Does using a permanent stitch in an areola reduction surgery increase scarring?

I have done many of these procedures over my 16 years of practice. I perform a purse string suture with a permanent suture. There is some pleating to the edge of the areola which flattens over time.  It is extremely successful and I have only had to remove one suture during this time. I agree with your surgeon and make sure he is using the purse string approach. All the best!

The use of a permanent pursestring suture in an areolar reduction procedure is important in maintaining your new, smaller areolar circumference.  Without it, your areola will slowly stretch back to almost its original size. If placed properly this suture will be tolerated by your body just fine, will result in a better scar and will be barely palpable if not at all. Good luck!Thomas Taylor, MD, FACSPasadena, CA