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  • 8 November 2024
  • Mr A. Siddiqui

Last updated on November 27, 2024

A “uniboob,” scientifically referred to as symmastia, is a condition where the breasts appear to be joined together without a distinct cleavage. It creates the appearance of a single, unified breast instead of the natural separation between the two breasts.

The term uniboob is commonly used to describe this aesthetic issue, while symmastia is the medical term that captures both congenital and surgically-induced cases.

Symmastia: Causes and Symptoms

Symmastia can be either congenital (present from birth) or acquired, typically occurring after breast augmentation surgery. In congenital cases, the chest wall and breast tissue form abnormally, leading to the merging of breast tissue across the sternum. This is often due to genetics and the way the breast tissue develops in the early stages of life.

In acquired symmastia, the issue usually arises due to complications from breast augmentation surgery. If implants are placed too closely together or if the skin and tissue are stretched too tightly during surgery, the result may be a uniboob. This is especially common when excessively large implants are used for a small chest frame or when the natural separation between the breasts is compromised by the surgical technique.

Symptoms

The symptoms of symmastia can vary in severity, but common signs include:

  • No visible cleavage: A key symptom is the lack of a defined cleavage line between the breasts.
  • Breast discomfort: Some individuals experience discomfort or tightness in the chest, especially after surgery.
  • Bra fitting issues: Standard bras may not provide the proper support, as the lack of cleavage makes it difficult for bras to stay in place and support the breasts individually.
  • Visible skin pulling: There may be visible tension or pulling across the skin between the breasts, making the chest area appear overly tight.

Uniboob vs Normal: Key Differences

To better understand the difference between a uniboob and a normal breast structure, it’s essential to consider breast anatomy. In a normal breast structure, there is a natural separation between the two breasts, creating a well-defined cleavage.

The breasts are supported by the chest wall and skin, which holds them in their respective positions. On the other hand, in symmastia, this separation is lost, and the breasts appear joined together.

A normal breast augmentation aims to enhance the size and shape of the breasts while maintaining a natural cleavage. However, in cases where symmastia develops, the lack of separation leads to an abnormal appearance, often resulting in a less aesthetically pleasing outcome for individuals who have undergone breast surgery.

Symmastia Treatment Options

Treating symmastia often requires a combination of surgical techniques and non-surgical solutions. Depending on the cause and severity of the condition, individuals may need different approaches:

Non-Surgical Solutions

  • Specialised bras: In some cases of mild symmastia, wearing specially designed bras can help separate the breasts and provide additional support.
  • Compression garments: These are sometimes recommended to help support the breast tissue and reduce the tension that may contribute to symmastia.

Surgical Treatment

For more severe cases, particularly those caused by breast augmentation surgery, surgical intervention may be required. Common symmastia treatment options include:

  • Capsulorrhaphy: This surgical technique involves tightening the breast capsule, which surrounds the implant. This helps to restore the cleavage by recontouring the space between the breasts.
  • Implant repositioning or removal: If the symmastia was caused by improperly placed breast implants, the surgeon may need to remove, replace, or reposition the implants to recreate the natural separation.
  • Tissue reconstruction: In cases where the skin or breast tissue has been excessively stretched, reconstruction may be necessary to restore the natural tension and alignment of the breasts.
Symmastia Symptoms | What is Symmastia | Symmastia Treatment
If you would like to undergo surgery to repair symmastia, here is an overview of the procedure.

Symmastia Repair Procedure

If you decide to undergo surgery to repair symmastia, here is an overview of the procedure:

  • Consultation: Your surgeon will begin with a thorough physical examination of your breast anatomy and the surrounding skin and muscle tissue to determine the cause of the symmastia. This includes evaluating the placement of your breast implants (if applicable) and assessing the condition of the muscle tissue and breast tissue to create the best surgical plan.
  • Surgical Planning: Based on the severity of the symmastia, whether it is congenital or acquired, your surgeon will develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan may involve repositioning the implants, tightening the skin and muscle tissue, or even performing breast reconstruction to restore the natural appearance of your chest. If your case requires additional corrective surgery, such as adjusting the placement of the implants or reshaping the muscle tissue, this will also be discussed.
  • Surgery: The procedure will typically be performed under general anaesthesia. During the surgery, your surgeon will work to separate the breasts, reposition or remove implants, and reshape the skin and muscle tissue as necessary to restore proper cleavage. If needed, additional breast reconstruction techniques may be employed.
  • Post-Surgery Recovery: After the procedure, you may be required to wear a compression garment, specially designed bras or sports bras to support the newly shaped breast structure. It is important to avoid an unstructured bra style, shelf bras or any bra straps that could put pressure on the chest area during the healing process. The recovery typically takes several weeks, during which you should avoid strenuous activities to allow the skin and muscle tissue to heal properly.

Consulting with a Leading Plastic Surgeon at Breast & Body Clinic UK

Choosing to undergo symmastia repair surgery can be a significant step. By understanding more about the procedure, you can make informed decisions about the best options for your unique needs.

If you’re considering symmastia repair surgery, speak to our friendly team today and book a free consultation. At Breast & Body Clinic UK, we can help you determine the most suitable approach for your individual goals and expectations. Our experienced cosmetic surgeons will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.

FAQs

What is a uniboob and how does it happen?

A uniboob, or symmastia, occurs when the breasts appear to merge into one without a clear separation. This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired, particularly after breast implant surgery or other breast surgeries. In acquired cases, symmastia often happens when breast implants are placed too closely together, or the skin between the breasts is stretched excessively. Plastic surgery complications can also lead to this issue.

Can symmastia be corrected without surgery?

In some mild cases, wearing loose clothing or specially designed bras can help improve the appearance of symmastia. However, in more severe cases, particularly those caused by breast implant surgery, reconstructive surgery is often required to correct the condition. Surgical procedures like capsulorrhaphy can tighten the tissue between the breasts, restoring natural cleavage.

What causes congenital symmastia?

Congenital symmastia is present from birth and is caused by abnormal development of the chest wall and breast tissue. This condition is not related to breast augmentation or plastic surgery but is a result of genetic factors. Individuals with congenital symmastia may feel like they have only one breast, as the tissue between the breasts does not develop properly to create a separation.

How is symmastia treated after breast implant surgery?

For individuals who develop symmastia after breast implant surgery, reconstructive surgery is often necessary to correct the issue. Treatment may involve repositioning or replacing the breast implants, tightening the surrounding tissues, or performing a capsulorrhaphy to restore the cleavage. Surgeons aim to correct the condition while maintaining the desired breast shape and size.
Is recovery from symmastia repair surgery painful?
Recovery from symmastia repair surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure. Most patients experience some discomfort after surgery, but this can be managed with medication. Those with smaller breasts may have a quicker recovery due to less strain on the chest area. Supportive garments or loose clothing are recommended during recovery to ensure the best results. Full healing typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual.

The information on the website is for general guidance only and cannot be used as a basis to make a surgical decision, an initial consultation with our doctor is required to help patients make an informed decision before proceeding with any surgical procedure. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek the opinion of an appropriately qualified health practitioner

Mr A. Siddiqui
About The Author

Mr A. Siddiqui

Mr Siddiqui is a Consultant Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, based at The Countess of Chester Hospital in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He trained extensively in plastic surgery before becoming a Consultant in the NHS and developing a private practice in Manchester and other areas of the Northwest. He is considered to be one of the top 10 cosmetic surgeons in Manchester.

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