Understanding The Procedure: Areola Reduction

According to statistics, breast augmentation surgeries are one of the most common cosmetic surgeries that women undergo. However, a lesser-known procedure that is becoming more popular is areola reduction and areola enlargement.

In this article, we will discuss with the help of Dr. Gray what areola reduction is and the reasons why women undergo the procedure. We will also discuss related topics including areola enlargement, nipple enhancement surgery, inverted nipple, protuberant & herniated nipple/areola complex, and nipple enlargement.

The Areola is a circular pigmented muscle that when contracted allows the nipple to stand erect so that a baby can drink milk. The Areola has a vital function but at times it can overwhelm the breast. Proper sizing and proportion of the Areola to the breast is a key feature in beautifying the breast.

Frequently women have areolas that are too large or unevenly shaped compared to the size of their breasts. Areola reduction is a procedure that can address this issue.

It involves removing excess tissue from around the area to reduce its size and create a more balanced and proportionate appearance without affecting function. According to Dr. Gray (West Bloomfield, MI), the technique used and where the incision is made determines the results. 

Areola reduction is commonly performed when women are undergoing a Mastopexy (breast lift). Dr. Gray using his technique can create any sized Areola desired. When a breast lift is not needed or not desired an Areola reduction can be obtained with a procedure called Areola Doughnutpexy. The Areola Doughnutpexy is often confused with a lift.

This procedure will not lift the breast but focuses on the size of the Areola only to make the Areola either smaller, larger or the same following what Dr. Gray explains is “The Law of Circumferences”.

This law states that the outer circle can not be too much larger than the inner circle in order for the two sized circles to match up. This law and Dr. Gray’s proprietary techniques create fantastic results for his patients. 

Areola reduction surgery before and after pictures: https://anewyou.com/areola-reduction-gallery/

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020, 15,778 areola reduction procedures were performed in the United States. Making it the 10th most common cosmetic surgery for women.

In addition to areola reduction surgery, there are other nipple-related cosmetic procedures that people may consider.

Areola Enlargement:

What is Areola Enlargement?

Areola enlargement is a cosmetic procedure that involves increasing the size of the pigmented area surrounding the nipple. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, and involves making small incisions around the areola.

Whether choosing Areola enlargement or reduction or just wishing to tighten the Areola, these procedures can be combined with breast lift or enlargement to further enhance your cosmetic results  

Dr. Gray’s goal is to create the perfect areola for you.

Why Women Undergo Areola Enlargement?

Some women want an enlarged areola or want to learn how to make your areola bigger, for various reasons. For some women, their areolas may be naturally small or underdeveloped. Leading to self-consciousness or unhappiness with the appearance of their breasts.

Others may have undergone other forms of surgery, which resulted in asymmetry or scarring around the areola. Thus Dr. Gray with his techniques can provide a more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking result in these cases.

Inverted Nipple:

Inverted nipple is a condition where the nipple retracts inward instead of protruding outward. Inverted nipple correction involves releasing short milk ducts that are pulling the nipple inward, allowing it to protrude naturally.

Protuberant & Herniated Nipple:

Protuberant & herniated nipple is a condition where the Areola is in excess and weak causing the nipple and Areola to protrude excessively outward. Repairing a protuberant herniated nipple /Areola complex  involves tightening the Areola by removing the excess muscle. During this procedure the size of the Areola can adjusted to larger, smaller or the same.  

Nipple Enlargement:

Nipple enlargement or nipple augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that involves increasing the size of the nipple. It can be done for various reasons. Such as:

1. To improve the overall appearance of the breast.

or

2. To provide a more natural-looking result after breast reconstruction surgery.

Procedure and Recovery Time

Areola enlargement typically takes around one hour to complete. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a few days. However, it is important to follow Dr. Gray’s post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.

In conclusion, areola enlargement or reduction are cosmetic procedures that can provide a natural-looking and proportionate appearance to the breasts. Women may choose to undergo this cosmetic procedure for various reasons.

This includes naturally small or underdeveloped areolas, asymmetry or scarring after breast reconstruction surgery. Other reasons include simply unhappiness with the appearance of their breasts.

Inverted nipple correction, protuberant & herniated nipple reduction, and nipple enlargement are other nipple-related cosmetic procedures that may be considered. Be sure to consult with Dr. Michael Gray to discuss your options and ensure a safe and successful outcome. Give us a call at 248.538.3333 to schedule your consultation.