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WHAT IS AN AREOLA TATTOO?
Areola tattoos are exactly what they sound like: semi-permanent pigment tattooed on the breast to replicate the appearance of a nipple and the surrounding, often slightly more pigmented skin known as the areola. While areola reconstruction tattoos can be simply described as artfully placed ink, the results are shockingly realistic and pack an incredible amount of power.
After a mastectomy and/or breast reconstruction surgery, which typically occurs in cases of breast cancer or trauma to the breast, many people are left without a nipple or areola. Others are often left with their nipples intact but may have scars or misshapen areolas as a result of surgery.
THIS IS WHERE AREOLA TATTOOING COMES IN.
For those who would like to complete their reconstruction by restoring the naturalthe appearance of their nipple-areola complex, there is a non-invasive, non-surgical option.The technique can be used to create a completely new nipple, or to enhance what's there by evening out the shape, size, and colour of the areola.
ON THE DAY OF THE PROCEDURE:
Before you get your procedure done, make sure you have had a good breakfast or lunch. It's important for you to be comfortable and relaxed. In order to be comfortable, it is advised for you to wear a loose sports bra and a 2piece outfit, so you can easily take your top off to get the tattoo. You might be provided with a disposable robe in the salon, but you might be more comfortable with your jeans or slacks on to keep you warm. Although there usually is no pain, you will be provided with a topical anesthetic, if you feel that that is necessary. If you have a list of prescription medicines, please be ready to provide the list for your consent paperwork. After the procedure, your technician will provide you with your post-procedure care and a few non-stick gauze pads to get started.
HEALING PROCESS:
You should wait at least 8 weeks for the skin to recover from the original procedure. If you wish, you can follow up and do a little perfecting: that is usually not charged, but depends on the place you are getting this procedure done.
DO AREOLA TATTOOS HURT?
As with all tattoos, it really depends on your pain tolerance. Due to the typical sensitivity of the area, some say areola tattooing is more painful than other areas of the body. However, many women who have undergone a mastectomy experience loss of feeling in the area and as a result, report little sensation during the process. In this case, you may feel some pressure, tingling, and/or vibration as the needles transfer pigment into the skin.
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