Tattoos over mastectomy scars

Yes. Many women choose tattoos after breast cancer surgery, either to cover or decorate a mastectomy or lumpectomy scar, or to recreate the appearance of a nipple and areola after reconstruction. For some, a decorative tattoo, such as flowers, vines, feathers, mandala-style patterns, words or other designs, is a way to reclaim their body, mark the end of treatment or turn a scar into something they find beautiful. Others simply want the chest to look more even. There are two main types. Decorative tattoos are artistic designs placed over or around the scar, usually done by an experienced tattoo artist. Medical or nipple-areola tattoos use pigments to create a realistic, three-dimensional-looking nipple and areola, and may be done by a trained nurse, a doctor, or a specialist tattoo artist. Timing matters. Scars should be fully healed and mature, which usually means waiting at least several months to a year after surgery, and longer after radiation, because treated skin is thinner, drier and slower to heal. Before getting a tattoo, it is sensible to talk with your breast surgeon or oncologist about your skin, any ongoing treatment, and your risk of arm swelling, and to choose a clean, licensed studio with experience of scar tissue.

Scar tissue is different

Scar tissue can absorb ink unevenly and may be more or less sensitive than normal skin, so experienced artists adapt their technique.

Numbness can hide pain

Numb areas may not feel pain, so artists need to be careful not to over-work the skin.

It is your choice

Tattoos are a personal decision, and there is no pressure to get one.

Good aftercare helps the tattoo heal well and lowers infection risk.

Keep it clean

Wash gently with mild soap and water, pat dry, and apply the ointment your artist recommends.

Loose clothing

Wear soft, loose tops and avoid tight bras over the fresh tattoo.

Avoid water and sun

Avoid swimming, soaking and direct sun until it has healed.

Watch for infection

Spreading redness, swelling, pus, fever or increasing pain need medical attention.

Protect long term

Use sunscreen or clothing to protect the tattoo and scar from fading.

For women who have had breast reconstruction, nipple and areola tattooing is often the final step. It can make a reconstructed breast look more natural and help it match the other side.

Timing

It is usually done several months after reconstruction, once the shape has settled and any nipple reconstruction surgery has healed.

Colour matching

The practitioner mixes pigments to match the other nipple, or chooses a natural shade if both breasts were reconstructed. Shading can create the illusion of a raised nipple.

The session

Sessions often take an hour or two. Reconstructed skin is frequently numb, so many women feel little discomfort, though sensitivity varies.

Healing and touch-ups

The area may scab lightly and flake for a week or two. Colour often fades somewhat, so a touch-up session is commonly needed after a few months, and further top-ups may be needed over the years.

Aftercare for nipple tattoos

Keep the area clean and dry, apply the ointment you are given, wear a soft bra, and avoid swimming, soaking and direct sun until the tattoo has healed fully.

Planning ahead

Bring a photo of the other nipple, if you have one, to help match size and colour.

Where to have it done

Ask your reconstruction team whether they offer tattooing or can recommend an experienced practitioner.

Three-dimensional tattoos

Some specialist tattoo artists create highly realistic nipple tattoos using advanced shading techniques.