The size and shape of the areola—the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple—play a significant role in the overall aesthetics and balance of the breast. When the areolas are disproportionately large, they can draw unwanted attention even if the overall breast size is satisfactory.

At The Plastics Atelier in Omaha, Nebraska, we specialize in Areolar Reduction surgery, a precise procedure designed to decrease the diameter of the areola for a more proportional, aesthetically pleasing result that harmonizes with the rest of your breast contour.

Understanding Areolar Reduction

Areolar reduction surgery is a straightforward procedure that can be performed alone under local anesthesia in clinic. It can also be performed in conjunction with a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Augmentation under general anesthesia. The goal is to create a smaller, more circular areola that is appropriately sized for your breast mound and chest wall.

Common Reasons for Seeking Reduction:

• Natural Variation: Some women naturally have areolas that are larger than their aesthetic preference.

• Post-Pregnancy Changes: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the areola to stretch and increase permanently in size.

• Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes in weight can also contribute to areolar stretching.

• Asymmetry: Correcting a difference in size between the two areolas.

• Post-Surgical Correction: Refining the nipple-areola complex following previous breast surgery.

The Procedure: Precision and Scar Minimization

The key to successful areolar reduction is meticulous planning and surgical technique to achieve a precise size reduction while minimizing visible scarring.

1. Measurement and Marking: Dr. Hall will carefully measure and mark a new, smaller circle concentric to the original areola to determine the exact amount of skin to be removed.

2. Tissue Removal: The excess pigmented tissue is carefully excised (removed) from the outer edge of the areola.

3. Suturing: The remaining areola edge is brought together and meticulously sutured to the surrounding breast skin.

Scarring and Recovery:

A crucial benefit of this procedure is that the resulting scar is placed at the junction of the new, smaller areola and the normal breast skin. This location tends to heal very well and is often concealed by the change in skin tone, making it one of the least visible breast scars.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery is generally rapid, with most patients returning to normal activities the day after surgery.

Combining Reduction with Other Procedures

Areolar reduction is frequently performed simultaneously with other breast procedures to optimize the final result:

• Areolar Reduction + Breast Lift (Mastopexy): This is common, as a lift often involves repositioning the nipple and areola, making it the perfect time to adjust the size for maximum aesthetic impact.

• Areolar Reduction + Breast Augmentation: Combining these procedures ensures that the new areola size is proportional to the increased breast volume.

During your private consultation at our Omaha practice, Dr. Hall will assess your unique anatomy and discuss whether areolar reduction alone or as part of a combination surgery is the best path to achieve your goals.