Aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle performs breast correction surgery in Antibes. These procedures are designed to improve the appearance of the breasts by correcting shape defects and symmetry issues.
When is a breast correction procedure appropriate?
Breast malformations can have both an aesthetic and psychological impact.
Malformations can be numerous and varied:
- Tuberous breasts: this condition is linked to a congenital malformation of the breast that can, in severe cases, give the breast an elongated, tubular appearance. Other unsightly symptoms include an anomaly where the breast attaches to the chest wall, reduced skin envelope, hypertrophic areola and nipples
- Asymmetric breasts: even if the majority of women tend to have one breast slightly larger than the other, sometimes the asymmetry can be pronounced and can cause significant stress or anxiety
- Inverted or flat nipples: the nipples are flat or pointing inwards
Breast correction procedures
Dr Merle corrects different breast malformations using different, specific surgical techniques:
Tuberous breasts:
Tuberous breasts are normally graded according to the severity of the condition:
– Stage I: Mild – this is the most common form where only the lower medial part of the breast is deficient. The areola tilts downwards and inwards.
– Stage II: Moderate – the entire lower half of the breast is deficient. The areola tilts downwards
– Stage III: Severe – the upper and lower segments may all be deficient. In these cases the breast base is completely constricted, giving the breast a distinctly tubular appearance.
The surgery performed will depend on the level of severity involved. A procedure will aim to make the breasts look shapely, in proportion and with a well-positioned areola of the correct size. Other procedures can be undertaken in tandem:
– mammoplasty to re-shape the breasts, to lift and reduce the size of the areola.
– Implants (+ potentially also lipofilling) and augmentation mammoplasty to increase volume and rebuild the breast attachment point on the chest wall.
– Correction of ptosis if the breasts have sagged.
The procedure generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours and is performed under a general anaesthetic. Dr Merle can also insert a Redon drain to dissipate any blood that may collect around the wound. As soon as the procedure is done, the patient will be put into a shaping compression bandage. The patient will stay in hospital for 24 hours following the procedure. The cost of this procedure performed in Antibes by aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle, starts at €2500 and is reimbursed by Social Security.
Asymmetric breasts
This condition can be corrected through breast reduction, ptosis surgery or a breast augmentation procedure. Incision scars will depend on the technique used and may vary from one breast to another.
As soon as the procedure is done, the patient will be put into a shaping compression bandage. The patient will stay in hospital for 24 hours following the procedure.
The duration of the operation will depend on the technique used. It is carried out under a general anaesthetic.
Inverted or flat nipples
The correction of inverted or flat nipples can be made under local anaesthetic (with sedation) or sometimes under a general. The procedure lasts around 30 minutes. During the operation the milk ducts are sectioned as they are retracted underneath the nipple and causing them to look inverted.
After the procedure, the patient will be able to go home on the same day.
The cost of this procedure performed in Antibes by aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle, starts at 800 € and in some cases may be reimbursed by Social Security.
What to expect following surgery
After the procedure, discomfort or pain can be experienced. Swelling and bruising often occur. Doctor Merle will be able to prescribe appropriate medication to help reduce any discomfort.
The shaping compression bandage worn after surgery for tuberous or asymmetric breasts is removed a few days after the procedure and then a specially adapted support bra must be worn for 2 months. Any sporting activity should be avoided for at least one month after the operation.
Case n°1 — Before/after
Asymmetric breasts
Case n°2 — Before/after
Tuberous breasts