Testimonials

Areola Restorative Tattooing is for people who no longer have a natural nipple. (Commonly post-mastectomy or other chest surgeries.) A 3D appearance nipple tattoo is created through artistic techniques and shading. These tattoos are generally for those who have undergone a mastectomy and can be used instead of nipple protrusion or reconstructive surgery, or to add colouring and final touches to nipple protrusions. Nipple Pigmentation is customized tattooing of the natural nipple to enhance or provide more symmetry. Some uses for this service are to blend scarring around the areola, darken the colouring, lighten the colouring (in certain cases), enlarge and define the nipples and the surrounding areola, so they appear more prominent or symmetrical.

– Areola tattoos are ideal for any gender has undergone a mastectomy these can be done whether you’ve had reconstruction or not and whether you’ve opted for nipple protrusion surgery.

– After chest/top surgery for trans men and women whether you’ve opted for nipple grafts or want to enlarge the shape/alter the pigmentation of your natural nipples.

– You are looking to restore the natural look of your nipples. This is for those who have irregular-shapes or edges of the nipple, tattooed for a more natural (or enhanced) appearance.

– After birth when the edges are uneven and need to be softened/adjusted, for enlarging the areola after a breast enlargement to enhance proportion and more!

– Changing the shape of your areola (hearts are a fun option!).

Prior to the actual tattooing part, there is a built-in consultation where you let us know what you are wanting. There are pictures to review for inspiration and Candice has recommendations through reviewing your natural colouring and shape. No tattooing is done without you agreeing on the positioning, style, size and colouring of your nipple.

A consultation of some type is required prior to booking this service. We offer email, phone and in-person consultations free of charge. We like to ask questions to ensure that your skin is ready to be tattooed and that you understand the service in advance. Some people only need to email a photo in advance to be able to book. Many are able to answer some questions by phone prior and some may be asked to come in to discuss in person. Everything is customized to you! Start by sending an email to see what we recommend for your service.

Post- mastectomy clientele usually report little to no sensation or pain, dependant on the amount of sensation they feel in the area generally, as there can be decreased overall sensation. The tattoo sensation varies from person to person, but we also use topical anesthetic which numbs the area.

Depending on which surgery you’ve had will depend on the amount of time you should wait. This is why the consultation process is important, because all of our bodies are different. As a precaution, you may ask your surgeon what their recommendation is and also reach out for a consultation.

The procedure can take between approximately three hours, depending on which service you are getting.

Yes. Once the breast mound has been tattooed, the appearance of residual scarring is minimized. You may also opt to camouflage the scar as this is another service we provide.

Yes, although there are occasions when the pigment does not take well on the reconstructed nipple itself. The reconstructed nipple as well as the area around it can still be tattooed, but follow up visits may be needed to ensure adequate pigment retention in that area.

Healing times can vary – The initial healing can take approximately 2 weeks. Your aftercare is to be adhered to when there is still any scabbing protecting the tattoo. The fully healed time can be between 10-12 weeks. This is when the colour will have stabilized and the skin has had a chance to regenerate. Everyone is different and it depends on the type of service and your individual skin and reaction to the tattoo. After the tattoo has fully settled, another session can be performed.

While we want your tattoo to last a lifetime, we are tattooing more conservatively to create a natural appearance and it will not be as bold as a standard tattoo. Depending on your service, it may take more than one session to acheive the desired appearance. Some fading may occur down the road after many years, and at some point, you may elect to have your color refreshed.

People who undergo mastectomies or other breast surgeries experience different emotions- we encourage you to ask questions, look at portfolios and look at this appointment as an exciting step in your healing. This is why it is recommended to wait anywhere from 6 months to 1 year after your last surgery so your skin has a chance to heal. Consultations are free and encouraged! Please reach out to meet me and have your skin and scars checked to see when your ideal timeframe for you to be tattooed can be determined.