Who is it suitable for?

Patients who have undergone breast reconstruction surgery following a diagnosis of breast cancer or the discovery of a gene mutation often opt for nipple and areola micropigmentation.
Breast reconstruction surgery focuses on the rebuilding of the breast. The majority of the time, this means there will be no nipple, unless you have a nipple-sparing mastectomy.

This treatment is often the final stage of a patient’s breast journey and can feel like the ‘finishing touch’ to restore confidence and uplift personal wellbeing.

The size, shape and colour are taken into careful consideration to mimic the look of a natural areola.

How long does it take?

The procedure usually requires two appointments, four to six weeks apart. The first appointment starts with a consultation, outlining what the patient wishes to achieve. The colour, shape and placement will also be discussed.

The McIndoe Centre carries out single and bilateral areola tattoos. Each areola tattoo takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes, which includes mapping, colour matching and pigmentation. If necessary a numbing cream may be needed prior to the procedure.

What to expect after the treatment

The tattooed area will go through the healing process, which includes:

• Heal - the body’s natural defence will create fine scabs to protect the area whilst healing.
• Peel - after a few days, the scabs will fall away.
• Fade - after your appointment, the colour may appear darker, but within a few days after healing, you will see a lighter colour.

A second visit usually includes a colour boost and any necessary adjustments and detailing. Age, skin type, medication and lifestyle can all affect the pigment, so further colour boosting over the years can be carried out to maintain the desired look.