Nipple-areolar tattoo: Comprehensive review of history, theory, technique, and outcomes

J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2022 Feb;75(2):544-549. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2021.09.024. Epub 2021 Oct 7.

Abstract

Breast reconstruction aims to achieve a natural look and can involve manipulation or removal of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) as well. One of the final steps of the breast reconstruction process involves creation of the appearance of a new NAC, either via surgical intervention or medical tattooing. Medical tattooing involves little to no surgical intervention while still resulting in aesthetically pleasing results. This specific type of tattooing can be performed by a member of the plastic surgeon team, or a medical tattoo specialist. Integration of this method into plastic surgery practice can prove beneficial to the patient as a viable solution for aesthetically pleasing NAC recreation.

Keywords: Breast reconstruction; Medical tattoo; Nipple-areola complex tattoo.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mammaplasty* / methods
  • Nipples / surgery
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Surgery, Plastic*
  • Tattooing*