One areola is much larger after breast lift surgery, will this be permanent?

Question

I'm three weeks post-op and my right areola is considerably larger than my left, like at least twice its size. I've also had a lot of issues with healing, one week post-op I had a very large hematoma that had to be removed from my right breast. Could that have caused the dramatic change in size? Will it shrink?

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

The size of the areola after a breast lift can change dramatically through the healing process. It is very common for them to have different sizes at this early stage, and to be quite symmetric after a few months.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi Bmoson,
  
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a breast lift surgery. However, you are still in the early stages of the healing process at 3 weeks post op.
  
Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.
  
At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues around the operated area are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides, you will be able to see the final result of your breast lift surgery.
  
But if you are still concerned, you can always visit your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns. This way, you will be reassured. Also, if after six months, you are not satisfied with the appearance of your breast, you can visit your plastic surgeon and discuss the possibility of revision surgery.
  
Lastly, follow your plastic surgeons post-operative instructions and advice for faster healing and recovery.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Aisha White, MD · Answer

Post operative swelling can cause significant asymmetries while healing.  Since you are only 3 weeks out from surgery, I predict you still have a lot of swelling.  As this resolves with time, you will likely see the symmetry of the breasts (and areolas) improve.  If you still have concerns once the swelling has resolved, I recommend you discuss these with your surgeon.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, without at least a picture and better an exam it is hard to advise. Please repost your question with a picture.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

The asymmetry may be due to the residual swelling after the hematoma removal. Give it several weeks to settle. This can be revised if need be. Good luck.

Anne Taylor, MD · Answer

Hello! the swelling can impact the areola size, so you should give it some time to settle down.If the size is different after about 3-4 months, it will likely require a small revision to improve the outcome, but this is a small procedure and usually quite easy for you.Good luck.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

You are early postop and a lot of things will change over the coming weeks. You are best to post a picture for an informed opinion.

Tyler C. Street, MD · Answer

The size of your breasts or nipple areolar complex can vary from side to side.  Early after an operation, it's too soon to tell and you need to wait for swelling to go down and healing to take place.

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

Sounds like you may need to have the larger aroelar complex made smaller and this can be done under local in the office.

Rick Rosen, MD · Answer

The best person to answer this is your surgeon. Without an examination, it is difficult to comment on this. You are still early in the post operative period, but the original surgeon is the best to answer those questions.

One areola is much larger after breast lift surgery, will this be permanent?

Answers (10)

More Breast Lift Questions

3 weeks post-op explant and lift. Is this normal? (photo)

How long is the recovery after a 360 lipo and breast lift?

Is it normal for breast to look boxy after a breast lift only - 1 day post-op.

Is this normal? Will my boobs eventually even out? Lift with no implants 7.5 weeks post. (photos)

What is the cheapest place in the US to get a breast lift?

7 days P.O. breast lift and intense itching/burning, what can I do? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS