The areola is the pigmented area of skin around the nipple. Its size, colour and shape vary from person to person, and differences between the two sides are common. When breast surgery is planned, the areola and nipple are assessed together with the breast as a whole.
Relevant factors include its proportions in relation to breast volume, its position on the breast, skin quality and its distance from the crease beneath the breast and the breastbone. There is no single ideal size that applies to everyone regardless of anatomy.
Reducing or repositioning the areola may form part of a breast lift or breast reduction. This leaves scars and may affect sensation and blood supply. Possible effects on the ability to breastfeed also need to be discussed during the consultation.