieve symmetry, which may include volume enhancement, reduction, lifting, or reshaping.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in our in-office state-of-the-art surgical facility. Surgical time varies depending on the approach used. Most patients return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions.

Common Procedures for Breast Asymmetry

Breast asymmetry correction is never one-size-fits-all. Your treatment may involve one or more of the following:

Breast Augmentation

In cases where one breast is smaller, an implant may be placed to match the larger side. In some cases, both breasts receive implants of different sizes for a balanced result.

Breast Reduction

When one breast is significantly larger, a reduction can be performed to match the smaller breast. This also relieves symptoms such as back or shoulder pain caused by asymmetry.

Breast Augmentation with Mastopexy

If one or both breasts are sagging or have volume loss, a combination of implant placement and a breast lift can restore youthful shape and symmetry.

Breast Surgery After Weight Loss

Massive weight loss can result in volume loss or sagging that affects each breast differently. A tailored approach to lifting and reshaping the breasts can address these changes and create balance.

Your surgeon will recommend the best combination of techniques based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Recovery and Results

Most patients can return to light activity within two weeks and resume normal routines—including exercise—within 4 to 6 weeks. You’ll wear a surgical bra or support garment to aid healing and maintain your new shape.

Swelling and bruising are expected but temporary. As your body heals, you’ll begin to see a more symmetrical, natural-looking result. Final results typically become visible after a few months and are long-lasting, especially when paired with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

attractive woman in red dress with large breasts

Why Choose Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington for Breast Asymmetry?

At the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington, Dr. Forman & Dr. Huang combine surgical artistry with medical excellence. Our board-certified plastic surgeons have years of experience addressing complex breast concerns, including congenital breast asymmetry and revision surgery. We take time to understand your goals, guide you through your options, and develop a treatment plan that reflects your individuality. With a reputation built on natural results, precision, and compassion, we proudly serve patients from across Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

Breast Asymmetry FAQs

How noticeable does asymmetry need to be to consider surgery?

If your breast asymmetry is visible in clothing, causes discomfort, or affects your self-confidence, it may be worth considering surgical correction—even if the difference is subtle.

Can breast asymmetry be corrected without implants?

Yes. Depending on your anatomy, a reduction, lift, or reshaping procedure may be enough to correct asymmetry without using implants.

Will I need surgery on both breasts?

Often, both breasts are addressed to ensure the most symmetrical outcome—though sometimes only one breast is operated on. Your surgeon will advise you on the best approach.

Does insurance cover breast asymmetry correction?

In some cases—such as congenital breast asymmetry or reconstructive needs—insurance may cover part of the procedure. We recommend checking with your provider and discussing this during your consultation.

What is the difference between congenital and acquired asymmetry?

Congenital asymmetry develops during breast development, often becoming more noticeable after puberty. Acquired asymmetry occurs later in life due to aging, weight changes, trauma, or previous surgeries.

Take the First Step Toward Symmetry and Confidence

If breast asymmetry is affecting how you feel in your body, we’re here to help. Schedule your consultation with the Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington today and explore your personalized options for natural, lasting balance.

Take your first step on a journey to a new you.

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Call us 301.359.6747

At PSIW, we eagerly await your arrival.