Excess areola tissue - what would the procedure be like to have this fixed? (Photos)

Question

1 year post op and I see that there is excess areola tissue present around my areola. I am happy with the size but the excess pigmentation around the areola make it seem larger than what it is. I have read numerous answers that state that this is a straightforward procedure. Should it be done in the office setting? Or are there less invasive procedures that still produce good results. I have a very physical job and am concerned with navigating time off to address this issue. Thank you in advance.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear F.Palka,

I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gregory Lakin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The excess pigmented skin around the areola you’re describing is usually due to residual areolar tissue. The common solution is an areolar reduction procedure, which is generally a simple surgery that can often be done under local anesthesia in the office for suitable candidates. Unfortunately, pigmentation cannot be effectively fixed with non-surgical treatments (like lasers or creams) once excess tissue is present. These treatments might improve skin tone but won’t decrease the size of the areola. It's best to discuss the best option, timing, and setting with your surgeon so they can customize the approach based on your needs and schedule.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Based on the submitted photos you can consider a scar revision to improve your results.  This can be performed in the office surgical suite under local anesthesia.  It is important to understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure to determine if it is worth it for you.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an assessment regarding revision surgery, we need to see a complete set of proper before and after pictures from the first procedure can have a paragraph without knowing where you started we can’t really make a quality assessment of where you are now.
If you don’t have before, and after pictures, then ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they took.
 I’m not sure revising this is going to give you much improvement.
There’s a limit to how much skin you can successfully remove without creating more secondary issues.
Sometimes it’s better to leave good enough alone.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Excess areola tissue - what would the procedure be like to have this fixed? (Photos)

Answers (4)