The areola, which is the circular area of darker skin around the nipple, plays an important role in aesthetics more than anything else. While it’s something you might not think about day to day, the loss of your areola as a result of breast reconstruction can have a major impact on your self-esteem. Fortunately, there is a solution for those who’ve had to undergo such surgeries, in the form of 3D Areola Repigmentation and Areola Neutralization.
Who Might Need 3D Areola Repigmentation?
Not everyone requires areola repigmentation or neutralization in their lifetime, but it is something that many people who’ve undergone surgery might have to consider. Some of the instances where such areola tattooing might be useful include:
- People who’ve had breast augmentations (augmentation mammoplasty)
- People who’ve had breast reductions, including male breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty | gynecomastia)
- People who’ve had breast lifts (mastopexy)
- People who’ve had breast implants
- People have had gender confirmation surgery
- People who’ve had unilateral or bilateral mastectomies
- People who have hyperpigmentation
- People who are unhappy with the color or appearance of their areolas
If you’re having 3D areola repigmentation after surgery, it’s recommended that you wait 4 months after the surgery before having any areola tattoo treatment. This gives your body sufficient time to heal completely, and for your breasts to settle into their final position. Remember to consult with your doctor before having an areola tattoo treatment.
What is 3D Areola Repigmentation or Neutralization?
The 3D areola repigmentation treatment is a specialized form of tattooing that recreates the appearance of an areola, minimizes the appearance of any scars, and can seemingly restore the areola to its natural-looking color and shape. Unlike a 2D tattoo, the 3D areola tattoo creates a more realistic impression simply using tattoo techniques.
Similarly, areola neutralization is a way to enhance the appearance of the areola through a tattooing treatment, but it’s often for more subtle adjustments such as hyperpigmentation or a lack of definition in the areola region. This is ideal for men or women who are simply unhappy with the current appearance of their natural nipple and would like it improved.
Both 3D areola repigmentation and areola neutralization are sometimes referred to as areola tattooing, areola micropigmentation, areola pigmentation, areola recoloring, or areola simulation.
How Do 3D Areola Repigmentation and Neutralization Work?
This technique is a form of medical tattooing where a qualified technician will use oscillating needles coated in a pigment made from organic ink to recreate the areola. This procedure requires a skilled and experienced technician who will use precision to create the impression of a 3D areola using shadows and light. These are permanent tattoos, but they will require a touch-up session in a few years. When and how much work is needed will depend on your skin tone, lifestyle, and unique areola requirements.
What Are the 3 Steps in Areola Repigmentation?
If you’re considering having 3D areola repigmentation or areola neutralization, then here are the three steps involved in the procedure.
Step 1: Consultation
You will meet with the technician during a consultation to determine which treatment is best for your specific needs. This will include discussions around the desired size, color, definition, and other requirements for your areola tattoo.
Step 2: Color Selection
The next step is the color selection for your areola tattoo because some people prefer to have the tattoo match their original areola, whereas others – particularly those going for areola neutralization, are looking for an areola tattoo that defines the area better. Because no skin tones are exactly the same, the aesthetician will custom blend a mixture of pigments that will best match your skin tone. If you’ve had a mastectomy and would like to match the areola then it’s best to bring a picture with you if you have one available.
Step 3: Procedure
You will arrange a time for the procedure to be done and, on the day, you should wear a loose sports bra and a two-piece outfit so the shirt can be easily removed. You will also be advised to avoid:
- Saunas and tanning beds for 1 week before
- Using blood thinners or painkillers
- Working out on the day of your procedure
- Drinking alcohol on the day of your procedure
- Certain medications in the weeks leading up to the procedure (it’s important to consult with your doctor before going ahead)
Your technician might apply some topical cream to numb the affected area, and will then begin the areola tattoo process. This should take a couple of hours, with the healing process around eight weeks. During this time, the tattoo will start to settle into the desired color and shape, so don’t be alarmed if it’s not what you want initially. You might need to visit for a follow-up procedure if required.
What Are The Benefits of Areola Restoration Tattoos?
The 3D areola repigmentation and neutralization procedures are purely aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean they’re not important. The benefits of these treatments include:
- Bringing back the natural appearance of your breasts so you feel comfortable.
- Helping you regain confidence after what could be a traumatic surgery.
- Improving your self-esteem and relationship with your body.
- Completing the reconstruction surgery journey.
- Allowing for emotional healing and a happier outlook.
3D Areola Repigmentation and Neutralization in Washington State
This innovative aesthetic technique was first introduced to Washington State by BeautyInk By Leanne. As a dedicated paramedical tattoo specialist, Leanne is constantly researching the latest techniques and technologies to provide her clients with the most efficient and effective aesthetic treatments available. Leanne was the first paramedical tattooist to bring 3D Areola Repigmentation and Areola Neutralization to Washington State from the United Kingdom, as well as the first to bring the innovative Advanced Stretch Mark, and Scar Camouflage techniques first established in Brazil.
If you are considering getting areola tattooing done in Washington State, then contact BeautyInk By Leanne today!
