Does breastfeeding cause the areola to change shape or look deformed? I’m a single mother of two and I’ve noticed some changes, but I’m not sure of the cause.

A: Breast feeding and areolar shape

Contrary to popular belief, breast feeding does not significantly alter your breast or areolar size/shape. It’s pregnancy itself that can alter breast size and shape, this includes the areolas. Once you’re done having children, it’s appropriate to consider an areolar reduction or mastopexy to restore your breast shape to your pre-pregnancy condition. Some patients also need breast implants to achieve the look they desire as pregnancy and breast feeding can cause loss of volume/size of their breasts.