Types of Breasts: Understanding Common Shapes and Surgical Options

It may surprise you that everyone has a different breast size, shape, and position. Even small or minor changes can completely change the appearance. The variation of shapes is caused by genetics, hormonal changes, breastfeeding, and fluctuations in weight. And it’s important to remember that it’s completely normal!

However, there are many reasons why you may not be satisfied with the appearance of your breasts, whether the size doesn’t complement your body proportions or both of your breasts are noticeably asymmetrical.

If you’re struggling with the appearance of your breasts, you can consider a breast augmentation, reduction, or lift. A plastic surgeon can provide expert recommendations and help you decide which treatment will help you achieve a more balanced result. Here’s everything you need to know about the different types of breasts:

11 Common Breast Shapes

Even with this wide range, there will still be variation within the different breast shapes. Here’s a breakdown of the 11 different types of breasts:

Round

Round breasts are equally full of volume on the top and bottom. They tend to have a consistent shape and uniform appearance.

This is one of the most popular shapes that many patients ask for when considering a breast augmentation. A plastic surgeon will likely recommend silicone or saline implants. A breast lift can also be a great procedure to consider for adjusting the shape of your breasts.

Teardrop

Teardrop breasts have a similar appearance to round breasts. However, they tend to be rounder on the bottom and have less volume on the top.

This breast shape is considered one of the most natural-looking shapes and is a popular choice for breast augmentations. It also complements a wide range of body shapes. If this is the desired shape you want, a plastic surgeon may recommend breast implants. The cost may vary and tends to run slightly more expensive than round implants.

Side Set

This breast shape is referred to as wide-set. The shape has a large gap in the middle, and the nipples point outward.

If you feel your breasts are too far apart and want to adjust the appearance, consider fat grafting or breast lift. A plastic surgeon will help you decide which procedure is best depending on the unique shape and size of your breasts and your desired results.

Conical

Conical breasts closely resemble the shape of a cone and are commonly referred to as tubular breasts. The top of the breast slopes down, and the base of the breast is small and narrow. The nipples point outward and sometimes protrude.

This breast shape commonly occurs when the breast tissue doesn’t grow properly during puberty. A breast lift or breast augmentation can help correct the tubular shape. Implants are not always necessary to adjust the appearance.

Asymmetrical

When you have asymmetric breasts, it means that both breasts have a different shape and sizes. It’s important to note that asymmetrical breasts are normal, and most breasts have slight variation between the two.

However, if both of your breasts are a different cup size and you’d like to have a more symmetrical appearance, you can consider a breast reduction or breast lift.

Bell Shaped

Similar to teardrops, bell-shaped breasts are full at the bottom and narrow at the top. But the slope from top to bottom is slightly more prominent than teardrop-shaped breasts.
Most bell-shaped breasts lean on the larger side. If you’d like the size of your breasts to be more symmetrical with your body proportions, you can consider a breast reduction or lift.

Athletic

Athletic breasts are smaller in size and have a more muscular appearance. Most athletic breasts don’t have as much volume on the top, which can lead to cap gaping.

Fat grafting or implants can correct the appearance of athletic breasts. It’s best to discuss the different implants available with your plastic surgeon to find an option that accommodates your active lifestyle.

Relaxed

Breasts with a relaxed breast shape typically have loose or thin breast tissue. They are longer in shape, and the nipples point downwards.

The best way to correct the relaxed appearance is with a breast lift. Breast lifts will help reshape the tissue and provide a more lifted appearance.

If you’re concerned about saggy breasts and want to explore treatment options, visit our Saggy Breast Concerns page for more information.

Slender

Slender boobs are longer than they are wide. They are typically smaller in size, and the nipples point downward.

Depending on the results you’re trying to achieve, you can consider a breast lift or breast implants. A breast lift would help you achieve a more lifted natural appearance. While implants will provide you with more fullness and volume.

Close Set

Unlike side-set breasts, close-set breasts have less room between them. The breasts sit in the center, leaving more room between the breasts and shoulders.

Breast lifts combined with breast implants can help reposition the breast tissue and improve the shape of the breasts. It can also help you achieve more of a gap between your breasts.

East-West

The breasts have a round appearance, but the nipples point in opposite directions. The lack of fullness on the top can make it a challenge to achieve volume or fullness in t-shirts with cleavage.

With a breast augmentation, a plastic surgeon can reposition the breast tissue to help you gain more fullness and shape. They’ll likely recommend a breast lift or implants. Both options can help make your breasts look more symmetrical. Surgical intervention can also help reposition your nipples to appear more symmetrical.

Read also our Guide to Butt Shapes and Enhancement Options.

What Can Affect Breast Shape?

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, and hormonal changes can change the shape of your breasts. Some women also experience changes in breast shape and size after menopause. You may also notice your breasts start to lose their shape with age.

Do Breasts Change Shape Over Time?

Yes, the shape of your breasts can change as you age. They can also change during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause. While this is considered a normal part of aging and life, surgical intervention can help improve your self-esteem and get you closer to your desired appearance.

FAQs

What is the Normal Breast Size and Shape?

There is no “normal” breast size or shape. Everyone’s breasts are unique and different in their way. However, there are types of boobs that are more “desired.” The two most popular breast shapes include teardrop and round. These are commonly asked for shapes when an individual is considering a breast augmentation. A plastic surgeon will make a recommendation depending on your goals and your unique body shape and proportions.

How Can I Change the Shape of My Breasts?

If you want to change the appearance of your breasts, there are a few different plastic surgery options to consider. The four most popular procedures are a breast lift, breast reduction, implants, and fat grafting. Consider scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss the options you have available for your breasts. During the consultation, they’ll sit down to discuss your unique goals, insecurities, and desired appearance.

How to Achieve The Perfect Breasts?

The “perfect” breasts will depend on the size, shape, symmetry, and proportion of your breasts. What works great on someone might not have the same appearance on someone else. The best way to achieve the perfect breasts is to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. They’ll discuss the different options you have available depending on the current shape and appearance of your breasts. They will develop a treatment plan to help you achieve your desired aesthetic goals.

Can Clothing Change My Breast Shape?

Wearing different bras or t-shirts can change the appearance of your breasts. However, if you want more permanent results, you’ll want to consider surgical intervention. This is a great way to achieve your desired results without always worrying about what you’re wearing and what looks good on your body.