Nipple & Areola Reduction

An ideal candidate for a nipple and areola reduction is a patient that may have inherited a large areola or had this since breastfeeding, having breast implants or following pregnancy. This procedure is usually undertaken along with a breast reduction, or a breast augmentation surgery - when the breast and the breast tissue satisfy the patient, this procedure can be completed on its own.

The procedure involves the surgeon, firstly identifying two circles around the nipple. The first circle indicated the desired nipple circumference, whilst the outer circle marks the current nipple circumference. The surgeon will remove the epidermis from the area between both circles, before securing the nipple towards the breast to provide the desired results.

Preparation

Before undergoing nipple and areola surgery consideration and preparation are vital elements. Those who are considering the procedure should clearly outline their targets, and openly discuss this with their consultant. Those who are considering the procedure should be aware of the risks and complications that can arise, as well as the practical changes that are needed prior to surgery. Patients are required to stop taking medication which alters blood viscosity; including aspirin. In preparation of surgery it is also highly recommended that patients avoid smoking, to provide a quicker recovery.

After the operation

Patients should avoid food consumption for around 24 hours following surgery, as well as avoiding smoking also. Patients may not be able to exercise properly for around 4-6 weeks however should be OK to return to work, around 1 week following surgery.

Recovering from nipple and areola reduction

• Patients should avoid smoking as well as any exposure to passive smoking prior to and after the procedure.
• Four to six weeks without exercise
• One week before returning to work
• Consumption should be reserved to liquids until twenty four hours after the operation.

For the large majority of adults that under go nipple and areola surgery the results will be a success with no unforeseen consequences. Despite this, the capacity for risks and complications remain, as is the case for almost all surgical procedures.

Risk and complications

• Failing to attain the results that were expected
• Excessive bleeding is a possible complication
• Permanent scarring is a possible complication
• Having a larger nipple than before surgery, or having gained no alteration

By nature, all medical procedures carry an element of risk. While the majority of patients do not experience any complication during our nipple and aerola reduction procedures, before embarking on any medical procedure, it is advisable to consult fully with the Mclean Academy so that our qualified staff can suitably discuss any risk or concerns that your procedure may pose.