Dr. Michael J. Yoo, MD is a Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with Expertise in Aesthetic Surgery of the Breast. Areola Reduction is a very popular procedure in our practice and patients throughout the United States have sought out Dr. Yoo for his excellent and natural results. Areola Reduction is a powerful adjunctive procedure that can significantly improve breast aesthetics and renew confidence in one’s appearance.
Before and After Photos
Commonly Asked Questions About Areola Reduction:
Who is a good candidate for an Areola Reduction?
Patients with large areolas (the darkly pigmented skin surrounding the nipple and distinct from the surrounding lighter breast skin) seek this procedure. At your consultation, Dr. Yoo will determine if you are a candidate based on your goals, medical history and physical exam.
How is an Areola Reduction performed?
An Areola Reduction is performed by removing the extra, darkly pigmented areolar skin. First a smaller circle (new areola size) is drawn around the nipple. Then another circle is drawn around the edge of the existing areola. The excess areolar skin that is between the inner and outer circles is then removed. A permanent, Interlocking Goretex Suture is finally used to bring the edges of the wound together.
How is an Areola Reduction different from a Breast Lift?
Put simply, the main purpose of an Areola Reduction is to reduce the size of the areola, while a Breast Lift is to lift the breast. What most people get confused about is the fact that each procedure can do what the other does, to a degree. Breast Lifts often include an areola reduction. Also, Areola Reduction can lift the breasts to a slight degree (varies from person to person) as shown in the examples above. Based on your goals and physical exam, Dr. Yoo can help you decide which procedure is a better choice.
Can Areola Reduction affect my ability to breast feed?
No. Areola Reduction does not remove the breast ducts that are located in the nipple. It is also important to remember, that there is a certain percentage of women who cannot breast feed, regardless of whether or not they have had a breast procedure.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The procedure can be safely performed under Local Anesthesia (area is numbed and you are awake) or under General Anesthesia (you are put to sleep by an Anesthesiologist). If you prefer the latter, there are additional fees for the Anesthesiologist and Surgery Center.
Can I see more Areola Reduction Before and After photos?
Visit our Areola Reduction Gallery to see more examples of Dr. Yoo’s work. You will also be able to see more in the office during your consult.
How long is the recovery process – when can I return to work?
Most patients feel comfortable to go back to work a few days after surgery. This, of course, varies from person to person and depends on the type of job you have. At approximately 6 weeks, you can usually resume most prior activities including exercise. It is important to remember that healing will continue up to a year. Swelling will also continue to improve month by month up to a year.