As everyone has a different pain threshold, this is a difficult question to answer. The majority of areola placement sites have no feeling. But, should nerve endings have feeling, a topical numbing agent will be used before, during and after the procedure ensuring client comfort.

It is important to ensure the breast mound is stable, in its final position and incision sites have healed. It is recommended to wait at least 8 weeks from when the last breast reconstruction has been done or as approved by your physician, but no sooner than 8-12 weeks.

At least two appointments. The initial appointment to lay the foundation of color and a second “perfection” appointment to add depth of color and any finer characteristic details. Depending on the condition of the skin, amount of scar tissue, medications and if treatments such as radiation have been used, a third appointment may be necessary.

In a perfect world, yes. However, like eyebrows, they are sisters and not twins. There are variables and considerations to account for that will impact color retention and the final result such as: the type of reconstruction, scar tissue, radiation on one or both breasts, difference in skin from one breast to another, different medications (for example morphine), your sleep position.

Due to the lack of UV exposure, in most cases, you may not need a touchup for 10 years or more.

No. Regardless of how thin you feel your skin is, you have the same layers as everyone else. The pigment is implanted just below the epidermis into the top dermal layer so your implant is safe.

The color will fade and soften, especially during the first 30 days of epidermal cell turnover. Variables that effect color include sun or UV exposure, metabolic conditions including hypothyroidism or an overactive immune system.

You won’t have any down time but you should take some things into consideration. You may feel tired after your appointment so please rest and hydrate. Please avoid swimming in open water or pools for at least two weeks following your procedure. Avoid heavy sweating and clothes/fabrics which may cause friction for the first two weeks.

As with any procedure where the skin is broken there are risk factors. These may include infection, allergic reaction, granulomas and/or keloid formations.

Under the 1998 WHCRA law, regardless of the reason, if your insurance covers mastectomies they must provide the same coverage, including restoration.

You will resubmit the claim and ask for an out of network exception or gap exception. For this type of specialized work, there usually is not an artist in the network.

At this time, no. We are in the process of being able to submit claims however we are not quite there yet! In the meantime, we will provide you with a Letter of Medical Necessity “LOMN” and a detailed receipt with the necessary diagnosis and procedure codes needed for reimbursement.

Unfortunately, no. If your insurance currently covers mastectomies then you can be confident they will cover the Areola/Nipple Restoration. Please don’t hesitate to contact your insurance carrier to inquire on coverage prior to your appointment.

Yes! According to the CDC, approximately 1 out of every 100-breast cancer diagnosis is found in men. Everything applies!