Is an areola reduction the only option? (Photo)

Question

44 years old, 5 months post donut lift and breast augmentation. A few days after surgery I developed blisters around the stitches. I was expecting the skin to stretch a bit, but I didn’t know about the uneven pigmentation in the areola. Is an areola reduction the only option now? If so, how does that affect the implants? How long would I have to wait for that procedure? Because of the history of blisters, is it something that could happen again? Thank you!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can consider tattooing to better blend the pigmentation of the areola.  Speak with your surgeon about medical tattooing.  This would correct your concern without the need for further surgery.

David Branch, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The pigmentation may still change as things continue to heal-which takes 1 year.  If hyperpigmentation persists, areola reduction my be an option.  It is possible that you were allergic to the suture used, so I recommend you request different suture.  Keep in mind that there is still risk of uneven pigmentation even if you did not have a blister reaction.  Hope this helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mgat5, 
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Sometimes tattoo can help with pigmentation issues. 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You could have a revision now and use pullout or dissolvable sutures below the skin so that the stitch marks are not visible.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Thank you for including a picture.  However, I'm not clear as to what it is that you're trying to fix.  Is it just the loss of pigmentation, the stitch marks, did your areola stretch out more than your liking?    If it is just the pigmentation, the best option is a good tattoo artist.   If your areola is too big, or if you're looking to get rid of the stitch marks, I would do the areolar reduction, but I would add a verticle scar to help prevent it from stretching again.

Is an areola reduction the only option? (Photo)

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Answer: Revision

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Answer: Is an areola reduction the only option?

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Is an areola reduction the only option? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Revision

Answer: Revision

Answer: Is an areola reduction the only option?

Answer: Is an areola reduction the only option?

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Everything you need to know about Areola Reduction Surgery

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