Is It Normal to Have Different-Sized Breasts?
Uneven breasts? Here’s what it means when the twins don’t match.
Every set of breasts are as unique as the women who carry them. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. You may have discovered, though, that there are even minor (or major) differences between the two breasts on your own chest. Is it normal to have breasts in different sizes?
Is it normal for breasts to be different sizes?
Yes, it's normal, and it affects more than half of all women. Breast asymmetry is defined as a difference in form, position, or volume of the breast. In fact, your entire body is technically asymmetrical. One side of your body is completely different than the other (although it’s not usually obvious to the human eye).
You might have different sized hands, feet, eyes, ears, and more. Your two breasts may be vary in size up to a cup.
Generally, slight differences in a woman’s breast size are not a concern. Some key differences, though, could signal a problem. Possible concerns include:
- Scoliosis
- Breast cancer
If you notice any new or unfamiliar changes to your breast, it’s always wise to call your doctor. Possible signs of breast cancer include nipple retraction, breast dimpling, or a palpable mass or irregularity.
Why are my breasts changing?
Alongside your breasts being perfectly mismatched, they can also fluctuate in size over time. This usually happens because of:
- Hormonal changes, such as throughout the menstrual cycle
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
For example, your breasts may feel fuller and more sensitive when you’re ovulating. They might also get bigger from water retention and blood flow.
What can I do about uneven breasts?
Bras to fit uneven breasts aren't yet a mainstream product, so most women make do by buying a bra size that fits the larger breast.
If your uneven breasts are causing distress or affecting your quality of life, you do have options. Some people choose to have breast reduction surgery on the larger breast, or they might choose to have an implant on the smaller breast. As with any surgery, these procedures may come with risks. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure for you to learn more.
Dr. Wu is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist practicing in New York City.
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-: It is very normal to have breasts of different sizes.
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It's called assymetry
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and this is common in different parts of the body also
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that you may have one foot that is larger than the other,
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one hand that is larger than the other.
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Patients sometimes notice it
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and they're worried by it but I tell them
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it's nothing to worry about and very common.
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So, your breast size may differ
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especially right before your menstrual cycle
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and during breastfeeding.
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Patients often say I have one breast
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that's really great at breastfeeding
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and that tends to be the bigger one
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and this will often then even out
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when you're finished with breastfeeding.
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Right before you're getting your period
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your breasts will often feel swollen,
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they may go up in size
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and you may notice a difference in the breast size
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between the two especially right before your period.
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Occasionally this can be due to a secondary reason,
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maybe a curvature in the spine called scoliosis
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or a mass in the breast
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but most women do have a little bit of a difference
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in the size and it can be up to one cup difference
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between the breasts.
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Most women notice it
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and they just buy a bra size that fits the largest breast.
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I occasionally have patients
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who are bothered by the difference in their breast sizes.
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It's very noticeable and they decide
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that they want to even out the size
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by doing a breast reduction on one side
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or maybe an implant on the other side.
Uneven Breasts. National Women's Health Resource Center. (Accessed on January 10, 2021 at http://www.healthywomen.org/content/ask-expert/1293/uneven-breasts)
Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms. American Cancer Society. (Accessed on January 10, 2021 at https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/breast-cancer-signs-and-symptoms.html)