Small Breasts (Micromastia)

Many women find having a small breast size concerning: they often report feeling self-conscious, wish their clothes would fit better, and avoid certain styles. Small breasts, or micromastia, do not necessarily indicate any health concern, but if you find that your confidence is affected by your breast size, know that it is a legitimate concern and you have options: breast augmentation ranks consistently as a top 5 plastic surgery in the U.S.

Dr. Brannon Claytor, a nationally-renowned board-certified plastic surgeon, has been helping women regain their confidence for many years now, using breast augmentation procedures that are designed to safely and effectively enhance small breasts. Below, we explore the causes and concerns related to small breasts, and discuss the plastic surgery options available to you.

Causes of small breasts

Your breast size is typically determined by a combination of genetics, hormonal influences, and body fat, but underdeveloped breasts may sometimes be caused by hormone imbalances during breast development, leading to what’s known as juvenile or virginal hypomastia (small breast size is medically termed “micromastia” or “hypomastia”). Other times, breast size can simply be a matter of genetics.

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor

Dr. Claytor is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and holds over 20 years of experience as a cosmetic plastic surgeon. An innovator and teacher in the field of plastic surgery, he uses advanced techniques like the drain-free tummy tuck and deep plane facelift to streamline recovery and provide natural-looking, durable results.

Portrait of Dr. Claytor smiling

Related concerns to small breasts

While small breasts are not a medical condition and do not cause physical health issues, they can most certainly have psychological impacts. Many women with smaller breasts can feel self-conscious in swimsuits or certain clothes, affecting their self-esteem and body image. On top of that, it can also limit clothing options and bra fitting. Unilateral micromastia, where one breast is significantly smaller than the other, can further result in breast asymmetry—another common concern among women.

For patients who have saggy breasts or a “deflated” appearance (i.e. after breastfeeding), this is called “breast ptosis” and can only be corrected with a breast lift (mastopexy).

Woman Enjoys IDEAL Implants both safe and natural looking from plastic surgeron Dr. Claytor in Bryn Mawr

Plastic surgery for small breast size

When it comes to addressing small breast size, cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) can significantly improve the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts, giving them a fuller and more balanced appearance.

Breast augmentation with implants

Breast augmentation with implants remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States and around the world. The procedure involves the insertion of a saline or silicone gel-filled breast implant to increase the volume of and create a rounder shape in the breasts, and it carries a very high patient satisfaction rate.

Saline breast implants

Saline breast implants are made of a silicone outer shell that is filled with sterile saline. If a saline implant leaks, the body safely absorbs the saline, and the breast visibly deflates. These implants can be adjusted for volume during the breast implant surgery, which allows plastic surgeons more flexibility in achieving symmetry.

Silicone breast implants

Silicone gel-filled breast implants, on the other hand, contain a silicone gel that is lightweight and feels more like natural breast tissue. Many patients choose this kind of breast-implant for its natural look and feel. However, unlike saline implants, there is a risk of silent rupture, in which the implant breaks but is not immediately noticeable. To check silicone-filled implants’ integrity at intervals over time, the FDA recommends MRI or ultrasound screenings.

Woman holding breast implants at a breast augmentation consultation

Fat transfer to the breast

Fat transfer breast augmentation, or autologous fat grafting, is a more natural alternative to traditional breast implants. This procedure involves extracting fat from one part of the body via liposuction, purifying it, and then injecting it into the breasts to increase their size. This injection method can provide natural-looking enhancement without the use of implants, but it’s important to understand the limits of this procedure: the amount of volume that can be added is limited, it will likely achieve subtle results, and fat transfer alone can not significantly affect the breasts’ shape.

Combined breast implants with fat transfer

In some cases, surgeons may combine breast implants with fat transfer when needed to achieve your goals. This combination can offer the volume enhancement of implants and the natural-looking contouring provided by fat transfer, helping to create natural transitions or conceal implant rippling, if needed.

“I had a breast augmentation by Dr. Claytor a little more than 6 months ago and I could not be happier with the results! From my first appointment to my most recent appointment, Dr. Claytor and the rest of the staff have been nothing by incredibly nice and thorough in everything they do! Someone has always been available to answer any questions I have and the whole process went very smooth! I have recommended Dr. Claytor and I will continue to recommend him to family and friends. I got the exact results I wanted!!

—5-star Review for Dr. Claytor

Choosing a plastic surgeon for breast surgery

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is a vital step in your journey towards achieving the breasts you desire. Consider these key criteria when making your decision:

  • Board-certified plastic surgeon
  • Commitment to patient education
  • Active participation in research and the plastic surgery community
  • Positive patient reviews
  • Extensive experience with breast augmentation procedures

Dr. Brannon Claytor is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped numerous women regain confidence with successful breast enhancement procedures. His empathetic approach and commitment to safety make him a trusted choice for Philadelphia plastic surgery.

