Nipple Reduction vs. Areola Reduction
When most people think of a nipple, they probably envision the entirety of the nipple-areola complex, the darker-colored tissue in the center of the breast. However, the nipple is the most prominent feature in the middle of the complex, and the tissue that encircles the nipple is called the areola.
Differences in Reduction Techniques
With those distinctions in mind, it’s unsurprising that each reduction technique differs for the tissue involved.
Nipple Reductions
Nipple reductions are a simple procedure that involves removing the nipple tissue to make it shorter. We can also reduce its area. In either case, the technique is usually done under a local anesthetic, making it a relatively light outpatient procedure.
Areola Reduction
An areola reduction usually involves removing more tissue than with a nipple reduction. They are also very frequently paired with both breast reduction and breast lift procedures to ensure the size of the areola is proportionate to the size of the breasts. If paired with another breast procedure, a general anesthetic may be used.
That said, you can get an areola or nipple reduction on their own, in which case local anesthetic will likely be used.
What To Expect From Each Procedure
On average, nipple reductions have faster recovery times and less overall scarring. Meanwhile, areola reductions have strategic incisions that hide scar tissue well, but recovery usually takes a little longer since more tissue is removed.
Either procedure does introduce a risk to future breastfeeding. The risk is higher with nipple reductions, but neither procedure guarantees that you will lose this function.
Schedule Your Consultation
Whether you want a nipple or areola reduction or both, your next step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. York Yates. You can contact our Layton, UT, office at 801-525-8741 or submit a contact form online to get started.