What is nipple areola reduction and how does the procedure work?

Nipple areola reduction is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of the areola around the nipple. It can be performed for aesthetic reasons when the areolae are too large in relation to the breast or as a result of changes following pregnancy, breastfeeding or as a result of the aging process.

The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the operation. The surgeon makes an incision along the edge of the areola, removing excess tissue and correcting its shape so that the areola is proportional to the breast. After the procedure is completed, sutures are placed, which do not cause visible scarring.

How to prepare for nipple areola reduction?

Prior to surgery, a consultation with a plastic surgeon is required, who will assess the condition of the breast and plan the details of the operation. It is also necessary to perform basic preoperative tests: blood count, coagulation tests, ECG, chest X-ray and hepatitis B vaccination.

A week before the procedure, blood clotting suppressants should be discontinued, and the patient should be fasting on the day of surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon will discuss the procedure and the patient's expectations in detail.

Recuperation after nipple areola reduction surgery

After the procedure, the patient may experience moderate pain, and swelling and bruising in the breast area are also visible, which subsides within a few days. Usually the doctor recommends painkillers to relieve discomfort. For several days after the operation, the patient should avoid heavy physical exertion, and should not overheat the breasts, such as avoiding saunas or intense sunbathing.

After the procedure, a specialized support bra should be worn to help the breasts heal and form. The first effects of the procedure can be seen after just a few weeks, but the full result will be visible after a few months.

What are the contraindications to the procedure?

The procedure is not recommended in cases of: pregnancy and breastfeeding, active breast infections, unregulated diabetes, coagulation disorders, autoimmune diseases or cancer, hypertension.

The final decision to perform the procedure is made by the doctor after consultation and appropriate tests.