Areola Tattooing

After breast reconstruction, areola tattooing can be performed to recreate and match the natural color of the areola. This is an important procedure for women who have lost one or both nipples after cancer or mastectomy. Like breast reconstruction, the procedure can help women regain a sense of femininity.

During your consultation at Dr. Chen’s office, you can explain your goals for nipple-areolar tattooing. She may request that you bring photos that show the previos appearance of the nipple. During this consultation, Dr. Chen and our makeup tattooist will explain how areolar tattooing works and how to care for your skin after the procedure.

The process is similar to a traditional tattoo. A small handpiece is placed on the surface of your skin, which holds the pigment. As it passes over your skin, the tattooist will rapidly inject small amounts of micropigment beneath the surface.

After the procedure, a surgical dressing will cover the tattoo site. You will experience some redness and minor swelling near the treated area. The pigment may also appear darker than you anticipated, but it should fade over time.