Tuberous Breast

Tuberous breasts refer to a congenital deformity of breasts that starts to manifest at puberty. This deformity can occur in both males and females. It is a result of a lack of breast tissue. Tuberous breasts are also called out by many other names like breast hypoplasia, tubular breasts, conical breasts, herniated areolar complex, snoopy breasts and domen nipple.

The cause of tubular breasts is not very clear. There are some theories related to it, which are:-

1. Lack of collagen deposition
2. Result of a genetic link
3. The tissue that connects the breasts to the areola is not properly placed as it should be, thereby adding a droop to the overall shape

The most eminent signs and symptoms of tuberous breasts include:

1. Variations in the shape of breasts. Instead of round, it might be oval, square or pointed.
2. The horizontal gap between the breasts tends to be more than 1.5 inches.
3. An enlarged dark area of the areola due to hypertrophy.
4. Breasts have a saggy appearance
5. Breast tissues are constricted at the base.
6. Breasts may not be symmetric, and one of them may be larger than the other.

The basis of diagnosing this deformity is via the appearance of the breasts:-

1. The shape of the tissue is usually the same from the base to the tip
2.  Lack of breast tissue both vertically and horizontally
3. The breast base is narrow
4. The skin beneath the nipples is usually tight
5. Asymmetrical breasts
6. The nipples point inwards or downwards
7. Breasts may appear to be triangular
8. Larger than average gap between breasts

Usually, there is no risk involved with tuberous breasts, but patients do get mentally affected when dealing with the appearance of their breasts. Body shaming by peers is another issue that could hamper the personality and confidence of the patient.

1. Relieves feelings of anxiety and mental discomfort.
2. Provides symmetry to the breast
3. Help boost confidence and self-esteem
4. Enhances the appearance, done for cosmetic reasons