Are there any side effects of areola reduction surgery?

Feb 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a woman considering undergoing a nipple reduction surgery and would like to know whether this procedure has any side effects. If so, what are these side effects usually?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu

In general, areola reduction surgery may have side effects.

Although areola reduction surgery can effectively improve the problem of overly large or dark areolas, it does carry some side effects and risks. These side effects may include, but are not limited to, areolar asymmetry, reduced sensation in the nipple-areola complex, infection, hypertrophic scarring, and hematoma formation. Areolar asymmetry may result from inaccurate preoperative design or uneven tissue removal during surgery; decreased nipple-areola sensation may occur due to damage to surrounding nerve fibers during the procedure; infections may arise from failure to maintain a sterile operating environment, inadequate sterilization of surgical instruments, or improper postoperative wound care; hypertrophic scarring is more commonly seen in patients with a predisposition to keloid formation; and hematomas may develop due to incomplete hemostasis during surgery.

Prior to considering areola reduction surgery, it is important to consult in detail with a qualified plastic surgeon to understand the specific surgical procedure, potential risks and side effects, as well as postoperative care and recovery. Additionally, after surgery, patients should follow the surgeon's instructions, attend regular follow-up appointments, and promptly address any complications that may arise.