Definition: the darker skin of the breast which is around the nipple in a circular area.
The reason for the darker color is that the ducts of the mammary glands are located under it. Between 15-20 small openings are located in the areola, around the nipple, from which milk is released during breastfeeding.
The reason for the darker color is that the ducts of the mammary glands are located under it. Between 15-20 small openings are located in the areola, around the nipple, from which milk is released during breastfeeding.
Pronunciation: ah-ree-o-lah
Alternate Spellings: aureola
Common Misspellings: ariola
Examples:
During a lumpectomy for ductal carcinoma in situ, a surgeon may make the incision along the curved edge of the areola, because the scar can easily be hidden there when the patient has healed after surgery.
