Is there a way to fix large areolas after breast lift? (Photos)

Question

I had a pretty bad case of tuberous breasts so I had them corrected surgically about 4 months ago. I'm pretty happy with the shape, however my areolas are way too big. Is there a way to fix this?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Angieliina, thank you for your question. Yes it is possible to reduce the size of the areolas. If you have already undergone a breast lift surgery and are now concerned about the size of your areolas, it is possible to revise the procedure for a more proportionate areola. However, it is important to wait at least 6 months to 1 year after the initial surgery to ensure that the tissues have healed. I link a video to shed more light. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

Yes, areola size can usually be revised, but 4 months is still early after tuberous breast correction and mastopexy. In the photos, the scars still look relatively immature, and the tissues may continue to soften and settle over the next several months. Most surgeons prefer to wait closer to 6 to 12 months before judging the final areola size and planning a revision, unless there is a clear wound problem.

The usual correction is an areola reduction/periareolar revision, sometimes with a permanent or long-lasting purse-string support suture to reduce the chance of the areola stretching again. The key issue is tension: if the breast skin is tight or the areola is being used to hold too much lift, it can widen again. Your surgeon can assess whether a simple areola reduction is enough or whether the lift pattern needs adjustment to take tension off the areola. It is very reasonable to discuss this at follow-up, but I would avoid rushing a revision while the scars are still maturing.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

Yes, there is a way to fix this. Areola reduction surgery is a common procedure that can be done to reduce the size of the areolas. This is typically done in conjunction with breast augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift surgeries.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision around the outer edge of the areola and remove a small amount of tissue. The remaining tissue is then reshaped and sutured back into place, resulting in a smaller areola with a more aesthetically pleasing shape.

It's important to discuss your concerns with your surgeon and see if areola reduction surgery is a viable option for you. They will be able to provide you with more information about the procedure and help you determine if it's the right choice for your individual needs and goals.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

Mark McRae, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your surgery.It sounds like you are happy and your main concern is the size of your nipple areolar complex.There are pros and cons to every approach. The periareolar technique is an excellent one for the condition that you have however it is limited in terms of areaola reduction. You can certainly consider an additional surgery to reduce the areola size now. The tradeoff will likely be a lollipop shaped scar that extends inferiorly on the breast. If you are otherwise happy with your breast shape and size then this is a fairly straightforward procedure similar to a breast lift. 
Make sure to consult with your board certified plastic surgeon in person to make a game plan. 
Best wishes

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Good way to reduce size of areola would be a lollipop type of breast lift. That would leave you with much better scar then if periareolar (Bennelli) lift is used. Addition of smal implants would further improve your condition. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Angieliina,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You had what I’d know as either a donut lift or periareolar lift. This is often the result. You could correct it by converting it to a lollipop type lift and I think a small implant would improve the overall appearance

Shana Kalaria, MD · Answer

Yes there is a way to fix this. The procedure is called an areola reduction (sometimes called a periareolar mastopexy) and can be done under local anesthesia. The major risk is that this problem recurs. In your case, it looks like you have enough skin, so this will likely not be an issue. Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon for your consult and surgery. Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, they can be made smaller and may need permanent sutures to prevent stretching. Please discuss this with your surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes, large areolas can be downsized through an areola reduction.  You will want to wait a few more months before considering surgery.  Once fully healed from the lift it can be done.

Is there a way to fix large areolas after breast lift? (Photos)

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