Tuberous Breast Surgery Melbourne

Tuberous breast deformity is a recognised developmental condition that affects the normal shape, structure, and proportion of the breasts.

 Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, offers personalised surgical care for patients with this condition. All tuberous breasts are very different. Through detailed planning, advanced surgical techniques, and a commitment to realistic outcomes, Dr. Kode designs treatment pathways that support each patient’s goals.

 Understanding the unique challenges of tuberous breast correction, he provides expert guidance at every step of the journey. Patients can expect a considered and individualised approach designed around their anatomy, not a one-size-fits-all model.

Understanding Tuberous Breast Deformity

Tuberous breast deformity — sometimes called constricted breast deformity — occurs when normal breast development is restricted during puberty.
 Rather than expanding evenly, the breast tissue remains tight or underdeveloped, especially in the lower pole.

Key features may include:

• Narrow breast base: The breast may appear smaller in width and projection compared to the chest wall, resulting in a flattened or tight appearance. This narrowing can limit the natural expansion of the breast and make it difficult for volume to distribute evenly.
• Elevated inframammary fold: In many cases, the natural crease under the breast (inframammary fold) is positioned higher on the chest than normal. This can contribute to a short breast footprint and give the breast an underdeveloped or “high riding” appearance.
• Enlarged or puffy areola: The areola may bulge outward due to the herniation of glandular breast tissue. This creates a prominent or “puffy” look that draws attention to the central breast area.
• Asymmetry: Frequently, one breast may be more affected than the other, leading to visible differences in size, shape, and nipple position. Mild to significant asymmetries are common in tuberous breast deformities.
• Minimal lower breast tissue: The lower portion of the breast may lack volume or projection. This contributes to a “tight” lower pole, affecting the overall balance of the breast mound.

Tuberous breast deformity exists along a spectrum — from subtle differences that might be noticed only by the patient, to more obvious shape abnormalities.
 A thorough clinical evaluation by an experienced surgeon is key to understanding the specific features present.

Why Seek Specialist Care for Tuberous Breasts?

Correcting tuberous breasts requires more than placing implants.

 The underlying constricted anatomy must be released, reshaped, and rebalanced to achieve a harmonious breast contour.

Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Melbourne, has extensive experience in breast reshaping procedures.

 His surgical approach focuses on:

• Careful release of the constricted tissue: Tight fibrous bands are strategically released during surgery to allow the breast to expand properly. This critical first step helps lay the foundation for a more natural breast shape.
• Expansion of the lower breast pole: Releasing the lower part of the breast enables the addition of volume, improving the vertical length and projection of the breast.
• Correction of areolar prominence if needed: If the areola is stretched or puffy, specific surgical techniques are used to reshape and resize it, enhancing central breast aesthetics.
• Restoration of a more proportionate breast fold position: The inframammary fold is adjusted to sit at a more anatomically natural level, supporting the breast’s lower pole and creating improved symmetry.

Importantly, each surgical plan is uniquely designed. No two cases of tuberous breast deformity are identical.

 Dr. Kode’s personalised approach recognises this variability, helping patients achieve outcomes suited to their individual anatomy — while emphasising the natural limits of surgery.

Treatment Options for Tuberous Breast Correction

Surgical Techniques

Treatment strategies are designed around the specific grade and features of the tuberous breast.

 Dr. Gary Kode may recommend a combination of the following surgical steps:

• Tissue Scoring: Small, carefully placed internal cuts are made within the tight breast tissue. This “scores” or releases the constricted fibrous bands, allowing the tissue to expand more naturally. This step is fundamental to giving the breast the ability to reshape during augmentation or fat grafting.
• Breast Fold Repositioning: In cases where the inframammary fold is unusually high, it must be surgically lowered. This adjustment is crucial for establishing a natural breast footprint and supporting a balanced lower pole, enhancing overall breast shape and symmetry.
• Areolar Reduction: Herniated or stretched areolas are addressed through surgical reduction techniques. A circular incision is made around the areola, and excess tissue is removed or reshaped to create a smaller, more proportionate areolar complex.
• Breast Implant Placement: A carefully selected implant can restore volume, projection, and shape. Dr. Gary Kode generally prefers placing implants above the muscle (subglandular) in tuberous cases, offering stable long-term outcomes without disrupting normal muscle function.
• Fat Grafting: In selected cases, fat is harvested from another part of the patient’s body, processed, and carefully injected into areas of the breast requiring volume enhancement. Fat grafting allows for precise contouring and is particularly beneficial for softening transitions between the implant and natural tissue.

Each component of the surgical plan is selected based on the patient’s anatomy, skin elasticity, volume goals, and desired aesthetic balance.

Single Stage vs. Staged Surgery

Some patients can achieve satisfactory outcomes in a single operation, particularly if the constriction is mild or moderate, and the skin envelope is relatively pliable.

In more severe cases — where tissue tightness, asymmetry, or significant volume differences exist — staged surgery may be recommended.

 In a staged approach:

• An initial procedure focuses on releasing constriction and beginning expansion.
• A second surgery refines shape, adds additional volume, or further enhances symmetry once tissues have adjusted.

