Will my Nipples/Areola Ever Return to Normal?

Question

I just recently had a breat lift with augmentation approximately 2 weeks ago. My nipple/areola area is extremely sensitive right now which I know is normal and to be expected. I know they are still swollen right now, but they seem to stick out weirdly to me the few moments during the day I'm braless. Will my areola flatten out some and will my nipples return to normal?

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and pictures.  Congratulations on your procedure and it does appear that you have a good result so far.  After two weeks, swelling of the areola region is very normal.  You can definitely expecting some flattening out as swelling starts to subside over 6-8 weeks.  Scars will take longer, usually at least 6-12 months, to mature.  Good luck with the rest of your recovery.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I can't tell you whether your areola will and that your satisfaction. I can tell you that there will be significant changes over the ensuing months.

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

It is normal to have increased nipple and areola sensation after a breast lift and/or augmentation. The areolas are certainly swollen and should improve with time and flatten out.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a common question easily answered because you have thoughtfully included photographs.

	Your surgeon appears to have done a nice job of lifting and augmenting your breasts, which look entirely normal for this stage of your recovery. You even have intact nipple sensation (good for you; kudos to your surgeon, though even careful surgical technique can still have about 15% permanent nipple numbness in patients undergoing this surgery--it's about anatomy as well as surgical skill).

	The swelling will go down and your areolas will normalize as your scars soften and mature. Scars will take 6-12 months (and rarely more) to completely mature, soften, stretch , and fade.

	So, yes, they will return to "normal" in time, but that new normal will be with much more attractive uplifted and full breast appearance! Click on the web reference link below for an example of one of my own breast lift patients (without implants) whose scars settled considerably after only 7 weeks. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Patti A. Flint, MD · Answer

Wait about four months before being concerned about nipple and areolar sensation, shape, or erectile function following this surgery. The vast majority of the times, sensation and function return to pre-operative states.

Will my Nipples/Areola Ever Return to Normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Two weeks after breast lift--areolas will indeed change for the better!

Answer: Two weeks after breast lift--areolas will indeed change for the better!

Answer: Breast lift recovery

Answer: Breast lift recovery

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Will my Nipples/Areola Ever Return to Normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Two weeks after breast lift--areolas will indeed change for the better!

Answer: Two weeks after breast lift--areolas will indeed change for the better!

Answer: Breast lift recovery

Answer: Breast lift recovery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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