Nipple & Areola Reduction
What is nipple and areola reduction?
If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your areolas – the brown or pink area around the nipple – or feel your nipple itself is too large, then areola reduction surgery or nipple reduction surgery could help. The procedure is fast and relatively straightforward.
Why consider nipple and areola reduction?
Irregularly-shaped or large areolas may be genetic. Sometimes pregnancy or weight gain can cause them to become larger, change shape and even become uneven or asymmetrical. Large, protruding nipples can be visible through clothing, causing women to be self-conscious, and may even cause discomfort, particularly while exercising. Nipples may become enlarged during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Patients may feel that their nipples are too long or their areolas too large even if they are otherwise happy with the size and shape of their breasts. It is a very personal decision to choose surgery for these issues and treatment can improve their self-confidence.
Did you know?
What happens during the procedure?
Surgery to reduce the areola involves removing a small area of skin in a circle all around the areola. Mr Olivier Amar can correct any irregularities at this stage for a more symmetrical, round appearance. The surrounding skin is then brought inwards and stitched to the reduced areola. Your areolas will then be more in proportion to your breasts, and the tightening effect of the skin reduction may mean your breast may appear a little firmer and slightly lifted too.
Nipple reduction can be performed by removing a strip of skin around the base of the nipple which has the effect of reducing the height of the nipple, bringing it closer to the breast tissue.
How long does nipple and areola reduction surgery take?
The operation may take between 60-90 minutes.
WHAT FORM OF ANAESTHETIC WILL BE USED?
Both small procedures are performed under local anaesthetic as day surgery, meaning you will be able to go home shortly afterwards.
WILL I HAVE OBVIOUS SCARS FOLLOWING nipple and areola reduction surgery?
Mr Olivier Amar’s meticulous techniques will help reduce any scarring around the nipple. He is dedicated to the management, prevention and improvement of scars.
CAN ANY OTHER PROCEDURES BE DONE AT THE SAME TIME?
It’s essential to consider the harmony of the breast when looking at the areola. For example, to help restore the perfect proportion of areola to breast tissue, some patients might opt for augmentation instead.
If desired, you may combine areola surgery with a Breast Lift for a rejuvenated breast. If the areola appears out of proportion to the breast because the breast itself has become smaller, then a breast augmentation with an implant or fat transfer may restore aesthetically pleasing proportions to the breast without changing the size of the areola.
When will I start to see results from nipple reduction?
You will start to see an immediate, visible improvement as soon as the stitches are removed in the days after surgery. You will be able to see your final results and the shape of the nipple and areola within 2-3 months of the procedure, once the areola has settled into its new form and the scar has settled.
What can I expect after nipple and areola reduction surgery?Â
Your breasts will be swollen for a few weeks after the operation, this should settle between 1 week and 2 weeks. Initially you can expect to experience mild pain, which may be managed by a pain killer prescription.
You will be asked to come in for a post-operative nurse appointment one week after your surgery. At this point your incision sites will be reviewed, stitches removed and your preliminary healing will be assessed. You will come back at six week after surgery to be reviewed by Mr Olivier Amar.
How long do I have to wait to return to normal activities following the surgery?
Depending on your type of daily activity, you will usually be able to resume your normal activities after one to two weeks. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Mr Olivier Amar will discuss this with you in further detail at your consultation.
