Introduction
Areola tattooing has emerged as a popular cosmetic and medical procedure in New York City. For individuals who have undergone breast surgery, such as mastectomies or breast reconstructions, areola tattooing can help restore a natural appearance and boost self - confidence. This article will present a ranking list of areola tattooing beauty hospitals in New York City and also provide a detailed price list.
What is Areola Tattooing?
Areola tattooing is a specialized form of tattooing that focuses on recreating or enhancing the appearance of the areola, the circular area around the nipple. There are different types of areola tattooing:
- 3D Nipple Tattoos: These tattoos are designed to create a realistic, three - dimensional look of the nipple and areola, often used after breast reconstruction surgeries. Tattoo artists use shading and color techniques to mimic the natural features, including Montgomery glands, blood vessels, and even freckles. For example, Valeria, a professional in the field, creates highly detailed 3D nipple tattoos by mixing up to 5 tones to achieve a natural color and realistic result (https://www.bestmicroblading - nyc.com/services/nipple - tattoo).
- Areola Restoration Tattoos: If you have had breast surgery, breast enlargement, reduction, or uplift, you may be left with scarring to the nipple area. Areola restoration tattoos can help achieve symmetry, alter areola colors, enlarge or smooth the areola, and disguise and revise scars from surgery. Men who have had gynecomastia surgery can also benefit from this service (https://www.zyanyabeauty.com/medical - tattooing/).
- Decorative and Heart - shaped Areola Tattoos: This procedure intends to correct the shape or provide a more saturated color. Tattooing the skin around the nipples can enhance the natural attractiveness of the breast, and artists can create non - traditional shapes like heart - shaped areolas for those who desire a unique look.
The Importance of Areola Tattooing
For breast cancer survivors, areola tattooing is more than just a cosmetic procedure; it is an important part of the emotional and physical recovery process. After undergoing a mastectomy, many women feel a sense of loss and self - consciousness. Areola tattooing can help them regain a positive self - image and feel whole again. As mentioned in https://www.allure.com/story/mastectomy - tattoos - near - me, mastectomy tattoos "offer survivors an opportunity for a greater sense of closure around the loss of their breast(s) and can play an important role in helping them feel whole again, both physically and emotionally."
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Areola Tattooing Hospital
- Artist Experience: Look for hospitals or studios where the tattoo artists have extensive experience in areola tattooing. Experienced artists are more likely to create realistic and natural - looking results. For example, ask about the number of areola tattoo procedures they have performed and see if they have worked with patients who have similar medical histories or aesthetic goals.
- Portfolio: Review the artist's portfolio of previous areola tattooing work. This will give you an idea of their style, skill level, and the quality of their results. You can look for portfolios on the hospital's website or social media pages.
- Medical Background: Since areola tattooing is often related to medical procedures such as breast reconstruction, it is beneficial if the artist has some medical background or works closely with medical professionals. They should understand how to work with scar tissue and compromised skin, which is common after breast surgery.
- Client Reviews: Read reviews from previous clients to learn about their experiences with the hospital and the tattooing process. Reviews can provide insights into the quality of service, the professionalism of the staff, and the overall satisfaction of the clients.
- Cost: The cost of areola tattooing can vary depending on the hospital, the complexity of the procedure, and the location. It is important to get a detailed quote from the hospital and understand what is included in the price, such as follow - up sessions.
Ranking List of Areola Tattooing Beauty Hospitals in New York City
1. Sauler Institute
The Sauler Institute has a strong reputation in New York City for areola and nipple tattooing. They expanded to NYC to meet the high demand for medical and cosmetic tattooing procedures in the area. The institute offers 3D nipple tattooing, scar camouflage, and other permanent makeup services.
- Location: Their NYC office is located at 120 East 56th Street, Suite 910, New York, NY 10022, and they also have an office with Dr. Adam R. Kolker at 710 Park Avenue, New York City, NY 10021 (https://www.saulerinstitute.com/locationpricing/new - york/).
- Artist Reputation: They have received many positive client reviews. For example, a client said, “Mandy - you did my areola tatttoo(s) about three and a half years ago - don’t know if I ever thanked you but you did an amazing job – I could never thank you enough for making me feel normal again!” Their artists are praised for their ability to create realistic and natural - looking areola and nipple tattoos.
- Price: Areola tattoos at the Sauler Institute cost $100. Unlike some other permanent makeup procedures, areola tattoos do not have refreshes, and follow - ups are scheduled on an as - needed basis.
2. Nmr Tattoo
Nicole M. Rizzuto, the medical tattoo artist behind Nmr Tattoo, is an expert in repigmentation and 3D nipple and areola tattooing, as well as scar camouflaging. The studio offers areola tattooing services for breast cancer survivors and those who need areola restoration.
- Location: The studio is located in Bellmore, about an hour and a half drive outside of New York City. If you prefer options more centrally located in New York City, their artists also work with Friday Jones at the center for breast reconstruction (https://www.allure.com/story/mastectomy - tattoos - near - me).
- Artist Experience: Nicole M. Rizzuto is a former surgical technologist, which gives her a unique understanding of the medical aspects related to areola tattooing. She has the knowledge and skills to work with patients who have had breast surgery and can ensure a safe and effective tattooing process.
