Nipple and Areola Reduction
Large nipples and areolas are common in both men and women and can occur for various reasons like age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and genetics. Nipple or areola reduction surgery on one or both breasts is a great way to give the chest a beautiful overall appearance.
Is Nipple and Areola Reduction right for you ?
Healthy men and women wanting to reduce the size of the nipple or areola are good candidates for this procedure. Women are encouraged to wait until they are done having children to undergo this procedure, as nursing and pregnancy cause drastic body changes, especially to the breasts and nipples.
This part of the body differs for everyone, so the shape, orientation, location, and dimension will vary. Usually, the nipple is at the center of the breast, projecting outward with a proportionate areola (the circle of skin with a different pigmentation surrounding it). During your initial consultation, your surgeon will help determine if this procedure is correct for you.
Benefits
A nipple or areola reduction can address one or more of the following concerns:
Swollen nipples or areolas
Misshapen areolas
Damaged nipples
Excessively large areolas
Inverted nipples
Before surgery
A patient care concierge will guide you through the entire consultation process, which can be attended in person or virtually. During the consultation, your surgeon will learn about your goals, answer any questions, and perform an examination to create a personalized surgical plan. You will then be matched with a surgical coordinator who will walk you through each step of the preoperative process.
During surgery
Nipple Reduction:
During a nipple reduction, an incision is often made within the nipple to shorten it or create a narrower circumference. The incision will not leave noticeable scarring. Sometimes, breast tissue is removed from the undersurface to improve the result. This is typically possible through the same incision.
Areola Reduction:
During an areola reduction, your surgeon will create a donut-shaped ring around the areola and remove the skin in between. This gap will be closed by connecting the outer and inner rings via circular incision stitching. Planting the stitches around the areola’s natural border effectively minimizes noticeable scarring. A layered suturing technique is also used to create a smoother healing process and further reduce visible scarring.
After the surgery
It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising for the first day or two following the procedure. Most patients can resume their regular daily activities after this period.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for optimal post-operative care, including an advanced scar management protocol after the initial healing period. Your surgical team is always available and will closely monitor your recovery in the weeks and months following surgery.
Ready to take the next step?
Start your journey now with a virtual consultation. Have more questions? Fill out the contact form below, and a patient care representative will reach out to you shortly. We look forward to hearing from you!