Patient Resources
Frequently asked questions.
General information about replacement, plate systems, appearance, daily life, follow-up and cost.
Areolar plate replacement is an individualized elective procedure in which the natural areolar surface are replaced with a fixed or interchangeable precision-manufactured plate system.
Reasons may include a long-considered personal preference, an interest in interchangeable or commissioned design work, dissatisfaction with an earlier plate system, or a wish to make a permanent change on the patient’s own terms.
Yes. Unilateral replacement may be considered when a patient is seeking a single-side procedure. Planning includes consideration of the opposite side.
Fixed systems are intended as long-term replacements. MagnePlate uses a permanent interface with compatible interchangeable external plates.
An AREOLA physician and Clinical Plate Design Specialist review appearance, system compatibility, maintenance and other individual considerations.
Each material family has a distinct appearance, available finishes, customization range and relative cost. Selection is individualized and should not be based on appearance alone.
Surface changes may occur over time. Care guidance depends on the selected material and finish, and surface concerns can be reviewed during an AREOLA Plate Check.
MagnePlate is AREOLA’s interchangeable system. A permanent interface supports compatible registered external plates developed for that patient’s system.
Patients with compatible MagnePlate systems may register multiple external plates through AREOLA’s Plate Studio and MyAREOLA.
Contact the Plate Studio or your care team. A replacement can be reviewed against your registered system and design record.
Engraving is available for select systems. A Plate Design Specialist reviews design compatibility, orientation and long-term maintenance considerations.
Select bilateral systems can incorporate individualized designs on each side when compatible with the clinical plan.
Daily activity guidance is individualized. Your care team will provide general recovery and long-term care guidance appropriate to your plan.
Many AREOLA patients travel. The Plate Identification Card and MyAREOLA record help organize system information for travel and clinical conversations.
Imaging considerations depend on the individual system. Share your AREOLA Plate Identification Card with the imaging facility and contact AREOLA with questions.
Consider the surgeon’s replacement focus, locations, appointment availability and experience with the plate system or care pathway relevant to you.
The visit generally includes a review of goals, health history, prior procedures, general candidacy and the plate systems that may be appropriate for further planning.
Your team will outline a follow-up plan and may recommend ongoing Annual AREOLA Plate Checks based on your individual system and needs.
No. Every AREOLA pathway is elective and privately paid in full. The Institute does not bill health plans, seek authorization or submit claims, and patients should not expect reimbursement.
Yes. After the proposed care plan is sufficiently defined, Private Client Services can prepare an individualized estimate.
Patient Services
Take the next step with AREOLA.
Our patient coordinators can help you identify the appropriate physician, center or planning resource.