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Areola Reduction and Nipple Reduction Surgery

The “nipple” area of the breast is actually composed of two parts, the nipple and the areola. The nipple is the small, pigmented projection in the center of the breast through which milk can flow from a mother to her nursing infant. The area surrounding the nipple, also pigmented, is the areola. In some women, […]

The “nipple” area of the breast is actually composed of two parts, the nipple and the areola. The nipple is the small, pigmented projection in the center of the breast through which milk can flow from a mother to her nursing infant. The area surrounding the nipple, also pigmented, is the areola.

In some women, this area of the breast may be excessively large. Either the nipple or the areola may be big or misshapen and can, for some women, be a source of embarrassment or concern.

Photo of areola reduction surgery model in sepia toneNipple Reduction Surgery

Nipples can appear too large in circumference, in length or in both. Sometimes the nipple is enlarged due to genetics and sometimes due to childbirth and breastfeeding.

Nipple reduction surgery is done as an outpatient procedure, under local anesthetic. The surgery usually takes under an hour.

Before the procedure, Dr. Ganchi will already have analyzed what needs to be done and the surgical approach to take.

Nipples that are too long and project too far or tend to droop can be shortened. Nipples that are too wide, but not too long can have the circumference reduced.

In situations where the nipple is both too wide and too long, Dr. Ganchi will both shorten the nipple and reduce its circumference in the same nipple reduction procedure.

The patient will be able to return to her normal activities within a couple of days. The ability to breastfeed is not normally affected by nipple reduction surgery.

A qualified and experienced surgeon can usually ensure sensitivity in the nipple is maintained and scarring, if there is any, is rarely visible.

Learn more about nipple reduction surgery

Areola Reduction Surgery

Again, before the procedure is even begun, Dr. Ganchi will already have gone over with the patient what results they are looking for and will have decided upon the surgical approach to take.

A woman’s areolas may be larger than usual and look out of proportion to the rest of the breast. This can be due to heredity or from a previous breast lift or breast reduction surgery. Enlarged areolas can also result from pregnancies, breastfeeding and significant weight changes.

Although no health or medical consideration exists relative to enlarged areolas, the cosmetic improvement from areola reduction surgery can have a positive effect on the patient’s self-image.

Areola reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure usually lasting approximately one hour. Recovery is relatively quick with patients returning to normal activities within a day or two. Care is taken to maintain sensitivity and to preserve the ability to breastfeed.

Nipple and areola reduction can also be done as part of another cosmetic breast surgery, such as breast reduction, augmentation or breast lift procedure. In fact, during just about all breast reduction and breast lift procedures, the size of the areola is also adjusted. This is to optimize proportion between the breast and the areola and symmetry of the two sides.

The first step of either areola reduction or nipple reduction surgery is to visit our NJ practice and have a consultation. You can tell Dr. Ganchi what changes you would like to make and ultimately how you want your nipples and areolas to appear. Together you will make a plan to get the exact results you are looking for.

This information is for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Any change in your medical care should be first discussed with your physician.