What are Tubular or Tuberous Breasts?

Tubular breasts, also called tuberous breasts, are a developmental breast condition that can affect one or both breasts. Whilst not harmful to physical health, this condition can cause significant emotional distress and impact body confidence.

At Cosmetic Surgery Partners London, our specialist breast surgeons have extensive experience correcting tubular breast shape using advanced surgical techniques, often combined with breast augmentation.

In this guide, we explain what tubular breasts are, why they develop, and how surgery can help.

Understanding Tubular or Tuberous Breasts

Tubular breasts are the result of a developmental difference in how the breast tissue forms during puberty. Instead of growing evenly, the breast base is constricted, leading to:

• A narrow breast base
• A high breast fold
• Enlarged or puffy areolae
• Asymmetry, a difference between the breasts
• A “pointed” rather than a rounded shape

These changes can be mild or more pronounced. The condition often affects both the appearance and symmetry of the breasts, which is why surgical correction is usually recommended for those seeking a fuller, more proportionate shape.

What Causes Tubular Breasts?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to how connective tissue develops in the breast during puberty. This leads to a tight, restrictive base that prevents normal round growth.

Tubular breasts are not caused by anything you did or didn’t do; they are a natural variation in development.

Treatment Options for Tubular Breasts

The good news is that a tubular breast shape can be corrected with surgery. The most common and effective approach involves:

1. Breast Augmentation with Shape Correction

Breast implants are often used to increase size and improve shape. Our team uses techniques that release the constricted tissue and allow the implant to fill out the lower breast for a rounder contour. Learn more about the procedure on our Breast Augmentation page.

You can also download our comprehensive Breast Augmentation Brochure (PDF) to explore your options.

2. Areola Reduction

If the areolas are enlarged or puffy, they can be reduced for a more balanced appearance.

3. Asymmetry Correction

Tubular breasts often come with noticeable differences between breasts. We may recommend asymmetrical breast augmentation to ensure both sides match in size and shape. You can also read a real patient case study on asymmetrical breast reconstruction for inspiration.

Note that difficult cases may require more than one operation to achieve the best results.

The Surgical Journey: What to Expect

Your treatment plan is fully personalised. Here’s a general overview:

1. Consultation – our surgeons assess your breast anatomy, discuss concerns, and recommend the best technique.
2. Surgery – Performed under general anaesthetic, combining tissue release, implant placement, and any areola adjustments.
3. Recovery – Most patients return to light activities within 1–2 weeks.
4. Results – Final shape and symmetry continue to improve over several months.

Before and After: Real Results

Seeing transformations can help you feel confident in your decision. Many of our patients have shared their results, showing how surgery can create a natural, rounded breast shape while restoring self-confidence.

Why Choose Cosmetic Surgery Partners London?

• GMC-registered, UK-trained consultant plastic surgeons
• Decades of combined specialist breast surgery experience
• Expertise in correcting tubular and asymmetrical breasts
• Central London hospital facilities for safe, high-quality care
• Proven patient satisfaction with natural-looking outcomes

Is Surgery Right for You?

If you feel self-conscious about your breast shape or size, correcting tubular breasts can have a life-changing effect on your confidence. During your consultation, we will explain your options, set realistic expectations, and choose the best approach for your needs.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you suspect you may have tubular or tuberous breasts and wish to explore your options, we are here to help.

👉 Book your consultation now with our specialist surgeons or download our Breast Augmentation Brochure to learn more.