After Breast Reduction, areola is not flush with breast. Is this normal? (photo)

Question

I had a reduction on August 26th. I have been back to my PS for my follow-up appointments but she has not addressed my concerns. She says not to worry about it. I was hoping to get more opinions and some reassurance that it will fix itself. My right areola looks fine but my left one is not flat against the breast. Instead, it is raised up around the edges.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

One month might be too early to be concerned about position of the areola.  Often, we see it takes 3-6 months before everything is in its final place.  It will likely go down, but there's not much you can (or should) do about it at this early stage.  If it stays up many months after, then you should discuss it with the surgeon for options.

J. Garrett Harper, MD · Answer

Definitely give it some more time because swelling can stick around for several months and isn't always symmetric.  If the skin layers were sewn together at the same level (which they obviously are or you would be seeing raw tissue), then once the swelling goes down, you should be fine.  Right now, your breast and nipples are having to find new routes for blood and lymphatic fluid.  It takes some time, but I bet all will look great in the end.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

Hello,Although your incisions have healed by now, you are only three weeks after surgery.  The areola will go through significant changes, so I agree with your surgeon to let some time pass.  Most of the time, we wait 3 months or more before evaluating the final shape.  Many times someone who thought they needed a revision is pleasantly surprised that it all turns out in time. So be patient and follow your surgeon's advice.

After Breast Reduction, areola is not flush with breast. Is this normal? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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After Breast Reduction, areola is not flush with breast. Is this normal? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.