At the Bengtson Center in Grand Rapids areola reduction surgery is used to address overly large nipples, and restore confidence. Because a large, dark areola stands out against light skin, and because large nipples can be visible even through clothing—especially when they are erect—patients who want these prominent parts of their chest to be less obvious can choose nipple reduction at the Grand Rapids Bengtson Center.
Women, imagine being able to wear thin, light-colored shirts without having to worry about what can be seen through the fabric! Men, think about the feeling of taking your shirt off and not wondering whether someone is giving your chest a second glance due to the prominence of your nipples.
If these scenarios sound good to you, you may be a good candidate for nipple reduction. Men and women alike visit Dr. Brad Bengtson and Dr. David Alfonso to discuss this surgery, often with a goal of being able to enjoy wearing what they want without having to worry about other people being able to spot overly large nipples or areolae through their shirt or top. The procedure can also be used to address "puffy" areolae, or to balance out an asymmetrical look where one areola is noticeably larger than the other.
When you are ready to make a transformation, you deserve partners on your journey who you trust deeply to deliver the results you want.
The highly experienced team at The Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery is led by board-certified surgeons Dr. Brad Bengtson and Dr. David Alfonso. Our surgeons are regularly recognized by patients and colleagues alike for their commitment to innovation, compassionate patient care, and top-quality outcomes. Their work is supported by the thoughtful and passionate collaboration of the entire Bengtson team.
Has consistently been named one of the Best Doctors in America® since 1996 and recognized as Best Plastic Surgeon in Grand Rapids by Grand Rapids Magazine for the last 12 years.
With over two decades of experience, he is respected for his cutting-edge techniques and compassionate patient care. In addition to his work with patients, Dr. Bengtson travels globally to share his knowledge and innovative approaches with fellow plastic surgeons. He is passionate about delivering harmonious, natural-looking results that elevate rather than alter each patient’s unique aesthetic.
Watch Dr. Bengtson’s VideoHas extensive experience performing a range of surgical and non-surgical procedures, with a particular passion for body contouring and facial rejuvenation.
A careful listener and passionate practitioner, he has received numerous accolades, including recognition as a RealSelf Top Doctor since 2015. He also contributes to advancing techniques in the plastic surgery community through regular publications and lectures. Dr. Alfonso is a fluent Spanish speaker, which helps him provide exceptional communication and care to a broader range of patients.
Watch Dr. Alfonso’s VideoUnderstand her patient’s goals, motivations and desires and is always excited to partner with them to achieve safe and exceptional results.
Her philosophy is founded in individuality, enhancement of one’s own natural beauty and in helping her patients restore harmony between their physical body and their truest self. She is committed to excellence and dedicated to using her surgical expertise to help her patients feel strong, beautiful and confident.
Patients may choose areola reduction apart from or in addition to nipple reduction surgery or in combination with other breast enhancement procedures such as breast augmentation or breast reduction. For this procedure, Dr. Bengtson or Dr. Alfonso will remove a circular portion of tissue shaped like a doughnut: round, with an open space in the middle.
The border where the darker-pigmented areola meets the lighter-colored surrounding skin is ideal for camouflaging signs of the incision. With the excess tissue removed, Dr. Bengtson or Dr. Alfonso will then suture the newly smaller areola in place to prevent it from stretching out.
Every procedure at the Bengtson Center — including nipple reduction — begins with a consultation. Dr. Bengtson and Dr. Alfonso take time to not just hear what issue a patient would like to address, but also to get to know him or her as an individual.
Personal cosmetic goals can shape a procedure and its results, which makes a trusting relationship and good communication very important parts of the process. Nipple reduction surgery details depend on the starting size and shape of the nipples to be reduced, as well as the final desired look. In some cases, the nipple will be shortened so as not to appear as long. In other cases, it will be narrowed to address an overly wide appearance. Nipple reduction may also involve both strategies.
The surgery itself involves tiny incisions and small amounts of tissue removed—but these small amounts can make a big difference. Women who want to breastfeed in the future may not be ideal candidates for nipple reduction surgery, since there is always some risk involved. That said, Dr. Bengtson and Dr. Alfonso use techniques developed with an aim to preserve nipple sensitivity and sensation.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with a national reputation for beautiful results in breast surgery, Dr. Bengtson draws on his considerable experience and skill for every procedure, and Dr. Alfonso is also committed to ensuring his surgical knowledge is current with the latest developments to achieve the best results possible for his nipple reduction patients and others. No matter the specifics, a nipple reduction procedure is typically quick—just about an hour—and requires only local anesthetic, so you can get back to your typical daily activities right away!
To have a private consultation with Dr. Brad Bengtson or Dr. David Alfonso about areola or nipple reduction in Grand Rapids, Michigan, contact the Bengtson Center today: Request your appointment online or phone (616)588-8880
Both areola and nipple reduction surgery can result in some swelling and tenderness in the days following the procedure. These effects will resolve relatively quickly, though keep in mind that minor, barely visible evidence of the incisions can take up to a year to fully heal. The Bengtson Center Grand Rapids nipple reduction team will provide thorough after-care instructions, and Dr. Bengtson and Dr. David Alfonso are always available to answer questions following a procedure.
Women often combine nipple reduction with a breast reduction that reduces the volume of overly large breasts. This is especially typical in cases where a smaller breast would cause the areola and nipple to appear out of proportion with the new contours.
Men who want nipple reduction surgery frequently say they are embarrassed to go shirtless — a common complaint for guys who also deal with the effects of gynecomastia. This condition causes the development of breasts on the male body. Male breast reduction is a commonly performed procedure at the Bengtson Center, which features a private lounge specifically for men waiting for their procedures.
Are you ready to take the next step to a more beautiful you? Plastic Surgeons Dr. Bengtson and Dr. Alfonso, along with the team at The Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, provide advanced plastic surgery and cosmetic treatment for patients from Grand Rapids, Birmingham, Detroit, and Kalamazoo, Michigan. We specialize in breast augmentation, breast implants, and tummy tuck surgery, as well as laser hair removal, Micro-Needling, BOTOX Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM, and other dermal fillers. Results may vary from person to person.
Monday 8:30am – 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am – 6:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am – 5pm
Thursday 8:30am – 6:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 5pm
*Saturday 9am -12pm
Sunday Closed
*Open select Saturdays.
Please call the office for details.
