Will areola reduction surgery significantly change the size and shape of the breast?

Question

I’ve reached my final size/shape for implant removal/fat transfer replacement and I’m very happy with both! However, I’ve always had larger than avg areolas (originally had tuberous breasts) and the implants seemed to have stretched this tissue more on one breast. The areola asymmetry makes them look like different size/shapes even thought they’re not. I would like to have only the larger areola reduced, but would this change the overall size/shape and result in a more pronounced asymmetry?

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Areola reduction surgery primarily focuses on resizing and reshaping the areolas, rather than altering the size or shape of the breasts themselves. However, in some cases, changes in the appearance of the breasts may accompany areola reduction surgery, particularly if the procedure is part of a larger breast surgery or if there are specific concerns about breast symmetry or proportion.

Here's how areola reduction surgery may affect the size and shape of the breasts:

Areola Size and Symmetry: The primary goal of areola reduction surgery is to achieve a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing size and shape for the areolas. By removing excess areolar tissue and reshaping the areolas, the surgeon can create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.

Perceived Breast Size: While areola reduction surgery itself does not change the volume of breast tissue, achieving more proportionate areolas can sometimes create the illusion of a more balanced breast size and shape. In some cases, individuals may feel that their breasts appear slightly smaller or more proportionate following areola reduction surgery, particularly if large areolas were contributing to a disproportionate or asymmetrical appearance.

Combined Procedures: Areola reduction surgery can be performed as a standalone procedure or in conjunction with other breast surgeries, such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction. In cases where additional breast surgery is performed, changes in breast size and shape may be more significant and may be part of the overall surgical plan to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.

It's important to discuss your specific concerns and goals with your plastic surgeon during the consultation process. Your surgeon can assess your individual anatomy, discuss potential treatment options, and help you understand how areola reduction surgery may impact the overall appearance of your breasts. They can also recommend additional procedures, if necessary, to address any other concerns you may have about the size, shape, or symmetry of your breasts.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Photos or an in person examination would be very helpful in giving you the proper recommendation.  It is possible to have one areola reduced to better match the other breast.  If your breasts are grossly symmetrical this should help balance the appearance of the breasts.  For a more personalized recommendation I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Will areola reduction surgery significantly change the size and shape of the breast?

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Everything you need to know about Areola Reduction Surgery

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Will areola reduction surgery significantly change the size and shape of the breast?

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Everything you need to know about Areola Reduction Surgery

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