Is male areola reduction different from female?

Question

I am looking in to undergoing areola reduction surgery, but there is only one surgeon in my state who lists male areola reduction as an option. There are many surgeons who do female areola reduction-- would they be a viable option? My areola diameter is about 50mm and I would like to reduce it by at least half. I have a weight of 160lbs at 5'10" so I don't have much fat in my chest. On a separate note, my nipples are also at uneven heights, can this be fixed in the same surgery? Thank you!

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry that may be helping a lot of other guys with similar issues.  There are differences between the male and female forms and shapes, and so, the techniques would naturally be approached differently.  I agree with my colleagues who have responded on your post in that it is important to communicate precisely what you want to change in more detail than diameter.  Adjustment of your asymmetry, balance in position, and nipple profile should be addressed.  All plastic surgeons should be technically adept and able to help, just don't proceed with the "one technique fits all" surgeon.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Puffy Nipple Areola Complex" is among the most common forms of gynecomastia. This gland and/or adipose tissue accumulation can be located under the areola or can be slightly extended outside the areola, causing the areola to appear dome shaped.This form of Gynecomastia can be found in all age groups but is more common in young adults. As each case is different, it is vital that a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in male breast surgery is consulted. The surgeon should determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for male breast reduction by liposuction or glandular excision. It is crucial to have a plastic surgeon who is well-versed in the gynecomastia condition can determine if there is firm breast tissue beneath the areola that is causing the nipples to project (which is often the case), and if so, how much of this glandular tissue can be removed to create a flat appearance. The excision technique is used on cases of gynecomastia where excess skin and glandular breast tissue must be removed and the areola or nipple needs reduction and repositioning to create a natural looking appearance. The incision patterns are determined by the specific condition of the patient. Men who suffer from large areolas may notice that after breast surgery, the skin of the chest muscles will tighten, causing the areolas to tighten and diminish in size. This is a result of the removal of glandular and/or adipose tissue.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your excellent question.  Similar to female patients the areola of a man can be reduced to better approximate the desired size in men, approximately 3cm in diameter.  Subtle asymmetries between the heights of each can be adjusted during this surgery as well.  Be sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon in consultation to discuss the best option for you.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

The male areolar reduction is very similar to that in the female. It is likely that many surgeons who do breast procedures would be very capable of doing this. Some movement in a particular direction can usually be obtained, but with limitations.

Jeffrey Gusenoff, MD · Answer

Areola reduction is commonly performed for male gynecomastia surgery. The biggest issue is the pleating that can occur around the nipple and sometimes this can be difficult to get to settle down over time. Make sure you see a board certified plastic surgeon who has expereicne with gynecomastia surgery. Good luck!

Is male areola reduction different from female?

Answers (7)

Answer: Male areolar reduction

Answer: Male areolar reduction

Answer: Nipple reduction

Answer: Nipple reduction

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Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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Is male areola reduction different from female?

Answers (7)

Answer: Male areolar reduction

Answer: Male areolar reduction

Answer: Nipple reduction

Answer: Nipple reduction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gynecomastia Surgery

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