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Breast Asymmetry

 

Breast asymmetry refers to a noticeable difference in the appearance of breast size or shape when comparing one breast to the other. This can also include the position of the nipple.


Asymmetry may occur due to underdevelopment or overdevelopment of one breast(s).

Most women will have one breast slightly smaller than the other, this is common and normal.


Changes can often be seen following weight loss or gain, puberty and menopause, however, new onset asymmetry which may be suggestive of an underlying breast mass, should be referred. See Breast Lump guidelines


Surgery for breast asymmetry is considered a procedure of low clinical priority, and therefore is not routinely commissioned under the NHS.

The form and further information about applying for special consideration for ‘Procedures of Limited Clinical Benefit’ can be found here


Patients with marked asymmetry with no other symptoms can be referred to the Breast Care Nursing team at the Mermaid Centre to discuss fitting for breast prosthesis – Please send a referral letter along with the symptomatic breast referral form.

 

Advice and Guidance

There is no advice and guidance service for breast surgery.

 

References

Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Commissioning policies and EBI April 2025 (A-Z) (for publishing) (1).pdf

 

Page Review Information

Date Reviewed        06 May 2025 

Next Review Date    06 May 2027

Author                      Dr Laura Lomas