wHAT ARE 3D AREOLA TATTOOS?

Exactly what you think! Extremely realistic areola/nipple tattoos. This 3D process can be performed either unilaterally or bilaterally. My medical tattoo instructor Shannon Housley of the Housley Institute, describes this technique as the “illusion of protrusion.”

WHAT TO EXPECT?

The first step of your areola tattoo is the consultation. Once you complete the general medical history form and the tattoo consent form, we’ll discuss your expectations and your reconstruction history. I’ll take as much time as needed to answer all of your questions.

Before photos are required. Your face will not be included, but photos of your areola restoration are mandatory for your record. Once we have before pictures completed, we move on to the design part, where we select the size, placement, and color of your nipple tattoo.

The next step in the appointment is the actual tattooing. Each areola is completed in approximately 40 minutes. If you have any discomfort, we simply apply a topical anesthetic and you will be more comfortable after that.

Following the tattooing phase, we’ll take “after” photos and then we apply the Tegaderm bandage which you’ll keep on for 3 days.  If you’ve previously been reactive to Tegaderm, we can apply a Telfa pad instead.

We’ll review all aftercare instructions with you and answer any remaining questions about healing.

dOES IT HURT?

While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, most patients report little to no pain with areola repigmentation. Depending on the type of breast reconstruction you had, there usually is decreased sensation of the skin — especially with flap (ie: DIEP/Latissimus) reconstructions. After your areola tattoo, you might experience discomfort that is comparable to a minor sunburn for a few days. During the nipple tattoo, if you experience discomfort, we can apply a topical lidocaine anesthetic.

Same goes for Cosmetic Tattoos. I’ve had clients who felt little to no discomfort, and clients who request more frequent breaks. My goal is to make you feel as comfortable as possible so you can leave feeling confident, strong and stunning.

*A topical numbing anesthetic can be used in all services.

wHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE FOR MY SERVICE?

Do not use recreational drugs or alcohol for 48 hrs prior to nipple tattooing.
Nicotine constricts your vascular system and will impede healing. We *highly suggest* that you abstain from smoking at least 2 weeks before and after your session.

You will be sent home in a Tegaderm bandage so your tattoo will be protected. You will be most comfortable if you wear a loose-fitting top. You are free to wear a bra if you are more comfortable in one than without.

Do not take aspirin or NSAID at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. Tylenol is OK, as it does not thin the blood. However, DO NOT STOP regularly prescribed blood thinning medications from your physician, (aspirin or prescriptions). The tattoo is a superficial procedure, not an invasive surgery.

You must wait at least 6 weeks after ceasing chemotherapy. If it’s any sooner than 6 weeks, you must have written consent from your physician prior to your appointment.
Skin must be completely free of tinted or self-tanning lotions. We suggest to stop using self-tanning lotions at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.