Unevenly Stretched Areola — will explant help or do I need an areola reduction? (Photo)

Question

I’ll be explanting in a few weeks and one of my areolas is very unevenly stretched. I’ve had my primary augmentation and then a downsizing revision shortly after all within the last two years. I’ve suffered from bottoming out quickly after both procedures and will explant to finally rid myself of the headache. My other areola is just fine, this one not so much. Will I need an areola reduction? Is this something that will resolve once the implants are removed?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Generous908190, thank you for your question.  You could have an explant with total capsulectomy and given that you have good mammary tissue I consider a breast lift to reacomodate the mammary tissue and lift the areolas and nipples with BRALAN technique. The breast shape is improved by reorganizing the breast parenchyma.  To shed more light, I share a video. If you are considering a breast explantation, consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced in this procedure is essential to ensure optimal results. 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)

Matthew S. Kilgo, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.The appearance of the breasts after implant removal can be unpredictable. It depends on how much skin stretch has occurred secondary to the breast implants. It is not uncommon to see a significant recovery of breast shape after implant removal. It does usually take time for the skin to recover after implant removal and you may not have your final result for several months. Good luck.

Shaher W. Khan, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It sounds like you have had a challenging experience with your breast implants, especially dealing with bottoming out and uneven areola positioning. The good new is that explantation may help with some of these concerns, but the issue of uneven areola might not fully resolve just from removing the implants, especially if the stretching has been significant. A breakdown of what to expect is detailed in the attached video. The skin around the areola might shrink slightly after explanting, but if there is significant stretching, an areola reduction could be necessary to restore symmetry and balance between the two sides. It is best to discuss your concerns with your surgeon ahead of time, as they can evaluate the degree of asymmetry and recommend the appropriate procedure, which it's included in the explant surgery or a follow-up procedure after your healing process is complete.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Generous908190,
it is unlikely that implant removal will help with areola asymmetry. 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The size of the areola may not resolve when the implants are removed.  You can elect to have it corrected at the same time as the removal for better symmetry.  See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Unevenly Stretched Areola — will explant help or do I need an areola reduction? (Photo)

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Unevenly Stretched Areola — will explant help or do I need an areola reduction? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Unevenly Stretched Areola

Answer: Unevenly Stretched Areola

Answer: Areola

Answer: Areola

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implant Removal

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