How Do You Know If Areola Pigmentation Is Right for You?

Areola pigmentation may be worth considering when a mastectomy or breast reconstruction has removed or changed the nipple-areola complex, and you want to restore color and definition. This medical tattoo is optional, not a required part of reconstruction. 

At The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery in Lone Tree, Colorado, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeons Dr. Christopher G. Williams and Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams help you plan finishing procedures after the breast has healed and settled.

What Is Areola Pigmentation?

Areola pigmentation, also called nipple tattooing, places pigment in the skin to recreate the color, size, shape, and position of an areola. It may be performed around a surgically reconstructed nipple. 

Specialized 3-D tattooing can also create the appearance of a nipple on a flat breast mound, although The Breast Center currently refers patients to outside artists for this technique.

Tattooing is one of several nipple and areola reconstruction options after mastectomy. Unlike surgical nipple reconstruction, pigmentation changes the visible color and outline, but does not create physical projection or restore normal nipple sensation.

When Might You Consider Nipple Tattooing?

You may want to discuss areola pigmentation when:

• One or both nipples and areolas were removed during mastectomy
• A reconstructed nipple lacks the color or definition you want
• The two sides differ in color, size, or placement after reconstruction
• You prefer a tattooed appearance without another nipple surgery
• An older medical tattoo has faded, and you are considering a touch-up

You do not have to choose pigmentation simply because it is available. Some women prefer their reconstructed breasts without nipples or tattoos, and others use temporary tattoos or prosthetic nipples before deciding on a permanent change.

When Can Areola Pigmentation Be Performed?

Pigmentation is usually planned near the end of breast reconstruction, after the breast shape and nipple position are stable. 

It’s recommended to wait at least four months after the main reconstruction and at least three months after nipple reconstruction. Your actual timing may differ based on healing, radiation history, skin condition, or additional breast shaping procedures.

Waiting allows swelling to decrease and incisions to mature. It also makes it easier to select the placement, size, and color after the breast has reached a more stable shape.

What Should You Consider Before Deciding?

A consultation should cover what the tattoo can and cannot change. Topics may include:

• Your preferred color, shape, and degree of contrast
• The condition and sensation of the reconstructed skin
• Prior radiation and how the tissue has healed
• The possibility of fading or a future touch-up
• Aftercare while the tattooed skin heals
• The availability of the specific tattooing technique you prefer

Pigment can look darker or more intense immediately after treatment before the skin heals. Results also vary with skin tone, scar tissue, pigment choice, and sun exposure.

What Can Areola Pigmentation Add to Reconstruction?

For some women, adding an areola gives the reconstructed breast a more finished appearance when it is visible, while others are satisfied without it. 

You can view our areola pigmentation gallery to help identify the details you like and questions to bring to your appointment. Individual results vary.

Ask About Areola Pigmentation in Lone Tree, CO

Dr. Christopher G. Williams and Dr. Jeremy Z. Williams evaluate your reconstruction and help coordinate appropriate finishing procedures

Contact The Breast Center Park Meadows Cosmetic Surgery or call 303-706-1100 to discuss areola pigmentation in Lone Tree, CO.