Will my areola flatten out? (Photos)

Question

I am just over 3 weeks out of breast reduction surgery and I am concerned about my left nipple. The nipple is not in the middle of the areola and it is very puffy. I wouldn't care too much about the nipple being off center if it weren't for the puffiness of the nipple because I feel like the puffiness makes the assymetry more apparent. Is there a reason why this nipple could be puffy? Will it go away on its own or should I be concerned?

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. You are only three weeks out from surgery, so take a deep breath and do not worry. There are tapes in place which can affect swelling and healing. At this point after surgery, some asymmetry is completely normal. Follow closely with your plastic surgeon and follow his or her instructions. With time, things should improve.Best of luck!

Mahmood Kara, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your surgery!
It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.
It is important to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is crucial for healthy results.
It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place. Should a revision cross your mind, it is best to wait at least 6 months to a year before doing so. 
Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).
Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.
During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

You are early in recovery in the taping around your nipple areola is preventing the resolution of normal postoperative swelling.  Once the taping is removed.  Your areola should become much less swollen over the next 6 weeks.

Will my areola flatten out? (Photos)

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Will my areola flatten out? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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