Areola & Nipple Surgery

Inverted Nipples

Both men and women may complain of enlarged nipples. The brown area surrounding the nipple is called the areola (pronounced AH' RELA) and when enlarged is usually enlarged in females. The areola may be enlarged due to genetic predisposition, previously having had large breasts then undergoing tissue loss, stretching of the areola due to implants following breast lift surgery, or other reasons. Areola reduction surgery is designed to improve the overall cosmetic appearance of enlarged areolae.

Before Photo: Asymmetrical breast reduction with areola reduction.
After photo: 6 year post-op showing stable result.

There is considerable cultural and personal variability in that some women like an enlarged nipple and areola and some do not. Some men are very self-conscious about nipples showing through their clothing.

 There are several techniques for nipple reduction and the best technique for your problem will be discussed during your consultation, depending on the physical findings.

Similarly, there are a variety of techniques for reduction of the areola, and depending on the physical examination and your desires, you will be counseled as to which procedure will give you the level of satisfaction that you desire. Both procedures can be done under either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Minimal scarring is present after nipple reduction. For areola reduction, a circular scar is usually present around the areola at the brown-white junction. This scar is permanent and usually heals well. A vertical scar below the areola is often needed to help prevent stretching of the areola after the surgery.

Pain following the surgery is usually minimal. Healing takes about a week; however, patients can usually resume their normal daily schedule one to two days after the surgery.

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