3D Nipple Tattooing following Breast Reconstruction

 

In recent years there has come about a “marriage” of sorts between the work of plastic surgeons and tattoo artists in breast reconstruction. At this time most mastectomies involve removal of the nipple areola complex along with the breast.

Most women undergoing nipple reconstruction have a reconstructed nipple created from skin on the breast mound followed by tattooing of pigment, completed by the plastic surgeon or his nurse to add color to the nipple and create the circular areola.

Some women may choose to have the nipple and areola created entirely by tattoo. In this case the nipple itself is flat with no projection, but on the forward view the shading in the tattoo makes it appear three-dimensional. In such cases, patients may choose to have 3-D nipple tattooing done.

Some tattoo artists specialize in this type of work. In fact, one patient discovered Baltimore, Maryland-based tattoo artist Vinnie Myers, known as “Little Vinnie”. Vinnie currently only does nipple areola tattooing and has a 3-month wait for an appointment, and is not covered by insurance, however our patient reported being very happy with the experience.

Please note, we do not have any financial connection or ties to any 3D tattoo artists. If you are considering 3D nipple tattooing, there may be other equally talented tattoo artists, but please do your research to make sure you will be happy with the results.

In the photo, you will see a patient who had breast reconstruction with tissue expanders replaced by implants followed by 3D nipple tattooing.

*Results may vary and are not guaranteed*