Areolar Reduction Topics
Areolar Reduction Surgery
Just like breasts, areolas (the colored skin around each of your nipples) range in appearance from person to person or even breast to breast in the same person. They can vary widely in size, shape, and color. And while it’s not uncommon for them to be very large, “puffy,” or different sizes, this can often create insecurity for many individuals. Sometimes the areolas can be asymmetrically located on each breast as well.
Dr. Robert Cohen sees many patients at his Beverly Hills plastic surgery office to perform an areola reduction or adjustment procedure for patients who dislike their appearance, size, or location.
If you’re interested in this surgery, Dr. Cohen would be very happy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have. Request a consultation or call to schedule an appointment.
Beverly Hills Areola Reduction Surgery
Oversized areolas can be a result of genetics, pregnancy, weight loss/gain, or aging. Dr. Cohen’s Beverly Hills areola reduction surgery can improve the appearance of the areolas by reducing the diameter of one or both of them. Sometimes the areolar issues are due to tuberous breasts—please refer to that section for more details.
Areolar adjustment can be done by itself, or it can be performed alongside other surgeries such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction.
Under Dr. Cohen’s skilled hands, an areola reduction surgery can result in a more appealing look that is in balance with the rest of the breast.
Am I a candidate for Areola Reduction Surgery
The best candidates for areola reduction surgery are those who are healthy and realistic about their expectations for the procedure. These individuals could be those who:
- Have stretched areolas due to excessive weight loss
- Dislike their areolas after pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Have puffy or protruding areolas
- Have mismatched areolas
For females, areola reduction surgery should wait until their breasts are completely finished growing. This is usually by their late teens or their early 20s. Males who want areola reduction surgery may be able to have this procedure done at an earlier age than females.
Dr. Cohen will take the time to speak with you about your medical history and personal goals in order to evaluate if you are a good candidate for areola reduction surgery.
Can males have areola reduction surgery?
Yes. As mentioned above, males can have an areola reduction procedure even earlier than women.
More and more men are choosing to undergo areola reduction surgery in order to achieve a more masculine appearance. Just as with females, males can have areola reduction surgery alone, or it can be combined with another procedure such as a gynecomastia correction (male breast reduction).
Surgical Details about Areola Reduction
Areola reduction surgery is a relatively straightforward procedure when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Dr. Cohen will make incisions in two concentric circles within and outside the edges of the areola. He will then remove the donut-shaped surface layer of excess skin (and some of the underlying breast tissue when necessary in male patients), being very careful to leave the blood supply to the nipple intact.
The incision will be closed with under-the-skin layers of suture around the areola. These are “pulled in” to tighten the skin around the areola, which reduces its size and prevents it from stretching.
The scar is hidden around the edge of the areola, and typically fades over time.
Recovery from Areola Reduction Surgery
Fortunately, recovery from areola reduction surgery is fairly quick, and (if performed by itself) it can be done under local anesthesia. Although there may be some swelling and bruising, patients can typically go back to work or school in 1-2 days.
Dr. Cohen will provide you with detailed guidance regarding aftercare, so your recovery process will go as smoothly as possible, and our staff will also be available to answer questions anytime.
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ExploreResults and What to Expect
With areola reduction surgery, results potentially last a lifetime. You will be able to see the outcome as soon as the dressings have been taken off, however, it may take several months before the breast tissue settles and the final results are visible.
Additional Breast Procedures
Areolar Reduction FAQs
How much can the areola be reduced while still maintaining a natural appearance?
Dr. Cohen evaluates breast size, nipple position, and overall proportion to determine the ideal diameter. The goal is a balanced, natural look that fits your anatomy.
Can areola reduction help improve the appearance of tuberous breasts?
Areolar correction can be part of addressing tuberous breast characteristics, though full correction usually requires additional surgical techniques.
Will the surgery change nipple sensation?
Most patients maintain normal sensation, though temporary sensitivity changes can occur during healing. Long-term changes are uncommon but possible.
How do I know if my areolas are likely to stretch again after surgery?
Tissue quality, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and genetics all influence long-term stability. Dr. Cohen will evaluate these factors and discuss realistic expectations.
Will areola reduction improve symmetry between the breasts?
Yes. When asymmetry exists in size, shape, or position, Dr. Cohen can tailor the reduction on each side to create a more harmonious appearance.
How visible is the scar over time?
The incision is placed at the border of the areola, where color transition helps conceal it. Scars usually fade well with time and proper care.
Can areola reduction be combined with a breast lift or augmentation?
Yes, many patients undergo combined procedures to improve both the breast shape and the areolar proportion.
Can areola reduction be performed if I plan to breastfeed in the future?
The procedure typically preserves the nipple’s blood supply, but any breast surgery carries some degree of breastfeeding-related uncertainty. Dr. Cohen will help weigh the benefits and potential limitations.