What is a nipple and areola tattoo?
A nipple and areola tattoo is a real, permanent tattoo of a nipple and areola on your breast. The tattoo will help recreate your nipple and areola and complete your breast reconstruction.

What is the difference between a nipple reconstruction tattoo and a 3D tattoo?
A nipple reconstruction is a procedure to rebuild and raise your nipple. If you have this procedure, skin and tissue from the breast are used to form a new, raised nipple. Later on, the reconstructed nipple is tattooed with color and an areola is tattooed around it. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or read Nipple Reconstruction.

If you don’t have a nipple reconstruction procedure, you can get a 3D tattoo. A 3D tattoo adds color and shading to the breast to make the nipple look like it’s raised. The tattooed nipple is flat to the touch, like a normal tattoo, but looks like a natural nipple.

When should I get my nipple and areola tattoo?
A nipple and areola tattoo can be done after breast and nipple reconstruction surgery to treat breast cancer. It can also be done after a preventive mastectomy.

You’ll need to wait at least 3 months after your final breast reconstruction procedure to get your tattoo. This will give your skin time to heal.