What is a 3D tattoo?
A 3D tattoo uses pigments to replicate the areola on a reconstructed breast. It uses light and dark pigments to create a 3D illusion and make it appear that the Patient has an areola and nipple after they have been removed during surgery. The pigments are color-matched to each patient, and the goal is to restore the natural appearance of the breast.
3D tattoos are not only for women with a recent cancer journey. The procedure also is available for patients who have had mastectomy surgeries years ― or even decades ― ago when 3D tattooing wasn't available. As well as Patients who have had top surgery or have asymmetrical nipples.
Are 3D tattoos painful?
No, unlike a traditional tattoo, 3D tattooing is a comfortable, nearly pain-free procedure for the patient because the breasts are numb after a mastectomy. Aftercare and recovery is similar to a traditional tattoo with light coverage for a few days, cleansing with antibacterial soap and applying fragrance-free, gentle lotion until healed.
How many sessions are required?
For most Patients, the procedure is completed in the clinic over the course of two to three visits. The initial visit takes up to two hours. That's when the patient works with the provider to select pigments and determine the position of the areolas. Then the tattooing is performed. The second visit is six to eight weeks later for pigment touch-up and evaluation if a third sesson is needed.
What are the benefits of 3D tattoos?
Some patients have said that their breasts appear incomplete without nipples or areolas, similar to a face without a nose. Tattooed areolas and nipples help patients focus less on what is missing and eliminate the constant visual reminder of their cancer journeys.
Many patients also have reported that it improves intimacy with their partners because it helps partners feel more comfortable with their new breasts. Also, it distracts away from any scarring and leads the eye to a new focal point rather than just the scars across the breasts.
see inkless scar removal or camouflage for removal of additional scaring on the breasts.
How soon after reconstruction can I get a 3D tattoo?
It's important that a Patient has completed all of their reconstruction surgeries and cancer treatments before getting a 3D tattoo. We usually wait about three months after completion of reconstruction to make sure that all incisions have healed properly, and allow time for the new breast tissue or implants to settle into their natural positions.
Some people get a traditional tattoo to mark a milestone or celebrate a moment in their lives. A 3D nipple and areola tattoo is no different. For many patients, a 3D tattoo is the final step in their cancer journeys. It's like the cherry on top of the sundae and a celebration that they have reached the end of their cancer journey.
For Clients with NO previous work:
unilateral- (first session) $ 325
(touch up session 6- 8 weeks ) $225
bilateral- (first session)$ 750
(touch up session 6- 8 weeks ) $650
For Clients with previous work:
please note this is considered a color correction a there will be old pigment that must be corrected before the 3d effect can be achieved no everyone will be a good candidate.
some clients may require a removal before a color correction is performed.
unilateral- (first session) $ 425
(touch up session 6- 8 weeks ) $325
bilateral- (first session)$ 850
(touch up session 6- 8 weeks ) $750