Why do areolas look strangely shaped after breast reduction?

Question

I just wondered why areola’s can look very oval, not round, differently shaped after breast reduction? Out of curiosity: shouldn’t it be very easy to cut a round shape during surgery using a mold or something? Also can this oval shape change compared to one week post surgery and ten months post surgery? If so, why it that the shape can change from oval to round with time?

Christopher David Jones, MBBS, BSc, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

During breast reduction surgery a round mould is used to cut out the nipple-areolar complex. Once the excess breast tissue is removed the skin is sutured to the nipple-areolar complex. This is done under tension. It is this tension which gives the initial oval shape to the areolar. Overtime, the tension relaxes allowing the areolar to assume a rounded shape.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Surgeons may use a tool that aids them in sizing the areola during surgery.  This ensures symmetry between breasts.  During healing the tension on the sutures may cause the areola to be shaped or sized differently between breasts.  As healing continues this often corrects.  If after complete healing you still have concerns you can consider a revision.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! As things stretch and settle, there is a chance that areola can become more oblong. That is just patient anatomy and tissue health. The goal is to achieve nice, round, even areola. Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sure your surgeon cut round shapes, but breast weight can pull the round areolae into ovals. The ovals will not go back to round shapes. However, this can be fixed. Please go back to your surgeon and discuss your concerns.

Tyler Frew, MD · Answer

Hi there,
Yes we actually do use "molds" to cut the areola during surgery. And after surgery it is usually very round, however everyone skin type holds tension differently. Over time the shape can change as the skin stretches and we age.
Also, we know things tend to stretch over time so some MDs will purposely cut the areola smaller and more oval or flat on the bottom knowing that over time it will stretch to round.
All the best

Why do areolas look strangely shaped after breast reduction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Shapes

Answer: Shapes

Answer: Different skin types and tension

Answer: Different skin types and tension

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.

Why do areolas look strangely shaped after breast reduction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Shapes

Answer: Shapes

Answer: Different skin types and tension

Answer: Different skin types and tension

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.