For many people, this helps their confidence flourish in new ways as they reclaim their bodies.
Not everyone goes with this playful approach to mastectomy tattoos, though.
The procedure is nearly painless, and many insurance companies even cover this form ofmastectomy tattoosfor breast cancer patients.
Illustration by Channing Smith
So, allowAllureto make things a bit easier for you.
These tattoos are designed on or around the area where a mastectomy was performed.
They can either resemble nipples and areolas or become a form of body art.
Beau Institute
They often facilitate the same inks, colors, and shading techniques.
Plus, typical tattoos aren’t usually done over scars, which can make the skin particularly delicate.
You’re never working with the same scar pattern or just perfectly smooth skin.
It’s not anything like working on regular skin for the most part," tattoo artistVinnie Myersexplains.
You don’t want to have any additional problems with all the things you’ve already been through.
As for the pain level, you’ll mostly feel the vibration of the tattoo gun, Myers says.
What types of post-mastectomy tattoos you could get?
3D nipple tattoosare anatomically correct tattoos of nipples created in the place of nipple grafts after breast reconstruction surgery.
Nipple grafts often lack color and details, Rizzuto says.
Instead of mimicking the rounded shape of nipples, a whole new shape is an option.
Nipples and the lack of them may not be the issue for some.
Scars, instead, are more of a concern.
How long after getting a mastectomy can you get tattooed?
But it’s important for the body to fully heal from the mastectomy.
Are there any risks?
Also, not everyone is a candidate for mastectomy tattoos.
How much do mastectomy tattoos cost?
How do you find a good artist to do your mastectomy tattoo?
Taking their training and certifications into account is also important.
verify they have at least five years of experience.
“Survivors should ask their tattoo provider about their tattoo training,” Rizzuto says.
“Did they have a tattoo apprenticeship?
Did they do online-only training?”
Consultations are also a must, Rizzuto adds.
Where can I get a mastectomy tattoo near me?
Keep scrolling to discover a great option in your state.
He’s been sharpening his 3D, 4D repigmentation, and decorative tattooing skills for about 20 years now.
We especially love this black widow look he created.
“My clients and I collaborate on the design together to create unique coverings just for them.”
She also has a studio in Wayne, NJ.
Burns has even traveled as far as Taiwan to train other tattoo artists in 3D post-mastectomy tattooing.
Her technique is especially gentle as she has over 20 years of experience doing acupuncture.
She’s also trainedin reikito help make the process as healing as possible.
Cancilla also regularly travels toCarle Plastic Surgery Centerin Champagne, IL.
If you prefer something more uniquely you, Lovely Monkey can also adorn your chest with vibrant decorative tattoos.
She even travels around the country to teach others.
She also trains up-and-coming mastectomy tattooists.
She also does scar camouflaging.
Every year, it holds what they call a Day of Hope anddonates free tattoosto breast cancer survivors.
Free yoga classes and makeup utility is also part of the event.
Expenses aside, the studio offers the works, including heart areolas and scar camouflaging.
(And Sauler’s been in the tattoo industry, in general, for even longer.)
Sauler also travels to New York City and New Jersey.
Dreaming of having heart-shaped areolas?
Allow owner Alexandra Hardee to do the honors.
She’s even gone viralon TikTokfor her 3D work.
At her private studio in Richmond, Black performs 3D and decorative tattooing.
She’ll ensure you have the most gorgeous non-traditional mastectomy tattoo your heart desires.
Beau Institute
