Areola Reduction

On This Page

1. What Is Areola Reduction?
2. Areola Reduction Candidates
3. Areola Reduction Procedure Steps
4. Areola Reduction Results And Recovery
5. Meet Dr. Roussel
6. Consultation

What is Areola Reduction?

Areola reduction is a plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce the size of the areola, or the pigmented area around the nipple. Areola reduction uses surgical excision to bring the areola into better proportion with the rest of the breast, enhancing the overall aesthetic balance. When performed by a knowledgeable plastic surgeon, areola reduction can be an effective way to improve the proportion of the areola against the rest of the surrounding skin.

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Areola Reduction Candidates

Good candidates for areola reduction are patients who are bothered by enlarged areolae in relation to the rest of their chest or breasts. Some patients experienced pregnancy or gynecomastia which caused expansion of the areolae. Some patients were simply born with more pigmentation. To be considered a good candidate for areola reduction, you should be in overall good health and able to take time to recover after surgery. Dr. Roussel will thoroughly explain your options and perform an assessment to help you carefully select the best surgical plan for your goals.

Areola reduction can be combined with many other types of breast surgery including breast lift, breast reduction, and gynecomastia surgery. Dr. Roussel will give you a professional recommendation on the best procedure combination for your needs during your consultation.

Areola Reduction Procedure Steps

Areola reduction is an outpatient procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Roussel will help you select the right incision pattern and anesthetic for your needs. To begin, Dr. Roussel will create a small incision around the border of the pigmentation. The excess pigmented skin will be removed and the incisions will be carefully closed. Once completed, you will be prepared for your transportation home and recovery.

1 Week

Areola Reduction Results and Recovery

Recovery from areola reduction typically takes one week, during which you should avoid intensive activity and focus on resting. Dr. Roussel will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your incisions, manage swelling, and check for signs of complication. You may be asked to wear a special surgical bra or a supportive athletic bra to help support your incisions and dressings. Make sure to sleep on your back and in an elevated position to avoid swelling.

You may begin to see your results within one to two weeks of your procedure. As swelling and bruising fade, you’ll notice a better balance between the pigmented area of your breasts and the rest of the skin. Scarring may take up to a year to fade into its final appearance. When performed by a skilled plastic surgeon, you can achieve long-lasting results with your areola reduction.

Meet Dr. Roussel

COSMETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON

Dr. Lauren Roussel is a cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon dedicated to exceptionally natural results and a positive, life-changing experience. With a warm and welcoming approach to surgery, she is a premier choice for patients in the Providence area and beyond.

Meet the doctor