Areolar Reduction

Areolar Reduction surgery involves reducing the size (diameter) of the areolae (the pigmented part around the nipple). Areolas may be enlarged during puberty and breast development, and frequently become enlarged after pregnancy. Areolas often are asymmetric in shape and size when enlarged.

Enlarged areolas often make the breast look unbalanced, and older than your actual age. Enlarged areolas can be associated with a puffy appearance with the areola more prominent than the remainder of the breast. Enlarged areolas that are significantly asymmetric in some cases may be associated with a tubular type breast. Enlarged areolas can be problematic in clothing and difficult to cover in some bathing suits and work out clothing.

Precise incisions are made to reduce the excess tissue of the areola and to improve the position and symmetry of the areola as well as shape the areola to a more youthful and appropriate size relative to the breast. Absorbable sutures are used to complete the surgery. A light dressing for cover is applied. The resulting areola typically heals with minimally visible incisions. Most all areolas have some contractile tissue that when stimulated may change the shape of the areola. This action is normal, and may be more visible in some patients. This effect can be discussed during your consultation.

Removal of excess areolar tissue rarely impacts the nipple sensation.

The areolar tissue does not contribute to breast milk during breast-feeding and areolar reduction alone will not impact your ability to breastfeed. However each pregnancy is different and no one can predict whether or not you will be able to breast feed during a future pregnancy

Yes. All cases are supervised a Board Certified medical doctor who has specialized in anesthesiology.

Yes, he performs all of his patient’s surgeries. Many surgeons use assistants to suture or perform part of the operations. Dr. Rudderman performs the entire operation on every patient.

All of our surgeries are performed in a fully accredited surgery facility using state of the art technologies and a world-class staff with all the comfort and safety factors as a hospital surgery suite.

All surgeries involve some discomfort. Dr. Rudderman is highly skilled and uses advanced techniques and refined instruments that maximize comfort during his surgical procedures. Many patients will take Tylenol only, however some pain medications may be taken for relief for1-2 days after surgery.

Most patients will look close to normal right after surgery. Some patients may look nearly fully normal as the incisions healing process continues during the first few weeks following surgery. Most incisional scars continue to mature and improve over a 9-12 month time frame.

You will need to avoid all rigorous, strenuous activities for a 1-2 weeks until healing is adequate and Dr. Rudderman tells you it’s ok. Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and blood pressure and can cause the operated area to swell delaying your healing. We will see you frequently during your healing process to help you return to your normal activity as soon as possible. Exercise can be an important part or recovery, and we follow your recovery closely to help you reach your goals.

Dr. Rudderman’s patients most often return to desk jobs the next 1-3 days. He can give you a time frame specific to you during your consultation.

Areolar reduction surgeries are considered to be cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance.

Yes. Financing is available through Care Credit for all the breast procedures Dr. Rudderman performs.

You will need someone to drive you to and from your surgery, stay during surgery and remain with your overnight (24 hrs) after you have had anesthesia. Your follow-up visit will usually be within 24 hours, and you should be able to drive to this appointment if you are not taking pain pills.