Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD - The Aesthetic Institute
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Can I Get Nipple Or Areola Reduction Along With My Breast Surgery?

3 Minute Read: 

Oversized or large nipples are due to a rare condition that can lead to significant distress and confidence issues for both women and men. 

Mid body shot of nude woman covering her breasts

Large areolas — on the other hand — are more common, and while some women are unconcerned or even happy with them, other women prefer a smaller, more proportionate nipple-areola complex (NAC). 

When Should I Consider Surgical Treatment for Large Nipples or Areolas?

If your prominent nipples or areolas don’t cause you any problems, there’s no reason to undergo the procedure. However, if you are planning to have another breast enhancement surgery and have been thinking about addressing this issue, there couldn’t be a better time. 

Conversely, if you have serious concerns about your large areolas or nipples and are considering surgery to reduce them, you should also think about your ideal breast size, shape, and position before scheduling your consultation. 

Be sure to schedule your consultation with a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr Wald and ask about all your options.

Breast Surgeries You Can Combine With Nipple or Areola Reduction

The two conditions can occur together or independently of each other, and correction involves one or two simple techniques that can easily be combined with the following:

You can also add tummy tuck surgery or a liposuction procedure for a complete Mommy Makeover!

What Is Involved in Surgery to Reduce the Size of Large Areolas and Nipples?

Areola reduction is usually performed under local anesthesia, but when combined with another breast surgery, chances are you will require general anesthesia. 

The doctor will make the incision around the areola and remove any excess tissue contributing to its large size or puffiness. The incision is then closed with permanent sutures with a scar minimizing technique, and gauze dressings are applied.

Nipple reduction involves excising a circular band of tissue at the base of the nipple, then suturing the remaining nipple to its new, shorter base.

What to Expect From Nipple or Areola Reduction Recovery?

Immediately after areola or nipple reduction surgery, you should expect some swelling, bruising, numbness, and tingling; however, this should subside significantly after the first week and entirely soon after. 

You will be instructed to wear a surgical or compression bra after your procedure to maintain your nipple’s new position for better results. 

While you may be able to resume your regular routine in about one week, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity or exercise for at least three weeks following surgery.

Why Should I Combine Nipple or Areola Reduction With Breast Surgery?

If the oversized appearance is the only thing that displeases you about the look of your breasts, then there is no reason to combine or undergo another breast surgery. However, that is not the case for many women. 

Most women have something that they don’t like about their breasts. Maybe they are too small. Alternatively, they are too large and cumbersome. Maybe pregnancy and breastfeeding has left them hanging a bit south. Or, maybe they are asymmetrical. There is no shortage of reasons why women can become displeased with their breast appearance. 

If this is the case for you, why not take this opportunity to adjust the shape, size, or position of your breasts. 

Combining your breast procedures saves money and time while experiencing only one recovery period rather than two. 

Orange County’s Cosmetic Breast Surgeon

Dr. Robert Wald is a well-respected, board-certified plastic surgeon with the skill and experience you can rely on for the best possible results. He offers breast enhancement surgery, including nipple and areola reduction, in Fullerton and serves all of Orange County.

If you are ready for cosmetic breast surgery, call our Fullerton, California, office at (714) 312-3549 today or scroll down to schedule a consultation online.

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Robert Wald, MD
100 E. Valencia Mesa Drive, Suite 300
Fullerton, CA 92835


Phone: 714-312-3549
Fax: 714-738-1862

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