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About the Areola Reduction Procedure

Areola reduction is a surgical procedure that decreases the size or changes the shape of the pigmented skin around the nipple. It can be performed as a standalone treatment or alongside breast surgery. This procedure may address:

  • Areolas that appear disproportionately large for the breast size
  • Asymmetrical areolas that differ in shape or size
  • Stretched areolas following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight changes
  • Cosmetic concerns that affect confidence or body image

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I had a breast reduction done by Dr. Bryan Criswell at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience. My recovery has gone very smoothly, and my results already look amazing.

Dr. Kara Criswell was both professional and caring. I went to her for a BBL and could not be happier with my results. I highly recommend Dr. Criswell and will most definitely be going back to her for future procedures!

My experience with Dr. Kara and her staff has been amazing. They all are so caring and helpful. After my breast reduction, she continued to call and check on me.  I am extremely satisfied with everything.

I love Dr. Criswell and his staff. 3-4 years after he did my neck lift and tummy tuck, I am still doing great. What a boost to my self-esteem! He is very honest and direct, and he ensured that everything went well.

Dr Criswell and the team were extremely kind and professional and went above and beyond for me during my liposuction. I am now 3 months post-op and get so many compliments about my midsection. I am very happy with the results. I highly recommend him!

Dr. Bryan Criswell performed my Lower Abdominal Lipo and Butt Augmentation and he gave me exactly what I wanted and more. His staff is absolutely amazing and the quality of the work is priceless. I absolutely love my results and I get a lot of compliments!

I had reconstructive surgery following my bi-lateral mastectomy after my breast cancer diagnosis. Dr Criswell has been my surgeon and ally and my cheerleader ever since! I am beyond pleased with the services of Criswell and Criswell.

Dr Criswell was phenomenal. I got a tummy tuck and am now almost four months post op and am so thrilled with my results.  I wore a bikini for the first time in 20+ years!! I would absolutely recommend them to anyone!

Dr. Kara Criswell is fantastic! She listens to your concerns and honestly tells you your surgical options and the possible outcomes. I just had a breast reduction that she performed and I am thrilled with the results!

This was absolutely the best experience I could have ever imagined for my Breast Augmentation with Dr. Criswell. The doctors and staff are wonderful and I am very pleased with the results.

I have been going to Criswell & Criswell for different services since 2022. The staff is so kind, so happy and easy to talk to and makes every experience great. I’ve also been happy with every service I’ve ever received!

My experience with Criswell & Criswell has been nothing short of amazing. From the first call (zoom) last year I knew that I had made the right decision. Dr Criswell and his staff are awesome.

I have only had a virtual appointment so far. Dr. Criswell was professional, knowledgeable and had a great bedside manner. I enjoyed meeting him!!

Dr. Kara Criswell is absolutely amazing and I highly recommend her to anyone who will listen! I really wanted a female surgeon and she has exceeded all of my expectations.

All was excellent! Dr Kara Criswell and her staff wonderfully collaborated to carry my medical intervention!

From the reception staff to the doctor, everyone was very kind and made me feel comfortable.

Dr. Criswell and his staff are top notch! Very kind and professional.

I had a virtual appointment with Dr Bryan Criswell yesterday. He is fabulous!!

Dr Criswell is always Amazing. They have beautiful offices and operating rooms. The staff is always exceptionally helpful and kind.

Incredible Experience & Beautiful, Natural Results Dr. Bryan Criswell and his entire team at Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery were absolutely amazing from start to finish.

From consult to recovery, the care was incredible.

They made me feel cared for, not just treated.

They treated me like family from start to finish.

My results are amazing and I am so happy.

They made me feel comfortable and confident.

Incredible experience and beautiful,
natural results.

Everything turned out perfect and looks so natural.

The surgery itself went smoothly, and the aftercare was amazing.

Why Choose Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa Plastic Surgery & Medspa for Areola Reduction?

Patients turn to Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa because of their reputation for precise surgical techniques and compassionate, individualized care. Dr. Kara Criswell and Dr. Bryan Criswell combine surgical artistry with clinical expertise to create results that feel natural and restore self-confidence.

The practice’s patient-first philosophy ensures clear communication and personalized planning. Whether performed as a standalone procedure or part of a larger surgery, areola reduction is approached with meticulous attention to detail, advanced safety protocols, and a commitment to long-term satisfaction.

It’s always a pleasure seeing Dr. Bryan Criswell. He and his staff have taken such amazing care of me, and everyone is always very kind and professional. They have made me feel more like family than a patient. I would recommend Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa Plastic Surgery & Medspa to anyone.

D.M.

Benefits of Areola Reduction

Reducing the size or adjusting the shape of the areolas offers aesthetic and emotional benefits. Patients often feel more balanced, comfortable, and confident in their appearance following surgery. Some key benefits include:

  • Improved balance and proportion of the breasts
  • Correction of stretched or asymmetrical areolas
  • Enhanced appearance in clothing or swimwear
  • Increased confidence in intimate settings
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Am I a Candidate for Areola Reduction?

Candidacy is determined during a consultation, where your surgeon will assess goals, anatomy, and health. Generally, good candidates are healthy non-smokers with realistic expectations. Areola reduction may be especially suitable if enlarged areolas cause discomfort, self-consciousness, or dissatisfaction with overall breast appearance.

What is the Cost of Areola Reduction in Charlotte?

The average areola reduction at our Charlotte practice averages at $3,960.

This surgical procedure is highly tailored to restore symmetry and proportion to the breasts. Because we prioritize financial transparency, your quoted price covers the entire surgical experience, including the surgical fee, local comfort measures, facility use, and all subsequent follow-up appointments with your surgeon. We also offer flexible financing options to help make your breast aesthetic goals seamlessly fit your budget.

What Happens During Areola Reduction?

Each procedure begins with a consultation, where your surgeon creates a customized surgical plan tailored to your goals. The steps of areola reduction typically include:

  1. Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia is administered in some cases.

  2. A circular incision is made around the areola to remove excess tissue.

  3. Careful repositioning of the nipple and tightening of the surrounding skin if needed.

  4. Closure of the incision with fine sutures to minimize visible scarring.

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Recovery and Results After Surgery

Initial recovery from areola reduction typically takes about one week, with patients returning to work within a few days, depending on activity level. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common but improve steadily. Final results are visible once the tissue heals and scars begin to fade, leaving a more balanced and natural breast appearance.

Variations of Areola Reduction

Different techniques may be used depending on patient goals and anatomy.

  • Standalone Areola Reduction: Focuses solely on reducing areola size or reshaping.
  • Breast Lift with Areola Reduction: Combines lifting with resizing for a youthful appearance.
  • Breast Augmentation with Areola Adjustment: Performed with implants for proportional results.

Alternative or Related Procedures

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Frequently Asked Questions Areola Reduction

Will areola reduction affect breastfeeding?

Most patients retain the ability to breastfeed, though risks depend on the surgical technique. This will be discussed during the consultation.

Does areola reduction leave scars?

Yes, but scars are typically fine and fade over time, blending into the natural edge of the areola.

Can men undergo areola reduction?

Absolutely. Men with enlarged or stretched areolas may benefit from the same procedure for improved chest aesthetics.

What are the risks of surgery?

Risks may include infection, changes in nipple sensitivity, scarring, or uneven healing. Choosing an experienced surgeon minimizes complications.

Is anesthesia required?

Most procedures are performed with local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may be recommended for combined surgeries.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you are considering areola reduction, a consultation is the first step toward restoring balance and confidence. Contact Criswell & Criswell Plastic Surgery & Medspa today to discuss your options and create a personalized plan.

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