How to Prepare for a Tattooing Session After Breast Cancer
Ready to take a big step in your breast cancer recovery by getting a tattoo?
After a mastectomy, 3-D nipple tattoos are often used in lieu of nipple reconstruction surgery as a very realistic but less invasive alternative. The practitioner uses an oscillating tattoo needle coated with pigment, which is then inserted into the skin to create the appearance of a nipple.
In addition to or instead of nipple tattooing, some people will choose to use tattoo art to cover the area where their nipples and areola were and/or to cover scars from surgery.
Whether or not you’ve been tattooed before, the process for nipple or scar camouflage tattoos may be different from what you’re used to. Here’s what to expect and how you can prepare for your tattoo.
Decide on the Design and Consult with the Artist
First, make sure to check out our guide to picking the right tattoo artist. Think about what you want to get out of the tattoo, and make sure to consult with the artist beforehand, both to make sure they are a good fit, and to know what to expect during the tattooing session. If you are opting for a nipple and areola tattoo, then your artist will discuss options for your placement, size, and pigment. We partner with many amazing tattoo artists around New England, and we highly recommend all of them.
Give Yourself Enough Time
Most tattoo artists recommend you be at least 12 weeks post-op with healed wounds before getting a tattoo. Make sure to also check with your doctor to ensure you are ready for tattooing. Everybody is different, so it could take you more or less time to be ready than others.
The Day of Your Tattoo Session
When the day comes, there are a few important dos and don’ts to follow for your tattoo session.
Do:
Arrive to your appointment showered with clean skin
Dress for comfort, as the tattooing process can take a long time to complete. Wear a baggy and comfortable top or a button-down shirt that will be easy to remove. Some tattoo shops may have a robe for you to wear
Make sure you’re well hydrated and have eaten before the session
Don’t:
Do not work out that day
Do not take any blood thinners, painkillers, or drink alcohol beforehand. Painkillers such as Advil and Ibuprofen, as well as alcohol will thin your blood, which could lead to bleeding more easily during the inking process
Do not apply any numbing cream or any type of lotion
Before you begin, your artist will review the placement and pigment of your tattoo. For nipples, the tattooing will take 15 to 30 minutes per nipple, plus added time for placement and pigment mixing. If you are having scar camouflage done, the timing will depend on how large of an area you are tattooing.
Aftercare for Your Tattoo
Your tattoo artist will provide tattoo aftercare directions to help keep the area clean, including applying antibacterial ointment for several days. A bandage will be applied over the tattoo, and healing can take anywhere from 7 to 10 days.
It’s fine to get your tattoo a little wet, but make sure not to submerge it in water for long periods of time. Avoid using a loofah or harsh scrubs on freshly tattooed skin.
The amount of time it takes for your tattoo to heal will depend on its size and your aftercare, so make sure to follow your tattoo artist’s instructions.
Looking for tattoo inspiration? Check out recent work by some of our tattoo artists and follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see new ink-spiration!
