What is a 3D Nipple?

When Nipple Sparing Mastectomy (“NSM”) isn’t an option or breast reconstruction takes place at a time after mastectomy (“delayed reconstruction”), the newly reconstructed breast may be completed with a recreation of the nipple as the finishing touch.

There are 2 innovative ways used at the Center For Restorative Breast Surgery to restore the nipple after mastectomy. Both are designed to highlight the beauty of our procedures that restore feminine form.

“3D” Nipple Tattooing is a method that may be used to create an image of a nipple on the skin with dimensional shading within the pigment of the tattoo ink. This technique adds visual realism to the coloration used to restore the nipple pigment.

The newly applied nipple image isn’t actually palpable and is flat to the touch (see photo gallery for examples). For restoration of the nipple with both a physical and visual element of realism the Center physicians have recently developed the “4D Nipple^®procedure” to take the art of nipple reconstruction to the next level.

The Center for Restorative Breast Surgery works exclusively with Vinnie Myers, nationally renowned tattoo artist, to provide the benefit of his talents in the art of nipple pigment application to our patients.

When is it Used?

3D Nipple Tattooing is used when the nipple is lost to mastectomy as a part of the treatment plan. Most women are candidates for nipple preservation with Nipple Sparing Mastectomy but for those who have had mastectomy in the past or require resection of the nipple with their mastectomy design, 3D Nipple pigment may be used to recreate an image of a natural nipple on the breast skin following breast reconstruction.

3D Nipple image application is appropriate for women who wish to have a finishing touch applied to their breast reconstruction but prefer not to have a physical reality within the nipple color. For those who want an added physical reality to the restored nipple, 4D Nipple^® Restoration provides both dimensional coloration and a realism that comes with a subtle and carefully designed nipple prominence within the depth of the visual color restoration.

What are the Benefits?

There are a number of benefits of 3D Nipple pigment application. Application of color to the well-shaped breast reconstruction restores realism to the overall result. Nipple restoration also provides a focal point with the breast mound that reduces the appearance of scar lines in the reconstructed breast. This added benefit can provide the perfect finishing touch to the sophisticated techniques pioneered at the Center and close the circle of recovery and restoration of wholeness for the women we care for.

What are the Risks?

3D Nipple Tattooing at The Center for Restorative Breast Surgery is attended to with the utmost attention to sterility and careful technique. The highest quality pigments are used to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Mild swelling or a sensation of burning in the tattoo can occur with MRI imaging but this happens rarely and does not last long.

The Procedure

WHAT TO EXPECT

3D Nipple Tattooing is completed under sterile conditions in the clinic at The Center for Restorative Breast Surgery. The pigment may be applied, in most circumstances, 3-4 months after breast reconstruction is complete.

THE PROCEDURE

When you arrive at the clinic, you will be escorted into the minor procedure room where you will be made comfortable. Your artist will discuss your preference regarding pigment tone and other details related to the image to be created. Then careful design markings will be applied and the pigment application is completed.

THE FOLLOWUP

Your artist and our clinic staff will give you care instructions following the completion of your procedure. Careful attention to post-care will ensure the best possible outcome in your newly applied 3D nipple image.

RETURN HOME

If you are traveling from out of state or internationally for care with us, you may generally return home the same day of your procedure if you wish.

We Are Here For You

Be reassured that you are being attended to by some of the most highly skilled and dedicated healthcare providers in the world. Do your best to relax knowing that we are going to take excellent care of you from the moment you enter our facility. Do not hesitate to ask for any special needs you may have.

Our care team is available take your call at 504-899-2800 or 888-899-2288 or you can fill out the form below to ask a question or book an appointment.