Size of areola after breast lift - Is it possible to retain areola size or will a breast lift always result in a small areola?

Hello, thank you for your question. Yes you can indicate to your plastic surgeon that you want a somewhat larger areola. The reason we make them on the smaller end is because over time it will expand and stretch out. Its difficult to predict the size so we approximate it. You can add to the scar with scar camouflage if you choose to make it slightly larger afterwards. Speak to your plastic surgeon to see what your options are.

There are a range of areolar diameters that are considered aesthetically balanced with breast diameters. In many cases where women have large areolas, it is suggested that they be reduced. This is not mandatory and your areolas can be retained completely, if this is your preference. This is normally discussed during a consultation with your surgeon as he or she reviews the procedure and your options.

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. The areolas can be any size you desire.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Unusually larger, ptotic breasts have larger areolas. However, unless areolas are very large, it is possible to keep desired size in the process of breast lift. This needs to be discussed with your plastic surgeon ahead of surgery. Good luck.

You certainly have the choice of what size you would like your areolas to be post surgery. There are average sizes and some people desires larger or smaller. Have a discussion with your surgeon prior to surgery to ensure the areola sizer for you is available and ready during your case.

A large areola with a lift looks terrible. And the areola stretches after surgery. If your areola ends up too small it is quite simple to make it larger. If it ends up too large, reducing it later is difficult

Dear PB86,
my preferred lift is a lollipop lift when a periareolar won't do (ie greater than 2cm lift required). The lollipop technique was created by a Canadian plastic surgeon named Elizabeth Hall-Findley and treats the breast as a three dimensional structure instead of two dimensions (anchor - lift). Most importantly it does not require the horizontal component scars that the anchor-lift requires and breasts appear much more natural, lifted, and less boxy. Lastly, the lift lasts longer because the lollipop doesn't rely on the skin to hold the breast up, its actually breast tissue thats being brought together to support the breast and hence improves longevity. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Yes, you can have a lift without an areolar reduction. It's best to have a consultation where preserving your areolar tissue can be discussed, along with all of your options to achieve your aesthetic goals. Speak to your surgeon about what size you would like to have your areola after surgery.

You can request that your areolae be of a certain size when you go for a lift. Do remember that sometimes skin, including the areolae, will stretch during the healing process.

You and your surgeon decide what size your areolas are post lift or reduction. There are no set sizes, just usual accepted sizes we make them. Just ask your surgeon to keep yours larger. Bring in some naked photos of breasts with areolas you desire
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow