If you’re considering recreating the nipple and areola following a mastectomy, there are several choices available.
When a mastectomy is performed to treat breast cancer, reconstructive procedures can be pursued to restore the contour of the removed breast.
Breast reconstruction often doesn’t include the nipple. Not everyone qualifies for a nipple-sparing mastectomy, depending on cancer type, size, and location.
Nipple reconstruction is usually the concluding phase of breast reconstruction, and for many it symbolizes the end of a challenging period.
Nipple reconstruction carries risks. Still, many people are opting for 3D nipple tattoos as a less invasive alternative.
Below is an overview of the options and what to expect.
Nipple tattoo after mastectomy
Following a mastectomy, 3D nipple tattoos are frequently chosen instead of surgical nipple reconstruction. They provide survivors who want a nipple appearance with a highly realistic, minimally invasive option.
These tattoos are created by tattoo artists working in studios and at some specialized medical clinics. The technician uses an oscillating tattoo needle loaded with pigment, inserting color into the skin to mimic the look of a nipple.
Here’s what typically happens when you schedule a nipple tattoo.
Finding a qualified nipple tattoo artist
Getting referrals from others who have had nipple tattoos is a helpful starting point. If you don’t know someone personally, contact members of a local breast cancer support network or your treatment center.
Many tattoo artists offer nipple tattoo services, so an online search should turn up options in your area.
Do some due diligence to ensure you choose an artist you trust and who has experience in nipple tattooing.
Consider these factors when selecting an artist:
- Visit several tattoo shops, noting cleanliness, vibe, and how professional and courteous staff are.
- Verify the artist’s and the shop’s licensing is in order.
- Ask whether the artist does nipple tattooing outside the studio, as some work with breast surgery centers or cosmetic clinics.
- If privacy matters, seek a shop with a private room or an artist who also practices in a medical facility.
- Ask about sterilization and infection-control protocols.
- Request to see a portfolio of the artist’s nipple tattoo work, not just general tattoo pieces.
Consultation
Before the procedure, you’ll meet with the tattoo artist for a consultation to discuss size, placement, and pigment shades. The artist will examine the area to determine the best approach.
They’ll develop a plan based on your preferences, scar patterns, amount of scar tissue, and skin thickness. You’ll also receive guidance on how to prepare for the appointment.
The day of
On the day of the appointment, arrive having showered and with clean skin. Avoid applying moisturizers or numbing creams.
Bring a bra or camisole to help secure bandages afterward, and wear a loose, comfortable top that opens in front for the procedure. Some studios provide robes or gowns to change into.
You’ll be asked to sign a consent form and may complete a health questionnaire.
You’ll then be escorted to a private room, undress as needed, and lie on an adjustable bed or chair. The artist will disinfect the skin to be tattooed.
During the procedure
Before beginning, the artist will confirm placement and pigment choices. Markings are made, and after your approval, the tattooing starts.
Total appointment time, which includes placement and color preparation, varies by artist. It can last one to three hours depending on whether one or both sides are being tattooed.
The actual tattooing typically takes 15 to 30 minutes per nipple.
Aftercare
When the session ends, a bandage will be applied over the tattoo. Healing commonly takes about a week to 10 days, and you may notice minor scabbing or flaking.
The artist will give you aftercare directions, which usually involve keeping the area clean and applying an antibacterial ointment several times daily for a few days.
Before and after pictures
Does a breast tattoo hurt?
The level of discomfort from a nipple tattoo varies by individual.
Many people experience little to no pain because breast numbness after mastectomy is common, so sensation in the area may be reduced.
Those with implants often have reduced sensitivity as well, even after skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomies.
Nipple tattoo cost
One nipple tattoo typically costs about $350. Artists often offer a slightly lower per-nipple price if both are done together.
Costs differ by artist and location.
Aside from purchasing antibiotic ointment, there are generally no additional expenses. No formal downtime is needed, so you usually don’t have to take time off work to recover.
Some insurance plans cover nipple tattoos if specific criteria are met. The artist can give you a receipt to submit to your insurance provider.
Unless a healthcare professional performs the tattoo, direct billing to insurance isn’t typically possible.
Insurance coverage and requirements vary by provider, so check with your insurer.
Nipple reconstruction surgery
Nipple reconstruction surgery uses skin from the surrounding area or another part of the body to form a new nipple. Some people find it looks more natural; others prefer to avoid another surgical procedure.
This reconstruction is usually performed several months after a mastectomy, depending on healing and whether radiation therapy is needed.
Here’s what to expect during the process.
Finding a plastic surgeon
Many plastic surgeons who perform breast reconstructions also do nipple reconstruction, so you might choose the same surgeon you’ve already seen.
Some surgeons have more experience specifically with nipple reconstruction, so it’s reasonable to seek someone with a proven track record.
Before proceeding, ask about their preferred technique and request before-and-after photos. Discuss the desired size of the new nipple as well.
Nipple reconstruction techniques
The three common techniques used are:
- Using surrounding skin: Small incisions are made to fold and shape nearby skin into a nipple.
- Using a skin graft: Skin from another site (for example, a healed mastectomy scar or loose skin elsewhere) is used to fashion the new nipple.
- Using nipple sharing: If only one breast had a mastectomy, a segment of the remaining nipple can be used to reconstruct the other side.
Regardless of technique, the reconstructed nipple is often intentionally made larger initially because it tends to flatten as it heals.
The day of
Nipple reconstruction is usually an
If you’re considering recreating the nipple and areola following a mastectomy, there are several choices available.
When a mastectomy is performed to treat breast cancer, reconstructive procedures can be pursued to restore the contour of the removed breast.
Breast reconstruction often doesn’t include the nipple. Not everyone qualifies for a nipple-sparing mastectomy, depending on cancer type, size, and location.
Nipple reconstruction is usually the concluding phase of breast reconstruction, and for many it symbolizes the end of a challenging period.
Nipple reconstruction carries risks. Still, many people are opting for 3D nipple tattoos as a less invasive alternative.
Below is an overview of the options and what to expect.
Nipple tattoo after mastectomy
Following a mastectomy, 3D nipple tattoos are frequently chosen instead of surgical nipple reconstruction. They provide survivors who want a nipple appearance with a highly realistic, minimally invasive option.
These tattoos are created by tattoo artists working in studios and at some specialized medical clinics. The technician uses an oscillating tattoo needle loaded with pigment, inserting color into the skin to mimic the look of a nipple.
Here’s what typically happens when you schedule a nipple tattoo.
Finding a qualified nipple tattoo artist
Getting referrals from others who have had nipple tattoos is a helpful starting point. If you don’t know someone personally, contact members of a local breast cancer support network or your treatment center.
Many tattoo artists offer nipple tattoo services, so an online search should turn up options in your area.
Do some due diligence to ensure you choose an artist you trust and who has experience in nipple tattooing.
Consider these factors when selecting an artist:
- Visit several tattoo shops, noting cleanliness, vibe, and how professional and courteous staff are.
- Verify the artist’s and the shop’s licensing is in order.
- Ask whether the artist does nipple tattooing outside the studio, as some work with breast surgery centers or cosmetic clinics.
- If privacy matters, seek a shop with a private room or an artist who also practices in a medical facility.
- Ask about sterilization and infection-control protocols.
- Request to see a portfolio of the artist’s nipple tattoo work, not just general tattoo pieces.
Consultation
Before the procedure, you’ll meet with the tattoo artist for a consultation to discuss size, placement, and pigment shades. The artist will examine the area to determine the best approach.
They’ll develop a plan based on your preferences, scar patterns, amount of scar tissue, and skin thickness. You’ll also receive guidance on how to prepare for the appointment.
The day of
On the day of the appointment, arrive having showered and with clean skin. Avoid applying moisturizers or numbing creams.
Bring a bra or camisole to help secure bandages afterward, and wear a loose, comfortable top that opens in front for the procedure. Some studios provide robes or gowns to change into.
You’ll be asked to sign a consent form and may complete a health questionnaire.
You’ll then be escorted to a private room, undress as needed, and lie on an adjustable bed or chair. The artist will disinfect the skin to be tattooed.
During the procedure
Before beginning, the artist will confirm placement and pigment choices. Markings are made, and after your approval, the tattooing starts.
Total appointment time, which includes placement and color preparation, varies by artist. It can last one to three hours depending on whether one or both sides are being tattooed.
The actual tattooing typically takes 15 to 30 minutes per nipple.
Aftercare
When the session ends, a bandage will be applied over the tattoo. Healing commonly takes about a week to 10 days, and you may notice minor scabbing or flaking.
The artist will give you aftercare directions, which usually involve keeping the area clean and applying an antibacterial ointment several times daily for a few days.
Before and after pictures
Does a breast tattoo hurt?
The level of discomfort from a nipple tattoo varies by individual.
Many people experience little to no pain because breast numbness after mastectomy is common, so sensation in the area may be reduced.
Those with implants often have reduced sensitivity as well, even after skin-sparing or nipple-sparing mastectomies.
Nipple tattoo cost
One nipple tattoo typically costs about $350. Artists often offer a slightly lower per-nipple price if both are done together.