Dr. Gary Kode will discuss these options thoroughly during consultation, allowing patients to make informed decisions based on their unique anatomy and goals.

What to Expect During Your Consultation with Dr. Gary Kode

Consultation is a vital part of the surgical journey.

 When visiting Dr. Gary Kode at his Melbourne clinic, patients can expect:

• Comprehensive medical history review: Dr. Kode will review general health, past surgeries, breast development history, and lifestyle factors to determine surgical suitability and plan anaesthetic needs appropriately.
• Detailed clinical examination: Careful measurements are taken of breast base width, nipple position, skin quality, and inframammary fold height. Differences between the breasts are noted to create an individualised plan.
• Discussion of goals and expectations: Patients are encouraged to openly discuss their concerns, goals, and aesthetic priorities. Dr. Kode guides discussions towards realistic, achievable outcomes rather than idealised images.
• Customised surgical plan proposal: Based on clinical findings, Dr. Kode outlines specific surgical options and their rationale, including techniques such as tissue release, implant choice, fat grafting, and fold repositioning.
• Explanation of risks and benefits: All procedures carry risks. Dr. Kode provides clear, balanced information about possible complications such as implant malposition, scarring, asymmetry, and the need for future revisions.

This structured consultation process allows patients to feel informed, supported, and prepared.

Personalised Surgical Planning in Melbourne

At Dr. Gary Kode’s Melbourne practice, no standardised surgical template is applied to tuberous breast correction.

 Instead, each plan is uniquely crafted based on:

• Severity of the deformity: Milder constrictions may need only simple release and augmentation, whereas severe deformities might require multiple techniques combined or staged interventions.
• Skin and tissue characteristics: Thinner, less elastic skin may require special implant selection and support strategies. Thicker tissues may accommodate more significant expansion.
• Patient’s desired volume, shape, and symmetry goals: Some patients seek subtle corrections, while others hope for more noticeable changes. Dr. Kode ensures that the plan is tailored to the individual’s aspirations and anatomical reality.

The result is a thoughtful, personalised surgical strategy with an emphasis on creating balanced improvements while respecting each patient’s natural tissues.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Recovery after tuberous breast correction is an important phase of the journey.

 Dr. Gary Kode’s post-operative protocols in Melbourne are designed to support healing safely and progressively.

Typical recovery milestones include:

• Support garments: Patients are advised to wear compression or supportive bras day and night for at least the first month post-surgery. These garments help reduce swelling and stabilise implant position if used.
• Activity restrictions: Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation. However, lifting heavy objects, vigorous exercise, and activities involving chest strain should be avoided for 4–6 weeks or as advised individually.
• Wound care and scar management: Specific guidelines are provided for wound care. In many cases, silicone tape or dressings are used for scar support over several months.
• Follow-up care: Scheduled reviews are conducted personally by Dr. Kode to assess healing progress, identify any early concerns, and provide tailored advice. This ensures continuity of care and proactive management.

Recovery experiences vary based on individual factors such as tissue quality, procedure complexity, and healing response.

Realistic Outcomes and Patient Considerations

Surgical correction of tuberous breast deformity aims to improve breast shape, proportion, and contour — but cannot guarantee complete symmetry or perfection.

 Natural variations in tissue elasticity, healing response, and anatomical factors play a role in the final appearance.

Patients should understand that:

• Some mild asymmetries may persist post-surgery, even with optimal techniques.
• Skin and tissue characteristics can influence final shape, and healing can vary.
• Further revisions or minor touch-up procedures are sometimes part of the overall journey.

Dr. Gary Kode stresses open, realistic conversations with every patient, ensuring that informed expectations guide the decision-making process.

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode for Tuberous Breast Surgery?

Choosing a surgeon for tuberous breast correction is a decision that deserves careful thought.

 Patients in Melbourne trust Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, for his:

• Extensive experience: Having performed a broad range of breast surgeries, Dr. Kode understands the nuanced techniques required for correcting constricted breast deformities.
• Focus on individualised treatment: Every plan is unique — not templated — ensuring that care aligns with the patient’s anatomy and goals.
• Commitment to personal involvement: Consultations, surgery, and post-operative reviews are all personally handled by Dr. Kode, ensuring consistency of care.
• Transparent and supportive communication: Information is presented openly, risks are discussed thoroughly, and patients are empowered to make informed decisions without pressure.

Choosing a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon ensures that each stage of the process prioritises technical precision, personal care, and patient safety.

FAQs About Tuberous Breast Surgery

Moving Forward with Personalised Breast Care

If you are concerned about tuberous breast features and would like to explore your options, booking a consultation with Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne can provide clarity and guidance.
 Through personalised surgical planning, careful technique, and ongoing support, Dr. Kode helps patients make informed decisions about their care.
 To take the first step, contact Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, and arrange your consultation today.

Further Reading about Tuberous Breast Surgery

• Read more about Breast Augmentation Melbourne
• Read more about Fat Transfer to Breast Melbourne