Some patients have large, long, or droopy nipples or overly large and puffy areolas. By correcting these conditions, the size and shape of the breast can be greatly enhanced.
If you are considering nipple and/or areola reduction, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr. Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.
Am I a good candidate for nipple and/or areola reduction?
Nipple and/or areola reduction can be performed at any age, but it is usually recommended to wait until breast development has stopped. You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you have large droopy nipples or overly large areolas and you have a desire to enhance their appearance so it looks more youthful.
Your personal consultation
During the consultation with Dr. Newen, you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from nipple and/or areola reduction. This will help him to understand your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.
How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for nipple and/or areola reduction?
Dr. Newen will examine your breasts and assess the size and shape of the nipples and areolas. Measurements and photos may be taken for your medical record. You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, pregnancies, previous surgeries, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.
How is nipple and/or areola reduction performed?
The surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia and generally takes about one hour to complete. You will go home shortly after your surgery.
For nipple reduction, Dr. Newen makes a small incision on the nipple itself. For areola reduction, the Dr. Newen makes an incision around the perimeter of the areola. Once the incision is complete, the Dr. Newen removes excess tissue from the area of the incision. Stitches are then used to close the incision and gauze dressings are placed over the breasts. In both cases, the incisions heal very quickly. A special surgical bra is placed over your breasts after the surgery to ensure that your breasts are held in the best position for healing.
How do I prepare for my nipple and/or areola reduction surgery?
You will be provided with complete information about what to do before your surgery, and our staff will check up on you and make sure you are ready for your procedure. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well ahead of the surgery date. You will also be asked not to take certain medications which increase the risk of bleeding. Your surgery will be performed on an outpatient basis, please be sure you have someone to drive you home and take care of you for at least the next 24 hours.
Nipple and/or Areola Reduction Recovery – How will I look and feel initially?
It is important to realize that each individual’s recovery time will be different. You will be asked to restrict your activities and relax for a few days. Generally, the greatest amount of swelling occurs 24 to 48 hours after surgery, but it may take several weeks before all swelling is resolved. You will be required to wear a compression garment over your breasts for 6-8 weeks. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of numbness, pain, swelling, and bruising.
The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients. Most patients return to work within a few days.
Understanding risks
Significant complications from nipple and/or areola reduction are very rare. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks. The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen.
Your surgical experience
Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions
Nipple and/or areola reduction surgery is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
For more information
For more information on nipple and/or areola reduction surgery or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.
The services provided have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The material on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your physician before beginning any therapy program, aesthetic treatments, plastic surgery, and other services that the Image Center provides. Any designations or references to therapies are for marketing purposes only.