Do docs have a guide or something they use to help them cut perfect circles for the areolas? Guide or no guide? (photo)

Question

43yo seeking breast reduction from E/F

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  The areolas can be reduced to the size desired.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Hi there, and thank you for your question. The answer is yes. I can't speak for every surgeon, but at my practice (and most) a sterile instrument we often refer to as a "cookie cutter" is used to create that perfect round shape. It comes in different sizes and based on your measurements that will determine what size we choose during surgery. Keep in mind how you heal and scar will determine the end result for your nipple shape.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Yes, plastic surgeons use devices such as "cookie cutters" (which come in different sizes) to help guide them when it comes to making incisions around the areola. Having said that, as healing progresses, areola may not be perfectly circular and/or symmetrical. I hope this helps.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

During mastopexy or reduction, one of the first steps is to mark the borders of the new nipple-areolar complex with the breast tissue on stretch. This accomplished with a series of circular stencils or "cookie cutters" which are available in variable diameters. The size chosen is typically based upon breast size (with the average being around 4 cm).That being said, things can change post operative due to tension, stretch and differential healing.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

To answer your question, yes there is a device that plastic surgeons use in surgery that will mark a perfectly round areola. Keep in mind that the final shape is somewhat dependent on the skin tension.   Humans rarely have perfectly round areolas.  Best wishes.

Do docs have a guide or something they use to help them cut perfect circles for the areolas? Guide or no guide? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Areolar guides

Answer: Areolar guides

Answer: Tool for round areolas

Answer: Tool for round areolas

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.

Do docs have a guide or something they use to help them cut perfect circles for the areolas? Guide or no guide? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Areolar guides

Answer: Areolar guides

Answer: Tool for round areolas

Answer: Tool for round areolas

Browse related questions

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.