Adjusting RAN performance by adapting cell coverage area can help optimize a wireless communications network. RAN topology can be adapted based on analysis of real-time load conditions of RAN base stations. Analysis of the load conditions of RAN base stations can be performed in a core-network of a wireless carrier rather than distributing the analysis to RAN-side elements. Analysis can be based on receiving real-time load information relating to key performance indicators such as X2 load, S1 load, instant outbound handover count, instant inbound handover count, etc. Further, analysis can include the application of predetermined rules relating to preferential performance of the base stations. This can facilitate ranking neighboring base stations, adding new base stations, deleting base stations, black/white listing base stations, etc., in neighbor relations data structures, such as automatic neighbor relations structures for self-organizing networks, e.g., eNodeBs in LTE networks.