Nipple Tattooing (3D Areola Restoration) in Doylestown, PA

Many breast cancer survivors can often feel self-conscious about the appearance of their breasts after undergoing a mastectomy where it may be necessary to remove the tissue of the nipple or areola. For this reason, many patients opt to follow up on their procedure with a breast reconstruction procedure, usually including nipple tattooing. Also known as 3D areola reconstruction, this procedure is designed to improve the aesthetics of the nipples and areolas by adding natural tone, pigment, and authentic shadows to the underlying skin. Tamburrino Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Doylestown, PA is proud to offer this corrective procedure for patients who may have lost their nipple tissue during the process of a mastectomy. Dr. Joseph F. Tamburrino is highly experienced in performing nipple tattooing, allowing our patients to put their mind at ease in his capable hands.

Nipple tattooing at Tamburrino Plastic Surgery & Med Spa offers a unique, personal restoration for individuals seeking to regain a sense of wholeness post-mastectomy. This procedure, performed with gentle care, uses advanced techniques to recreate a natural-looking nipple and areola. Benefits of this procedure in Doylestown, PA include:

• Aesthetic Restoration: Achieves a natural, symmetrical appearance.
• Confidence Boost: Helps restore body image, emotional health, and self-esteem.
• Non-Invasive: A simple, safe procedure with minimal discomfort.
• Customization: Tailored to match your skin tone and preferences.

Traditionally, men and women who choose to undergo this procedure have lost one or both nipples due to a breast cancer-related mastectomy. Your body's ability to heal from the mastectomy will determine how long you must wait until we can perform the 3D areola restoration. However, in most cases, we recommend patients wait at least three months. Many of our patients find this procedure to be preferable to nipple reconstruction surgery due to its less invasive nature and nonexistent recovery time.

The procedure itself will be performed in one of our private treatment rooms at Tamburrino Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. The process is much the same as any normal tattoo, though with the nipple being a highly sensitive area, we can offer anesthetic to make the patient experience more comfortable. We can use various techniques in order to use 3D shading to create the illusion of a nipple, fill in a reconstructed nipple/areola with realistic flesh tones, or perform touch-ups on patients who have already undergone the procedure but feel that the tattoo has faded over time. In general, nipple tattooing is a fast procedure that usually only lasts around 15 minutes per nipple.

Aftercare for nipple tattooing is generally not any different from a traditional tattoo anywhere else on your body. At the conclusion of the procedure, the treatment area will be sterilized and covered in order to keep it protected. Before you leave, our staff will walk you through how to keep the area clean and free of infection in the days and weeks to come. It is entirely expected for the tattoo to emit small amounts of blood and/or ink in the days following the procedure. For this reason, we ask that patients use and consistently replace gauze pads on the affected area. This will eventually scab, and it is important for patients to avoid picking or prodding in order to ensure the area heals properly. Once the scab falls off naturally, the final results of the procedure should be noticeable. In some cases, patients may require multiple sessions until they've reached their desired nipple color.

Don't let a mastectomy stop you from feeling great about your body. Nipple tattooing is a quick and easy way to enhance the breasts after the loss of the nipples and/or areola. If you've been considering this procedure, Dr. Tamburrino would love to meet with you to discuss the specific details of your body. Schedule a consultation at Tamburrino Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Doylestown, PA today.

How long after mastectomy do I have to wait to get nipple tattooing?
It is generally recommended to wait at least three months after a mastectomy before considering nipple tattooing. This waiting period allows for adequate healing of the surgical site and ensures a stable and well-settled foundation for the tattooing procedure. It also gives you time to discuss the timing of nipple tattooing with your healthcare provider, cosmetic provider, and other medical care team members to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Is nipple tattooing after mastectomy permanent?
Nipple tattooing after mastectomy is considered a permanent cosmetic procedure. However, it's important to understand that over time, the color of the tattoo may fade slightly. The longevity of the tattoo can vary depending on factors like skin type, sun exposure, and lifestyle. While the tattoo may not remain as vibrant as it was initially, it can last for many years. Some individuals may choose to have touch-up sessions as needed to maintain the desired appearance.

Can men get nipple tattooing?
Yes, nipple tattooing is not limited to any specific gender. Both men and women who have undergone mastectomy procedures or have other cosmetic or medical reasons may choose to have nipple tattooing. The goal of nipple tattooing is to create a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, regardless of gender. If you are considering nipple tattooing as a part of your post-mastectomy or cosmetic journey, ywe are happy to discuss your options and preferences in greater detail.