WHAT ARE TUBULAR BREASTS?

 Photo: www.realself.com

Here’s what Dr. Sterry had to say:

“This is an interesting problem and its treatment was probably best described by one of my professors, Dr. Saul Hoffman.  The basic issue is that a tight ring of connective/breast tissue develops around and under the areolar ring. This causes the remaining breast tissue to “herniate” or push through the ring and makes the breast look sort of like a mushroom. The base width is typically much smaller on the affected side. Yes, it is typically just one breast, although I have seen cases where both sides had some element of constriction. Of course, this is very troubling to young women as they are developing and can really wreak havoc on a teenager’s self-esteem as they go through puberty.

The mainstay of treatment is to operate. The constricting bands need to be divided from behind the breast in a stellate or “star-like” pattern. This requires an incision around the border of the areola (don’t worry, they heal pretty well). Then an implant is typically needed to make up for the decreased volume and base width that I mentioned earlier. It also helps to shape the breast and keeps the constricting bands from reforming. In any case, these are interesting operations and usually very satisfying because the patients are so appreciative.”

  TALK TO YOUR PARENTS AND DOCTOR

So based on what Dr. Sterry said, the next step is probably to talk to your parents and have them take you to a doctor who can recommend whether you should see a plastic surgeon; that’s important because of the physical discomfort you describe. The Internet is good for a lot of things but in this case, you really need to get an official diagnosis otherwise you’re just guessing. Once you’ve seen a specialist (if that’s what’s recommended), he or she can determine the best course of treatment and whether surgery is needed.

DON’T LET ANYTHING GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR DREAMS

I know you said you wanted to be an actress and I don’t think this should hold you back. It’s normal, as a teen to want to look like everyone else. But I think if you take a closer look, you’ll see we all have imperfections, including famous people. Look at some of those actresses you admire; maybe their teeth aren’t perfectly straight or one eye is a bit larger than the other. But those are the things that make them unique and stand out from the crowd. Start reading up on some of them… I’ll bet there’s something in there for you.

Whether you have tubular breasts and need surgery or not, keep sight of your dreams and work toward making them a reality. I don’t think you can go wrong thinking like that.

Good luck to you!