3D Nipple Restoration
Forever YoursUnderstanding Medical Art
For some breast cancer survivors, nipple-areola tattoos can be an important final step in the reconstruction process which involves tattooing a nipple on the skin and adding color and shading in such a way that it looks three-dimensional and hyperrealistic.
All of my pink sisters had their nipples surgically reconstructed. After having three surgeries, I decided not to have another. I met a wonderful person named April who completely understood my desire to have my nipples/areolas done. I must say it was an awesome experience that one could ever have. The final results brought tears to my eyes. I look and feel amazing!
“Words can’t express enough how having this tattoo completed has changed my life. As a survivor, it was the final piece of the puzzle that made me feel whole again and getting my confidence back. I cried tears of pure joy! If you are thinking of having 3D Nipple Restoration, I highly recommend April. She was very professional, she put me at total ease, and is extremely talented. My friends and family are amazed at how real they look! It was clear to see how much she genuinely cares about her clients and the passion she has for helping breast cancer survivors. I am so grateful to her and I feel incredibly blessed.”
What is Areola Tattooing?
Areola Tattooing is the implantation of pigment into the dermal layer of the skin in the areola area. The result is the 3-D illusion of an areola and nipple. The process is painless and completed by a registered nurse specializing in areola reconstruction.
Forever Yours ensures your privacy by providing a private room for areola tattoos and consultations.
What is Areola Tattooing?
This is the implantation of pigment into the dermal layer of the skin in the areola area. The result is the 3-D illusion of an areola and nipple.
Is the tattoo painful?
Most patients who had breast reconstruction after breast cancer have little to no sensation of feeling. Numbing cream is used to further minimize any discomfort during the procedure.
Is the tattoo permanent?
Slight color fading will occur as the tattoo heals. After that time, the areola tattoos are permanent and should last a lifetime.
What type of pigments are used?
Our artist is a registered nurse with a vast amount of knowledge, so she uses pure organic pigments for all areola tattooing procedures.
Can I proceed to normal activities afterwards?
There is no down-time with this procedure, so you shall be able to immediately resume your normal activities. There are, however, a few restrictions such as no vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours and no soaking in the bathtub, jacuzzi, or swimming pool for 7 days afterwards.
Will the needle puncture my implant?
No, the needle only goes into the dermis which is one of the layers of skin.
Can I improve the scarring on my breast?
Depending on what your scars look like, they may be camoflaged with a process that works best for those scars in which the scar is lighter than the surrounding skin.
How long does the procedure take?
Generally, the procedure takes 2 to 4 hours to complete.
How do I get started?
Submit a booking request, and we will contact you for a consultation.
Do I need physician approval for the 3D areolas?
Yes, if your surgical reconstruction was less than a year ago, you will need written approval from your breast reconstruction physician. No, if your surgery was more than a year ago, you do not need written approval from a physician.
How is privacy guaranteed for 3D areolas?
Forever Yours offers a private room during 3D areola procedures with only the client and the artist in the room.
What to Expect
Pre-Procedure
If you have an opportunity to think ahead before your mastectomy, you may wish to do the following:
- Take “before” pictures
- Think about your areola color and write it down
- Note the size of your breast and areola
Appointment Day
On the day of your tattoo, wear a comfortable bra and bring any photos of your breast(s) prior to surgery, if you have them. This is not a requirement.
Is the tattooing painful?
No. 98% of the time, there is no pain in the reconstructed breast. Numbing cream is used to further minimize any discomfort during the procedure.
How long is the procedure?
Generally, the procedure takes 2 to 4 hours to complete.
Will I need another appointment?
This process is usually completed in one appointment. However, in some cases, you may require an additional touch up, depending on your individual healing process. If a follow-up is necessary, you should schedule to return in 4-6 weeks.
How will the color choice and size of my areola be determined?
When you meet April DeMarco, RN, your expert medical tattoo artist, she will work with you to determine the color and size by first drawing impermanently on the area. Once the color and size are agreed upon, the artist will create dimension with color and shading, giving you a realistic nipple and areola. When the procedure is finished, you will be amazed with the results!
Aftercare?
The area will be covered with dressings, and you will be given aftercare instructions specific to your tattoo.