Areola Restoration

 If you have suffered a lumpectomy or mastectomy, you may need to have one or both areolas and nipples recreated. The most realistic results can be achieved by using 3D tattooing practices that paint a picture of a nipple and areola onto the breast. It uses multiple shades and layers of tattooing to give a very realistic look. This type of complex areola simulation can be achieved with or without a nipple “button” created by your surgeon.

1. Does it hurt?

Normally, the client does not feel any pain. Each case is different though and depending on your particular surgery there may be some small amount of sensation but it usually is minimal or mildly uncomfortable.

2. How long do I have to wait after surgery to have the procedure done?

A: We require a minimum of 2 months to pass after the date of your final surgery and/or nipple reconstruction. Best to get approval from your plastic surgeon.

3. I had nipple reconstruction… can I still get tattooed?

A: Yes, although there are occasions when the pigment does not take well on the reconstructed nipple. The reconstructed nipple as well as the area around it can still be tattooed, but follow up visits may be needed to ensure adequate pigment retention in that area.

4. How long does the procedure take?

A: It typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes layout and pigment mixing. Unilateral clients can take slightly longer due to increased time mixing pigment and trying to match the color of the existing areola.

5. How long does it take for the tattoo area to heal?

A: Healing times can vary… usually it takes 7-10 days. Some slight scabbing or skin flaking will occur but this is normal. A thin coat of antibacterial ointment should be applied several times a day during the healing process. A small non-stick pad will be required for the first few days to avoid sticking to clothing. Washing the area once a day and thin coats of ointment are normally all that is required to get a good, well healed result in 7-10 days.

6. How long will the tattoo last?

A: The tattoo will last a lifetime. Some slight fading may occur over many years time, but will be minimal. Normally we try to tattoo the area lighter rather than darker, so it’s possible that a touch up visit may be required… remembering that we can always darken the area but we can not lighten it prior to completion. Thus, lighter is always better than darker.

7. Do you use sterile needles and equipment?

A: YES! All of our needles are sterile 100% disposable cartriges. Ink is poured into disposable caps that are not reused and all surfaces are cover with a protective film to avoid cross contamination. We go above and beyond industry standards to insure your safety and ours.

8. Do you have private rooms where the procedure is done?

A: YES, the room setting is private.

9. Can I use my insurance to pay for the procedure?

A: We are not health care providers, and not able to bill insurance directly. We will provide you with an itemized receipt, that some clients have submitted to insurance for reimbursement. We are unable to guarantee that they will cover this, but we will help in any way we can. It is suggested that you check with your provider prior to your procedure to be sure this service is covered.