Special Offers
Find a Center (888) 276-1535 Schedule Consultation
Back to Main

Harmonious Breast Appearance

An aesthetically pleasing nipple plays a crucial role in the beauty of the breast. However, aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and genetics can alter the appearance of the nipple and areola, potentially deviating from your desired look. Athēnix recognizes the significance of subtle adjustments in nipple position, shape, size, and color in achieving harmonious, natural-looking breast contours.

woman in blue bra touching top

What is Nipple and Areola Surgery?

Athēnix surgeons specialize in various techniques to surgically enhance the shape, position, and aesthetics of the nipple and areola complex. Our expertise includes surgical procedures to create or restore a more pleasing appearance. These options include:

  • Nipple reduction for issues like excessive size or prominence
  • Correction of flat or inverted nipples
  • Reshaping and repositioning droopy nipples
  • Repairing damage from piercings or breastfeeding
  • Flattening puffy nipples

Is Nipple Surgery for You?

If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nipples and areolas or have concerns about asymmetry, this procedure may be a suitable option. Ideal candidates are in good overall health and want to do one of the following:

  • Enhance the symmetry between the nipples and/or areolae
  • Reduce the size of the nipple and/or areola
  • Enlarge the size of the nipples
  • Correct inverted nipples to achieve a more harmonious appearance
Banner media

Nipple vs Areola Surgical Details

Nipple Reduction & Repair Areola Reduction & Repair

Nipple Reduction & Repair

During the nipple reduction surgery, the surgeon will make minor incisions at the base of the nipple and remove surface skin from around it. The nipple will then be pulled into the areola, resulting in a shorter length and smaller diameter, improving the balance between the nipple and areola. The incision is then closed using dissolvable sutures, and gauze dressings will be placed over the breasts.

Areola Reduction & Repair

The surgeon will make two concentric circle incisions inside and outside the areola edges. Then, the surface layer of excess skin, shaped like a donut, will be removed while carefully leaving the blood supply to the nipple intact. This is closed with sutures under the skin around the areola, which will be pulled in to tighten the skin and prevent stretching, reducing its size. The scar will be concealed around the edge of the areola and will typically fade over time.

The Benefits of Nipple and Areola Reduction/Repair

  • Achieve more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing nipples and areolae
  • Correct asymmetry or irregularities in size or shape
  • Boost self-confidence and body image
  • Minimal scarring and short recovery time
  • Customizable to meet your unique needs and preferences

Once the swelling subsides, you will have newly balanced nipples that naturally harmonize with your breast appearance. Nipple surgery may lead to altered nipple sensation, with most patients experiencing some reduction. Some techniques may interfere with milk ducts, impacting breastfeeding. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can also affect nipple shape and size, potentially impacting surgery results.

there is a close up of a plant with many spikes

Your Recovery Process

Day 1-2

  • Immediately after surgery, you'll be in the recovery room for monitoring
  • You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the surgical area
  • You will likely have dressings or bandages over the incision sites
  • You should arrange for someone to drive you home and assist with daily activities

Day 3-7

  • Pain and discomfort are common during this phase, but you will be prescribed pain medication
  • It's important to keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection
  • Follow your surgeon's instructions for changing dressings and wound care
  • Swelling and bruising should gradually subside

Week 1-2

  • You may be able to return to light, non-strenuous activities, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
  • You'll have a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress
  • Your surgeon may remove any sutures or stitches during this period
  • Continue to wear any recommended compression garments or surgical bras for support

Week 2-4

  • Most of the swelling should subside, and your breasts will begin to take on their new shape
  • You can gradually increase your activity level but still avoid vigorous exercise
  • Scarring will start to fade, but it may take several months for scars to mature fully

Month 1-3

  • You can typically return to regular exercise and physical activities, but consult your surgeon first
  • Continue to wear a supportive bra if recommended by your surgeon
  • Your breasts will continue to settle into their final shape during this time

Month 3-6

  • By this point, you should see significant improvement in the appearance of your nipples and areolas
  • Scars will continue to fade and become less noticeable
  • Most of the swelling should be resolved

Month 6-12

  • Your breasts should have reached their final shape and appearance
  • Scarring will continue to mature, gradually becoming less visible
  • Follow-up appointments with your surgeon may continue to monitor your progress

Beyond 12 Months

  • By this time, your scars should be significantly less noticeable
  • Continue to follow up with your surgeon as needed for long-term monitoring
  • Enjoy the final results of your nipple and areola reduction/repair surgery

Nipple & Areola FAQ

Can males have areola reduction surgery?

Is nipple and areola reduction surgery painful?

Will I lose sensitivity in my nipples after areola reduction surgery?

How long does it take for scars to fade after nipple and areola reduction surgery?

Can I breastfeed after areola reduction surgery?

Can males have areola reduction surgery?

Yes, males can have areola reduction surgery. Areola reduction is not limited to any particular gender and can be performed on both men and women to reduce the size or correct asymmetry of the areolas.

Is nipple and areola reduction surgery painful?

Nipple and areola reduction surgery typically involves discomfort and pain during the initial recovery period. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to manage this pain. Most patients find that the discomfort gradually subsides as they heal.

Will I lose sensitivity in my nipples after areola reduction surgery?

It's possible that you may experience temporary changes in nipple sensitivity after the surgery. Some patients report increased sensitivity, while others may notice decreased sensitivity. However, these changes are often temporary and tend to resolve as the healing process progresses.

How long does it take for scars to fade after nipple and areola reduction surgery?

Scarring after nipple and areola reduction surgery can take several months to a year to fully mature and fade. It's important to follow your surgeon's scar care instructions to help minimize the visibility of scars over time.

Can I breastfeed after areola reduction surgery?

Breastfeeding may be affected by areola reduction surgery, as the procedure can potentially disrupt the milk ducts and nerves in the nipple and areola. If you plan to have more children and want to breastfeed, it's essential to discuss this with your surgeon beforehand, as they can provide guidance on the potential impact of the surgery on breastfeeding and alternative options.

Our Centers:

Fresno
Marina del Rey
Irvine
Pasadena
Portland
Scottsdale
Bellevue
Orange County
Los Angeles
Seattle
Phoenix

Let Athēnix Guide Your Nipple & Areola Reduction / Repair

Transform your nipple and areola appearance with a nipple and areola reduction/repair at Athēnix. Our network of skilled plastic surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities ensures you receive the highest level of care and expertise. Schedule your consultation today at 888-276-1535 and regain confidence in your breast appearance.

Contact us media

Schedule Consultation Unlock Your Inner Confidence

Unlock your inner beauty and confidence today. Schedule your consultation with our team of surgical experts and experience our AAAHC Certified Surgical Centers and real patient transformations for yourself.

Schedule Consultation
Contact us media

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (888) 276-1535. ©2024 Athēnix | A Northwest Surgical Development Company, Inc. The content/images on this website are not a guarantee of individual results. Individual results may vary. The information provided on this site is for general informational purposes only, and does not replace the need for a formal consultation.

Schedule Consultation
transparent image