Costs differ by artist and location.
Aside from purchasing antibiotic ointment, there are generally no additional expenses. No formal downtime is needed, so you usually don’t have to take time off work to recover.
Some insurance plans cover nipple tattoos if specific criteria are met. The artist can give you a receipt to submit to your insurance provider.
Unless a healthcare professional performs the tattoo, direct billing to insurance isn’t typically possible.
Insurance coverage and requirements vary by provider, so check with your insurer.
Nipple reconstruction surgery
Nipple reconstruction surgery uses skin from the surrounding area or another part of the body to form a new nipple. Some people find it looks more natural; others prefer to avoid another surgical procedure.
This reconstruction is usually performed several months after a mastectomy, depending on healing and whether radiation therapy is needed.
Here’s what to expect during the process.
Finding a plastic surgeon
Many plastic surgeons who perform breast reconstructions also do nipple reconstruction, so you might choose the same surgeon you’ve already seen.
Some surgeons have more experience specifically with nipple reconstruction, so it’s reasonable to seek someone with a proven track record.
Before proceeding, ask about their preferred technique and request before-and-after photos. Discuss the desired size of the new nipple as well.
Nipple reconstruction techniques
The three common techniques used are:
- Using surrounding skin: Small incisions are made to fold and shape nearby skin into a nipple.
- Using a skin graft: Skin from another site (for example, a healed mastectomy scar or loose skin elsewhere) is used to fashion the new nipple.
- Using nipple sharing: If only one breast had a mastectomy, a segment of the remaining nipple can be used to reconstruct the other side.
Regardless of technique, the reconstructed nipple is often intentionally made larger initially because it tends to flatten as it heals.
The day of
Nipple reconstruction is usually an outpatient procedure without the need to stay overnight. Your surgeon will give preoperative instructions tailored to the technique being used.
The surgeon will mark the breast and any donor site to indicate incision locations.
Most people receive local anesthesia and remain awake while the surgeon injects numbing medicine into the treated areas.
If general anesthesia is required, it will be administered intravenously and you will be asleep.
The operation typically lasts from 15 minutes up to an hour.
Aftercare
After surgery, the surgeon will usually apply antibiotic ointment and protect the area with a nipple shield or bandage, which is commonly kept in place for about 3 to 7 days.
If you had local anesthesia, you can often go home shortly afterward; with general anesthesia, you’ll be monitored as you wake up.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions for caring for dressings and stitches and for when you can shower.
About 4 to 6 months after reconstruction, nipple tattooing can be performed to enhance the appearance.
Before and after pictures
Does nipple reconstruction surgery hurt?
The amount of pain experienced after nipple reconstruction varies between individuals.
Mastectomy often reduces breast sensation because nerves are severed during the operation. A reconstructed nipple is unlikely to regain sensation.
If a skin graft was used, the donor area may be sore and tender for about 1 to 2 weeks. Ask your doctor for suggestions to help ease discomfort.
Nipple reconstruction surgery risks
Nipple reconstruction carries certain risks, including:
- Tissue breakdown: The tissue used to form the nipple may fail and require removal.
- Unsatisfactory results: You might be unhappy with the final placement or with how much the nipple flattens over time.
In many cases, if the nipple has not been tattooed, revision surgery can be considered to improve results.
Nipple reconstruction costs
Most insurers cover breast reconstruction and nipple reconstruction.
However, you may need to coordinate with your insurer and surgeon to ensure claims are approved. Ask about potential out-of-pocket costs, which depend on your individual coverage.
Prosthetic nipples
If neither reconstruction nor tattooing appeals to you, or if you’re not ready, prosthetic nipples are an alternative. These are removable nipples you can apply and take off as you choose.
Prosthetic nipples come in a range of colors and styles to match natural nipples.
Types of prosthetic nipples
There are two primary types of prosthetic nipples:
- Stick-ons: Typically made from soft silicone with adhesive backing so they can be applied and removed at will.
- Temporary tattoos: Applied to the skin with a damp cloth and removable with rubbing alcohol; they can last up to about 2 weeks.
Cost of prosthetic nipples
Costs for prosthetic nipples vary and may depend on insurance coverage. Many plans do cover prosthetics, though you might need to pay initially and submit a claim for reimbursement. Some insurers require a prescription or a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.
If you’re considering prosthetic nipples, discuss this option with your physician to learn the next steps.
The takeaway
There are multiple options after a mastectomy to provide survivors with a realistic nipple appearance. Discuss choices with your doctor to determine which approach best meets your goals and circumstances.
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