Areola Reconstruction Services in Philly
In the breast reconstruction process, areola and nipple reconstruction are typically the final step. This treatment is a form of micropigmentation intended to give clients the appearance of a round and healthy nipple and areola to compliment reconstructed breast tissue. This is a minimally invasive procedure, similar to other cosmetic tattooing treatments.
Nipple Tattoo After Breast Reconstruction
Cosmetic areola reconstruction is done in a sterile environment using organic micro pigments in hues that compliment your skin tones. You’ll be left with a full, healthy looking areola that is indistinguishable from a completely natural one. Boost the confidence you have for your beautiful breasts by enhancing them after reconstructive surgery.
Nipple tattooing helps restore symmetry and balance to the breasts, enhancing the overall appearance of breast reconstruction results. Our artists work closely with each client to tailor the size, shape, and color of the nipple and areola to match their desired outcome and skin tone. Getting a nipple tattoo is minimally invasive and a huge confidence boost.
Our Process:
Consultation: Prior to the procedure, you will have a thorough consultation with one of our tattoo artists to discuss your goals, preferences, and any questions or concerns you may have.
Custom Design: They will work with you to create a customized design that matches your desired aesthetic and complements your breasts.
Tattooing Process: Using micro-pigments and precise techniques, the artist will carefully apply the pigment to the breast area, gradually building up layers to achieve a natural-looking result.
Follow-Up: After the initial session, you may require follow-up appointments for touch-ups or adjustments to ensure optimal results.
Preparation
You must stop taking any blood thinners 72 hours before the appointment. The more you bleed, the less the ink will penetrate the skin.
Discontinue vitamin E and fish oil the week of your appointment.
No caffeine or alcohol before your session.
Cannot currently be taking Accutane. (at least a year without use)
It is recommended that you do not take any sun vacations for at least a week before or after for best results.
Do not use a tanning bed for 30 days before the procedure.
You cannot exercise the day of the appointment, and then from 7-10 days after.
Bring a valid ID
Moisturizing the area 3 times a day, for 1 to 2 weeks, prior to our first appointment is encouraged.
Be mindful not to get sunburn or extreme sun exposure in the weeks leading up to your appointments. Sun Burned or UV-tanned skinned can not be worked on.
Aftercare
Leave areolas bandaged for 2 to 3 hours. Once home wash with warm water, Do Not Scrub! Do not wash with soap at this time.
For the next 3 days wash with warm water only to prevent scabbing. Your body at this time will be pushing out what it doesn't need from the tattooed area as it heals. If not washed off, it can dry and scab up, causing discomfort, and possibly pulling the pigment. Peeling, on the other hand, is normal. In fact, it is expected, since a new layer of skin will form days after the skin is tattooed.
Apply a thin layer of Aquaphor on the freshly tattooed area. A small amount of these products should be applied once in the morning, and again at night. ( or after each time the area is washed)
For the next 10 days, make sure any bra or shirt that touches the area is clean, and not skin-tight! If able to, wearing loose garments, or no bra is highly recommended. We want to prevent friction in the healing area, especially for the first week. Basically, let that skin breathe!
Around day 4 you may start using a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil to wash. Again, do not soak the area! Just wash and rinse.
No lotions and soaps with perfume should touch the area for 10 days.
Once the area begins to peel, DO NOT PICK! this will possibly pull the pigment and cause scarring.
Avoid pools, hot tubs, and bathtubs, basically submerging the healing tattoo in any type of body of water for 10 days.
The less you touch it, the better it will heal.
The pigment used is a cosmetic pigment, it will be its darkest color for the first 3 days. Once healed, the color is normally 30 to 40 percent lighter. A follow-up appointment can always darken the area.
For Breast Cancer Survivors, the course of treatments you have undergone may affect the healing. It’s not uncommon for it takes several treatments to achieve desired results.
Don’t go tanning with healing areolas.
Once healed, those who use UV tanning beds should always have the areolas covered up and a layer of SPF for protection. UV exposure will fade the areolas! Please consider spray tanning as a healthier alternative.
It is not uncommon to need a minor touch-up every few years, depending on how your skin holds the pigment, or what colors were used. Some may simply fade faster than others. This can always be corrected in a minor touch-up appointment.
Schedule Your Consultation
Our artists are highly educated in skin anatomy, color theory, adhering to hygiene protocols, and more. All of these factors are vital in creating a natural-looking nipple. On top of that, we’re known for educating our clients on our processes and the services they are receiving. Our artists provide personalized care & attention every step of the way.
If you’ve just undergone a breast reconstruction or reduction and are considering areola tattoos, give us a call! We’re happy to answer any of your questions and get your consultation booked.