3D nipple tattooing

For people who need to have their nipple(s) removed during mastectomy, 3D nipple tattooing is an option that can recreate the appearance of a physical nipple and areola (the area of dark skin around the nipple). This kind of tattooing is also called medical micropigmentation.

Some people choose to have nipple reconstruction surgery along with 3D tattooing, or just 3D tattooing alone. 3D tattooing is less invasive than nipple reconstruction surgery. It is often a final step in the breast reconstruction process.

How 3D nipple tattoos are created

3D nipple tattoos are made using liquid pigments (colors) injected underneath the skin with a tattooing device. Tattoos can be completed in one to two visits.

During the first visit, a specially trained medical professional or tattoo artist marks the area to be tattooed and makes an outline of the nipple on your reconstructed breast or chest. Local anesthesia can be used if needed.

Then, using a tattooing device, the artist injects the pigments into the marked areas.

The artist creates the illusion of a real nipple and areola around it, using a combination of light and dark pigments. The result is the appearance of a 3-dimensional nipple, but the tattoo is actually flat.

The first tattoo session may last about 2 hours. This visit includes selecting and mixing colors, figuring out tattoo position, and creating the tattoo.

You will likely have at least one more appointment several weeks later so the tattoo specialist can touch up the pigments.

Later on this page, we will share tips on how to find a 3D nipple tattoo artist.

Recovery after 3D nipple tattooing

Here are some things to know about recovery:

• After creating the 3D nipple tattoo, the medical professional or tattoo artist will place gauze over the area.
• Tattoos may take 1-2 weeks to heal. It may take a week or more for the area to settle into its final appearance.
• While you are healing, it’s fine to shower, but avoid baths, swimming, or using a hot tub. Be gentle when washing and drying the tattoo.
• There may be scabbing on your tattoo. Do not pick or peel it, because you may pull ink away.
• Watch for any signs of infection. If you have a fever (101 degrees or higher), pain, increasing redness or warmth, or thick fluid (pus) on or near the tattoo, call your doctor right away.

It’s important to follow your tattoo artist’s instructions on caring for your tattoo and any activities to avoid as it heals.

Tattoos may need occasional touch-up work in the future as pigments naturally fade over time. Some people may choose to see their specialist once a year for touch-up work. Talk with your specialist about skin care that may help preserve the color.

Who can get 3D nipple tattoos?

Anyone who has had any kind of breast cancer surgery or treatment can get a 3D nipple tattoo.

If you have had breast radiation therapy as part of your treatment, keep in mind that you may be more likely to need revisions to the tattoo later. Radiation-related skin changes may affect how the skin accepts the ink. Talk with your doctor and your tattoo specialist about when to time tattooing for the best possible results.

When can a person get 3D nipple tattoos?

If you are thinking about getting a 3D nipple tattoo, it’s best to wait 3 months or more after your final breast reconstruction surgery. This allows time for the body to heal.

If you have had radiation therapy, talk with your care team about how long you should wait after finishing treatment to have a 3D nipple tattoo.

The tattooing process is usually completed over two sessions. The second tattoo session is about 6 to 8 weeks after the first. During the second session, the tattoo specialist may touch up the tattoo. If you have had radiation, you may need more sessions.

Deciding whether to get 3D nipple tattoos

3D nipple tattoos are becoming more popular after mastectomy that removes the nipple. Since they are often a final step after treatment, the tattoos can bring a feeling of completion and relief for many people.

There are many options and combinations:

• 3D nipple tattooing by itself, without surgical nipple reconstruction, can feel like an easier procedure than undergoing another surgery.
• Still, some people want a physical nipple shape. In this case, surgical nipple reconstruction is an option. 3D tattooing to create the look of an areola after nipple reconstruction is also an option.
• Another option: different tattoo designs instead of nipple tattoos. These may be tattoos that have symbolic importance after the intensity of breast cancer treatment. Examples include flowers, butterflies, spiritual symbols, or words that have special meaning.

Not everyone is interested in getting tattoos. After undergoing mastectomy and reconstruction, some people would rather avoid another procedure.

There is no rush to make a decision. If you decide not to get nipple tattoos, you still have the option to get them years later if you change your mind.

Benefits of 3D nipple tattooing

Here are some of the benefits of 3D nipple tattoos:

• They can look very realistic.
• 3D nipple tattoos heal faster than surgically reconstructed nipples.
• For some people, the appearance of a nipple can improve body image (how a person feels about their body) and intimacy.
• Having the appearance of a nipple can take the focus away from scars, reducing visual reminders of breast cancer.
• For some people, 3D nipple tattoos can restore a sense of wholeness.
• Some women who choose 3D tattoos without nipple reconstruction say that they like not having to wear a bra.

Risks of 3D nipple tattooing

Risks and possible side effects of 3D nipple tattooing include:

• It requires at least two visits to complete the process.
• If radiation therapy is part of your treatment plan, you may need more than two visits to finish the tattoo process.
• Tattoo pigment naturally fades over time, and yearly touch-ups may be necessary
• Possible side effects include infection, allergic reaction, inflammation, and keloid (thick, raised) scars.
• Health insurance doesn’t always cover 3D nipple tattooing.

How to find a 3D nipple tattoo specialist

Ask your surgeon to recommend a 3D nipple tattoo specialist. Your surgeon may be able to refer you to one. Some cancer centers have their own tattoo specialists.

Other people on your healthcare team, such as your nurse or the hospital social worker, may also be able to recommend 3D nipple tattoo specialists.

It may also be helpful to visit an online or in-person breast cancer support group to ask for recommendations from others who have tattoos.

A medical professional or tattoo artist who is certified or has a lot of experience with 3D nipple tattooing is likely to provide the best results. Visit our blog to read about one specialist’s experience becoming a medical tattooist.

Seeing photos of a specialist’s past 3D nipple tattoo work is an important part of choosing a specialist. Some tattoo artists have websites with photos of their work. You can also ask to see photos when you meet.

At your initial visit, you can share your ideas for how you want your nipple tattoo or tattoos to look. The tattoo specialist can help you make decisions:

• Some tattoo artists listen to your preferences and then sketch a nipple tattoo design on paper so you can provide feedback.
• If you had breast reconstruction only on one breast, the artist can find pigments to match the nipple on the remaining breast.
• You will work together to figure out the right colors and positions for the tattoos.

Paying for 3D nipple tattoos

Some private health insurance companies cover 3D nipple tattooing if it is performed at your surgeon’s office or hospital, but it’s a good idea to check with your health insurance provider before having the procedure.

It’s important to know that many independent tattoo artists do not accept health insurance, so you will likely have to pay the cost yourself. However, it may be possible to submit a claim for reimbursement after the procedure. Call your insurance company and ask ahead of time.

If you have concerns about paying for nipple tattoos, talk with your healthcare team. They may be able to recommend resources. You can also learn more about paying for care on our Financial matters, health insurance, and work page.