Congenital Breast Deformities

Congenital breast deformities can present in many different ways, but they share a common feature: the anxiety, confusion, and social embarrassment many young women experience when they develop very asymmetric or unusually shaped breasts during puberty.

Dr O’Mahony understands how distressing this can be, especially during school years, and she has particular expertise in helping young women address these concerns.

What are congenital breast deformities?

Congenital breast deformities are usually determined before birth, with abnormal development of the immature breast bud on the chest. Because breast tissue doesn’t grow and develop until puberty, the abnormality often isn’t evident until the usual time of breast development, when the breasts fail to develop in a normal shape and/or size.

It’s usually not possible to explain why the developmental problem occurred.

Some chest injuries, burns, surgeries, or treatments like radiotherapy in childhood can also impact breast bud development and subsequent growth, resulting in similar problems that require similar correction procedures.

Some conditions include:

  • Tuberous Breast Deformity
  • Constricted Breast Deformities
  • Poland’s Syndrome, Breast Asymmetry
  • Macromastia
  • Absent Breast Development

Dr O’Mahony can discuss your specific condition and treatment options during your consultation.

This may be suitable for young women who develop asymmetric or unusually shaped breasts during puberty.

The timing of correction depends on the individual.

Ideally, surgery at completion of breast growth allows for fewer procedures, but Dr O’Mahony understands that significant asymmetries may need correction during puberty when they become too difficult to manage before growth is completed.

A final procedure may then be needed at completion of growth.

In some situations, Dr O’Mahony may ask you to see a psychologist before surgery, which can be very helpful in working through the changes that breast surgery brings.

For some procedures, psychological assessment is required by the Medical Board (AHPRA) if you’re under 18 years of age.

The best approach to correct congenital breast deformities depends on your individual situation.

Dr O’Mahony will work with you (and your family if you’re under 18) to plan the best approach for your circumstances.

Recovery varies depending on the specific condition and procedure required.

Dr O’Mahony will discuss what to expect during your consultation.

What is the best timing for surgery?
The timing depends on your individual situation.

Ideally, surgery at completion of breast growth allows for fewer procedures, but Dr O’Mahony understands that significant asymmetries may need correction during puberty when they become too difficult to manage.

A final procedure may then be needed at completion of growth.

Dr O’Mahony will work with you to plan the best approach.

Health fund coverage

Correction of congenital breast deformities is usually considered reconstructive surgery rather than cosmetic surgery, which means Medicare and health fund rebates may apply.

The value of rebates varies between funds, and it’s rare for the entire cost to be covered.

Dr O’Mahony’s office nurse will provide a detailed quote after your consultation.

For some conditions, pre-approval from Medicare is needed before surgery can proceed, which can take up to 8 weeks.

Our approach to your care

Dr O’Mahony is a specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive experience in both adult and paediatric Reconstructive Surgery and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Dr O’Mahony understands that consulting a Medical Specialist can sometimes be a daunting prospect, so she maintains a welcoming, caring and approachable atmosphere in her practice. She believes it is important for her patients to have sufficient time to make an informed decision and will consult with you as many times as you require before proceeding with surgery.

Dr. O’Mahony would be happy to talk to you about your individual needs.

Dr Susan Checking on a patient