An objective evaluation of breast symmetry and shape differences using 3-dimensional images

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Human Anatomy

Background:

• Natural breast asymmetry is a recognized phenomenon, yet lacks extensive documentation in scientific literature.
• Advancements in 3D surface imaging technology allow for objective assessment of breast size, shape, and contour differences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To objectively quantify the prevalence and characteristics of natural breast asymmetry using 3D imaging.
• To establish baseline data on breast symmetry for future reconstructive and aesthetic surgery outcome analysis.

Main Methods:

• Eighty-seven women without prior breast cancer or surgery underwent 3D breast imaging using 3dMD technology.
• Superimposed left/right breast images were analyzed for surface distance, contour differences, and nipple-to-notch measurements.
• Data on age, BMI, parity, ethnicity, and bra size were collected and correlated with asymmetry measurements.

Main Results:

• The left breast was larger on average (62% of cases), with a mean nipple-to-notch asymmetry of 3.2%.
• Consistent breast asymmetry was observed, with the left breast being larger by an average of +0.5 mm.
• Higher degrees of asymmetry (RMS of 5.93 mm) were associated with increased BMI, larger cup size, and chest-wall circumference.

Conclusions:

• Objective 3D imaging confirms the existence of natural breast asymmetry, with the left breast generally being larger.
• Observed differences in breast size and shape are consistent but largely unpredictable.
• Understanding baseline breast symmetry is crucial for evaluating outcomes in aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery.