The finishing touches to breast reconstruction after mastectomy for breast cancer are applied to the reconstructed nipple and breast approximately 6 weeks out from surgery. The nipple and areola tattooing procedure offers a more cost effective, time efficient and less invasive option when compared to skin grafting and surgical options.
Nipple and areola restoration is considered a paramedical procedure and is covered (if only partially) by insurance companies. The reconstructed breast is tattooed to give the appearance of a normal and natural appearing nipple and areola. When this is performed by a skilled cosmetic tattoo professional, the visible scars are minimized and the patient will view a normal appearing breast when she looks at herself in the mirror. This is important in both her psychological and emotional recovery after having been through the stress and trauma of major surgery for cancer.
These benefits apply, also, to patients who have had breast lifts (mastopexy) or breast reductions with resultant distorted areola complexes and to women who lack areola color and desire a more defined shape and more color to their areolas. When performed by a skilled professional, micro-pigmentation will provide the illusion of a nipple projection and a normal appearing areola complex.
“I thought that having my areolas tattooed was not going to make a big difference in how I feel about myself after having experienced breast cancer, but I am so glad that I went ahead and had them done. Now, when I look at myself in the mirror, I look and feel like a normal woman again. Thank you for giving me back my self-esteem!” Diane