AREOLA & Nipple TATTOO

We create the most realistic 3-D areola and nipple to complete the breast. Results are permanent.

THE FINAL STEP IN A LONG JOURNEY OF BREAST RECONSTRUCTION.

. Look at yourself and feel confident, feminine, whole .

AREOLA & NIPPLE TATTOO

We create realistic areola and nipples using a tattoo technique. A 3-D effect is created, with color and shadow. Shape and color are customized to the individual, pigments mixed during the treatment.

Results of this procedure are permanent, although some fading can occur depending on lightness of pigment used and client’s lifestyle— periodic touch-ups may be required to keep the 3-D effect clearly visible.

All treatments are done at our NYC Flatiron location (private room) by trained therapists. Our areola & nipple specialists Michelle Wu & May Lin have an exceptional eye for beauty — shape, balance, color— that are crucial in the creation of realistic results.

The procedure is completed in one treatment that takes two hours.

BEFORE / AFTER PHOTOS:

THE PROCEDURE

We start with a consultation, and discuss your vision for what you desire your areola & nipple to look like. Pre-operative photos can be used as reference, if you wish to match with what you had. We draw on the areola to see how it relates to the entire breast in terms of size and location. We also decide on color, and mix a custom blend that matches your skin tone.

For unilateral clients (those who have surgery on one breast), we match perfectly what already exists. We match areola & nipple shape and color to your existing breast.

The procedure itself takes about 30 minutes to an hour. We use a handheld tool to apply the pigment into the skin (most clients have little to no sensation in the treatment area so numbing is not used), using a shading technique that creates realistic 3-D results. All needles are sterilized and single-use.

AFTER-CARE

A transparent dressing will be applied over your new nipple and areola (please make sure you wear a bra or tight-fitting camisole to keep it in place immediately after treatment), which must be kept on for three days. We will supply you with a Healing Cream to apply three days after treatment, for one week.

Total healing times vary but can take up to two weeks. Detailed After-Care instructions are at the bottom of this page.

COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:

What results can I expect?

We will create a realistic, 3D tattoo that looks like a nipple and areola.

How long do results last?

Results of this procedure are permanent, although some fading can occur depending on lightness of pigment used and client’s lifestyle— periodic touch-ups may be required to keep the 3-D effect clearly visible. .

How many treatments are necessary?

The entire procedure is done in a single two-hour session. In certain situations we ask clients to return for a Check-Up within four weeks to ensure color retention.

How soon after breast reconstruction surgery can I do the treatment?

Please wait at least three months after your breast or nipple reconstruction surgery before coming in for an appointment with us.

I had nipple reconstruction, can I still do the treatment?

Yes. However in some situations the reconstructed nipple resists taking pigment. In these scenarios multiple visits may be necessary.

Is it painful?

Most clients do not feel any pain. Each case however is different and there may be minimal sensation.

What are the risks?

To minimize risks please follow after-care closely. Risks include infection, allergic reaction, granulomas, and keloid formation. If you have any specific circumstances, we encourage you to check in with your doctor.

What is the downtime?

There is no downtime and your normal schedule should not be affected. However you should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours. We have also included the detailed aftercare at the bottom of this page.

How much is the treatment?

Please visit our “Price List” section for details.

Will I have privacy?

Yes. Treatment is done in a private room separate from our salon floor.

Is this covered by health insurance?

Many insurance companies should cover this expense. Since we are not a health care provider, we do not accept health insurance and we will provide documentation to claim reimbursement. We cannot assure that your health care provider will pay for the treatment, but we will help in any way that we can.

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act: Passed in October 1998 by the US Congress. “The act requires group health plans and health insurers that provide medical benefits covering mastectomy to also cover the cost of breast reconstructive surgery for women who have undergone mastectomy. Coverage must also include all stages of reconstructive surgery of the diseased breast, procedure to restore and achieve symmetry on the opposite breast, and the cost of prostheses and complications of mastectomy”

Do you do corrections to existing nipple & areola tattoos?

Yes, however the results depend on what the existing work looks like. In these situations we recommend coming in for a consultation first before booking the treatment.

Can I bring guests with me to the treatment?

Yes, however we request that they wait outside the treatment room during the procedure.

Why is the cost for bilateral and unilateral clients the same?

Unilateral clients require more time to ensure that the results match the existing nipple and areola.

There is hair on my breast, should I remove it before treatment?

Leaving hair untouched will not affect the procedure. However if you choose to remove the hair (waxing, tweezing, or laser hair removal), please do so at least 48 hours before treatment.

Will the needle puncture my implant?

No, the needle only goes into the dermis, which is not deep enough to risk puncturing an implant.

Is it safe to have an MRI?

Yes. The iron or metals in pigments are so microscopic in size that it is considered safe.

DETAILED AFTERCARE:

After Procedure:

• Please follow our AfterCare instructions below on use of Tegaderm and application of Healing Cream

• Medications: Take over-the-counter medication for any discomfort. If you have a history of cellulitis, please take antibiotic tablets as directed.

• Do not peel or scratch off any flaking in tattooed area. No vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours as it may cause swelling.

Aftercare:

• TEGADERM, is a sterile, breathable, waterproof, germ-proof barrier to protect your new tattoo. Leave the Tegaderm on for THREE DAYS— do not lift it, change it, or remove it.

• The Tegaderm will protect your tattoo from infection, abrasion, irritation, and contamination while it is going through the most important part of its healing. It will also protect your clothes, sheets, and others from coming in contact with the excess ink, blood, and fluid that are the normal by-products of healing a tattoo.

• You can perform your usual activities (including exercise) while the tattoo is covered with Tegaderm. Be sure not to bump or rub your new tattoo excessively, or do anything that will scrape or peel the covering off.

• Showering will not affect Tegaderm; it is reasonably waterproof. You can shower normally while healing. However, do not bathe or swim until your tattoo is fully healed.

• After 3 days, remove the Tegaderm by carefully peeling it off your skin. Do not quickly tear it off, as this can cause skin irritation. The easiest way to soften the adhesive is to stand in a hot shower for several minutes and remove the covering in the shower.

• After removing the covering, rinse the tattoo thoroughly with warm water and wash, then rinse several times using antibacterial soap and warm water. Gently work any excess material off the surface of your skin using the palm of your hand. Do not use any washcloths, sponges, or brushes.

• After patting your tattoo with a clean towel, the skin should be shiny and dry. For the next SEVEN TO TEN DAYS, apply a thin layer of EVERTRUE HEALING CREAM when it feels tight, dry, or itchy. Otherwise, let it air out and heal naturally. You might notice a few layers of flaky skin peeling, this is completely normal.