Double Board-Certified for a high level of safety and precision

Chief of Plastic Surgery at Main Line Health, a top health system

Board Member of The Aesthetic Society, shaping the future of aesthetics

8x Philadelphia Magazine Top Doctor for exceptional patient care

Recognized as one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek

Drain-free recovery expert for faster, more comfortable healing

Deep plane facelift innovator and global educator

Active researcher in surgical and non-surgical aesthetic advancements

Highly regarded for his surgical expertise and outcomes, as well as his dedicated follow-up care

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Claytor today by calling (610) 527-4833 or contacting us online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Larger Breasts

Small breast size typically refers to A cup, AA cup, or AAA cup sizes, though this can vary based on band size and individual body proportions. Medically, micromastia is defined as breast tissue that fails to develop beyond a Tanner stage 3, often resulting in minimal breast volume and projection. However, many of Dr. Claytor’s breast enhancement patients have B or C cups and consider this to be small; it depends on personal preference and how your breast size compares to the proportions of the rest of your overall physique.

Small breasts (micromastia or hypomastia) are not typically a medical condition requiring treatment. However, in cases of severe underdevelopment or significant asymmetry, it may be considered a medical concern that can impact psychological well-being and quality of life.

Small breast size is primarily determined by genetics, but can also result from hormonal imbalances during puberty, certain medications, medical conditions affecting hormone production, or simply natural variation in breast development. Family history is often the strongest predictor of adult breast size.

Once breast development is complete (typically by age 18-21), natural breast growth is unlikely without hormonal changes such as pregnancy or significant weight gain. Exercise, supplements, or creams cannot increase breast size naturally.

The best candidates for breast augmentation typically have realistic expectations, good overall health, fully developed breasts, and adequate chest wall dimensions to accommodate implants. Dr. Claytor evaluates factors like chest width, skin elasticity, and desired outcome during consultation.

The ideal implant size depends on your chest measurements, desired outcome, and lifestyle.Dr. Claytor helps patients choose sizes that look natural and proportionate to their frame, typically ranging from 200cc to 400cc for smaller-framed patients.

Yes, when properly sized and placed by an experienced breast surgeon like Dr. Claytor. The key is choosing implants that complement your natural chest dimensions and using advanced techniques like dual-plane placement to create natural-looking results with smooth, seamless transitions.

Both options can work well for small breasts. Silicone implants often feel more natural and may be preferable for patients with minimal natural breast tissue. Dr. Claytor discusses the benefits and considerations of each type during your consultation based on your specific anatomy and goals.

Most women, even those with small breasts, can successfully breastfeed after breast augmentation. The incision placement and surgical technique can affect this, which is why Dr. Claytor carefully considers incision options and implant placement to preserve milk ducts and nipple sensation when possible. If this is a concern for you, please mention it during your initial consultation with Dr. Claytor so he can take it into account when finalizing your surgical plan.

The cost varies based on implant type, surgical complexity, and individual factors. During your consultation, Dr. Claytor’s team provides detailed pricing information and discusses financing options to make breast augmentation accessible.

While no non-surgical treatment can significantly increase breast size, options like well-fitted push-up bras, contouring makeup, or clothing choices can enhance appearance. Fat transfer to the breast can provide modest, natural enhancement for appropriate candidates.

Insurance typically doesn’t cover breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons. However, in cases of significant asymmetry or congenital conditions like Poland syndrome, partial coverage may be possible. Dr. Claytor’s team can help determine if your situation qualifies.

Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive breast augmentation experience, positive patient reviews, and natural-looking results. Dr. Claytor’s expertise, advanced techniques, and commitment to patient education make him a trusted choice for breast enhancement in the Philadelphia area.

“With Dr. Claytor, I was in the hands of an incredibly gifted plastic surgeon. He combines the mastery of his art with remarkable care and kindness. His entire team is also exceptional. The facility is accredited and accommodating. It is held to the highest standards of quality, safety and care. My results were beyond what I could have imagined. Dr. Claytor is an ultimate professional with a personal rapport. He delivers beauty, happiness, and confidence. He is there every step of the way. I am grateful to have selected him for my journey. Picking a plastic surgeon is a very personal experience. Dr. Claytor will be honest and straightforward on guidance for the best approach for you. He is someone you can trust. I believe he is the “best of the best”.”

—5-star Review for Dr. Claytor


Portrait of Dr. Claytor smiling

Medically reviewed by Dr. R. Brannon Claytor — Updated on Sep 18, 2025