Areola Tattooing
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1. Overview
Tattooing or Micropigmentation is a simple, fast procedure done in our office as the finishing touch in a patient's breast reconstruction or as a camouflage for patients post breast reduction or augmentation. It is usually done 3 months post nipple reconstruction for breast reconstruction patients or 1 year post reductions/augmentations. Areola tattooing involves implanting hypoallergenic pigments (color) into the very top layers of your skin with a tattoo gun or pen.
Depending on unilateral or bilateral, the tattooing process can take 45 to 90 minutes. We use topical anesthetic before each procedure, and use more anesthetic throughout to minimize pain for each client. Colours are chosen based on your pre-mastectomy pictures or by matching your native areola. If pre-mastectomy photos are not available, we can work together to find a colour that works for you and suits your skin tone.
Patients must be a minimum of 3 months post nipple reconstruction or 1 year post reductions/augmentations. You should avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and large doses of vitamin E for at least 48 hours before the procedure. These can increase your risk of bleeding. If you have had any infections during your breast reconstruction process, please let us know.
2. Preoperative Considerations
3. Postoperative Considerations
Avoid working out or any exercise for the first 3 days. Avoid swimming, soaking and steam baths for the first 2 weeks. Avoid tanning beds or sun exposure for the first 2 weeks.