Premenarchal Athletic Injury to the Breast Bud as the Cause for Asymmetry: Prevention and Treatment

Some variation in breast size is normal and is common in most women. When this variation becomes large and appreciable asymmetry develops--greater than a one-cup size difference--the asymmetry often disrupts the patient's life. The etiology of most breast asymmetries is unknown; however, current theories on causes include endocrine, iatrogenic, and traumatic injury. The Tulane University Plastic Surgery Service recently evaluated two cases of breast asymmetries that developed after traumatic injury to the breast bud while the body was under increased physical stress. Both girls sustained injuries at approximately 10 to 11 years old (Tanner Stages I-II) while participating in gymnastics.