Nipple Reduction
Some women feel self-conscious because they believe their nipples and areolae are overly large or lack symmetry. Disproportionately large areolae and nipples can give the breasts an odd or unbalanced look.
Dr. Christopher Chang performs nipple and areola reduction surgery and breast augmentation to restore a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing appearance to the breasts.
Reasons to Have Nipple and Areola Reduction
The most beautiful breasts have well positioned nipples of proportionate size with normal projection, along with symmetrical, proportionately sized, regularly shaped areolae. Women may consider nipple and areola reduction surgery if they have:
- Asymmetrical nipples or areolae
- Nipples that protrude too far
- Areolae that are too large in proportion to the breasts
- Long, droopy nipples
- Irregularly shaped or puffy areolae
How Is Nipple and Areola Reduction Surgery Performed?
Nipple and areola reduction may be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on whether it is combined with another breast enhancement surgery, such as a breast lift or breast augmentation. Either way, you can expect to return home on the day of surgery.
To reduce the areola, Dr. Chang removes a rim of pigmented tissue around the outside edge, while taking measurements to ensure symmetry between both areolae. He may use one of several surgical techniques to reduce the nipples, depending on the exact cosmetic concerns being addressed. Strategically placed sutures are used to close the incisions in a way that minimizes visible scarring.
What Is Recovery Like after Nipple and Areola Reduction?
If your surgery is performed under local anesthesia, you will not have to recover from anesthesia and will be able to drive yourself home. However, it is always best to have someone to drive you and help you through the first few days of your recovery.
A special dressing will be applied after surgery to help maintain your nipple correction position. Any discomfort you experience during recovery can be managed with medications.
Expect some post-surgical bruising and swelling, and possibly numbness and tingling, most of which should subside within a few weeks. Do not be alarmed if one breast heals faster than the other – it happens.
You should be able to return to work within a few days after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activity for at least three weeks after surgery. You may be asked to wear a surgical bra for the first few weeks of your recovery.
Benefits of Nipple and Areola Reduction
Patients who undergo nipple and areola reduction surgery report benefits that include increased confidence and self-esteem. This is particularly true in intimate situations or while wearing or lingerie or clothing in which the nipples are more visible.
Nipple and areola reduction are relatively safe procedures that can be performed under local anesthesia. These surgeries can also be easily combined with more extensive breast enhancement procedures, including breast reduction, breast lift, gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction), and breast augmentation.
Dr. Christopher Chang is among the most highly esteemed plastic surgeons in the Washington, DC area. With extensive training in cosmetic breast enhancement, he combines artistry with superior technical skills to produce beautiful, natural-looking results.
Phone: (888) 413-3923 Hours: M-F 9:00am to 5:00pm
Recent Reviews
"I have never felt so confident. Dr. Chang completely changed how I saw myself in the mirror. I was terribly self conscious of my nose from my youth and finally decided to go through with the surgery. Not only was it inexpensive compared to the other three doctors I contacted, the before and after pictures of patients were also much better looking than the others! The whole process of surgery and recovery was quick and pretty much painless. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wanting cosmetic surgery. It really made me a happier person." - Catherine M.
"My son was in a terrible accident with most of the bones in his face and skull broken... I don't know what I would have done without Dr Chang!! My son is fully recovered and back to his old self again. I love Dr Chang, he will be in my prayers for the rest of my life. Thank you!" - Elizabeth A.
"I cannot say enough about my surgery with Dr. Chang! I had full facial Rejuvenation including a facelift brow lift and upper eyelids done 4 months ago. I also had a chemical peel to my lower eyelids and mouth. They was barely any pain and I was back to work the next week! I am so thrilled and my friends are so impressed. I cannot say enough about my experience! He is both caring and an amazing surgeon! Thank you so much!" - Cathy W.
The entire experience and outcome was everything I hoped for and I cannot thank Dr. Chang enough! He is a true pro and I recommend 100% without reservation!" - Ashley R.
"I went to Dr. Chang to correct the damage done to my breasts from pregnancy and breastfeeding. He went above and beyond to make me comfortable and to explain exactly what the procedures (lift + implants) would entail. He was extremely responsive and truly understood the look that I was trying to achieve - full, natural for my frame, and with minimal scarring. I'm only two days out from surgery and I'm already loving my results. I am so glad that I chose Dr. Chang to restore my chest to its pre-baby appearance. I actually think they are going to be better than they ever were before I had kids!" - Emily L.