Restorative & Supportive Procedures

After breast reconstruction, many women notice that their reconstructed breast and natural breast don’t look or feel exactly the same. This is completely normal—since reconstruction creates a new breast mound, it can be challenging to perfectly match the size, shape, and position of the other breast.

Symmetry procedures are surgeries performed on the opposite (unaffected) breast to improve balance and proportion. These procedures are not required, but for women who choose them, they can help both breasts look and feel more alike.

Why Symmetry Procedures Are Considered

• Balance and proportion: To help the breasts look more even in clothing and out of clothing.

• Comfort: Adjusting a larger or drooping natural breast can reduce discomfort and improve posture.

• Confidence: Many women feel more comfortable and at ease when both breasts are closer in size and shape.

• Clothing fit: Balanced breasts make it easier to wear bras, swimsuits, and clothing that fit well.

Types of Symmetry Procedures

Your surgeon may recommend one of the following, depending on your needs and goals:

• Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty): Removes breast tissue and skin to make the natural breast smaller, better matching the reconstructed side.

• Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Raises and reshapes the natural breast to improve position and contour.

• Breast Augmentation: Uses an implant or fat grafting to enlarge the natural breast so it matches the reconstructed side.

• Combination procedures: Sometimes a lift, reduction, or augmentation are combined to achieve the best match.

What to Expect

• Timing: Symmetry procedures can be performed at the same time as reconstruction or later, once the reconstructed breast has settled.

• Recovery: Healing time depends on the type of procedure, but most women return to light activities in 1–2 weeks.

• Scarring: Like any breast surgery, there will be scars, but they typically fade with time.

• Insurance coverage: In the U.S., federal law requires most insurance plans to cover symmetry procedures when done after mastectomy-related reconstruction.

Benefits of Symmetry Procedures

• More natural appearance: Helps breasts look and feel more balanced.

• Improved self-confidence: Many women feel more comfortable and “like themselves” again.

• Physical relief: A reduction or lift may ease discomfort from larger, heavy breasts.

• Personalized approach: Procedures are tailored to your body and preferences.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Another surgery: These are additional procedures with their own recovery and risks.

• Not about perfection: Breasts are naturally sisters, not twins—symmetry surgery improves balance but may not create a perfect match.

• Long-term changes: Breasts can shift with age, weight changes, and gravity, which may affect symmetry over time.

Emotional Considerations

For many women, symmetry procedures provide a sense of completion, restoring balance and improving confidence after reconstruction. For others, differences between breasts are acceptable and do not need adjustment. Both perspectives are valid—it’s about what feels right for you.

A Personal Choice

Symmetry procedures are optional steps that can help create balance and harmony between your reconstructed breast and your natural breast. They are not required, but for many women, they are an important part of feeling complete after mastectomy.