| NAR | Nipple / Areolar Reduction Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | The areola or the nipple can be reduced by excising a ring of skin. An areolar reduction removes areolar skin, leaving a scar between skin and areola. An areolar diameter between 40mm and 45mm is considered to be aesthetically pleasing. This procedure is part of a breast lift and a breast reduction. A nipple reduction removes a cuff of skin from its base and pulls the tip of the nipple downwards. The wounds are repaired with sutures under the skin which do not require removal and dissolve within four months. |
| Scars | Circular around the areola or around the nipple base |
| Operation time | 1.5 hours |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological, Functional, Symptomatic |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems (stretched, thick, abnormal pigmentation, red, retracted etc.), Skin discoloration, Wound separation, Slough, Necrosis of nipple or partial areola, Pain, Numbness, Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Aesthetic imperfections, Unfavourable shape, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction, Flat areola in areolar reduction, Loss of breastfeeding ability in nipple reduction. N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Breastfeeding over last 6 months, Poor tissue quality can cause recurrent laxity, Asymmetry cannot be entirely corrected, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, scar massage, sun protection, silicone sheets / gel, supportive garments / dressings |
| Discomfort | 1 - 2 weeks |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities after 1 week, Physical work / sports / sex after 6 weeks |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 -18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Protective bras |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