- Price: Specific pricing details may vary depending on the individual case, but the studio can provide a detailed quote after a consultation. In general, they work with clients to understand their needs and financial situations, and they also assist with insurance reimbursement when applicable (https://www.nmrtattoo.com/pricing).
3. Blush
Blush offers a range of permanent makeup services, including 3D areola tattoos. They are known for their professional staff and attention to detail in the tattooing process.
- Location: The exact location can be found on their official website. They strive to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for their clients.
- Artist Skills: Their artists are trained in creating natural - looking areola tattoos. They work closely with clients to understand their aesthetic goals and ensure that the final result meets their expectations.
- Price: The 3D areola tattoo at Blush starts at $350. They also have a clear pricing policy for other related services, such as scar and stretch mark camouflage, which costs $250 per 1 - hour (https://www.blushmestudio.com/price - list).
Price List for Areola Tattooing in New York City
Hospital/Studio | Procedure | Price | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Sauler Institute | Areola Tattoos | $100 | No refreshes, follow - ups as needed |
Blush | 3D Areola Tattoo | Starting at $350 | |
Zyanya Beauty | Bilateral Areola Tattoo or Repigmentation | $900 | Includes follow - up session approximately 6 - 8 weeks after initial tattoo session |
Zyanya Beauty | Unilateral Areola Tattoo or Repigmentation | $450 | Includes follow - up session approximately 6 - 8 weeks after initial tattoo session |
Pre - procedure Preparation
Proper preparation before areola tattooing is crucial for a successful procedure and optimal results. Here are some general pre - procedure steps:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the tattoo artist. During this consultation, you can discuss your medical history, expectations, and the details of the procedure. The artist will also assess your skin condition and determine if you are a suitable candidate for areola tattooing.
- Medical Clearance: If you have had breast surgery or other medical conditions, it is important to get medical clearance from your doctor before the tattooing procedure. This will ensure that your body is ready for the tattoo and reduce the risk of complications.
- Avoid Certain Substances:
- One week prior to the tattoo, avoid medications and foods that can increase the likelihood of bleeding problems, such as steroids, anti - inflammatories, aspirin, ibuprofen, and foods containing garlic, ginger, ginkgo, etc. (https://www.zyanyabeauty.com/medical - tattooing/).
- Avoid nicotine for two weeks before and after the procedure.
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to the procedure.
- Protect Your Skin: Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, or tanning lotions for at least a week before the procedure. This is important because it can change your natural skin color, making it difficult for the artist to match the pigment correctly.
- Other Preparations: On the day of the tattoo, shower and wash the breast area, but do not use any creams. Wear a loose bra and top for comfort and make sure you eat a meal before getting tattooed. You can also bring water during the tattoo session.
Post - procedure Care
After areola tattooing, proper post - procedure care is essential to ensure proper healing and long - lasting results.
- Dressing: A tegaderm dressing will be placed over the fresh tattoo. Keep the clear dressing on for 3 - 5 days. Then, take it off in the shower and clean gently with plain soap and warm water (https://www.zyanyabeauty.com/medical - tattooing/).
- Ointment Application: Apply non - fragrant ointments, such as aquaphor or A & D ointment, for 7 to 10 days, applying 2 - 3 times a day. Avoid using bacitracin, vaseline, or perfume lotions.
- Avoid Certain Activities:
- No vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours as it can raise your blood pressure and cause swelling.
- Avoid pools, baths, jacuzzis, oceans, and saunas for three to four weeks to prevent infection. Do not submerge your entire body in water or expose it to extreme heat.
- Follow - up Sessions: Most areola tattooing procedures require follow - up sessions to ensure the best results. These sessions are usually scheduled 6 - 8 weeks after the initial tattoo and are used to make any necessary adjustments and boost the color.
- Contact Your Provider: If you have any concerns during the healing process, such as frequent or unusual bleeding, discomfort, or signs of infection, contact your tattoo artist or referring physician immediately.
Insurance Coverage for Areola Tattooing
Areola tattooing for breast cancer survivors is often covered by health insurance plans as part of the breast reconstruction process. Thanks to the “Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) of 1998,” nipple restorative tattoos due to breast cancer surgery are considered a part of the entire reconstruction process. However, the reimbursement amount varies depending on the insurance plan.
- Steps for Reimbursement:
- Use the national provider identifier (NPI), and the doctor initiates an outside referral for medical authorization (allow 2 + weeks). Once the necessary paperwork is received, the appointment can be scheduled (https://www.nmrtattoo.com/pricing).
- The tattoo studio or hospital will provide you with an itemized bill or “superbill” as well as receipts and notes for submission to your insurance company. Tattoos usually have to be paid in full out of pocket on the day of the appointment, and then you can seek reimbursement from your insurance.
- You may need to provide medical information such as diagnosis, surgical procedures, and medical history to support your claim. It is important to call your insurance company in advance to find out the specific requirements and the amount you will be reimbursed.
- Cosmetic Areola Tattooing: Cosmetic areola tattooing, which is for those who desire more color and a fuller size areola without a medical reason, is not covered by insurance.
Conclusion
Areola tattooing is a valuable procedure for many individuals in New York City, especially breast cancer survivors and those who have had breast surgery. When choosing an areola tattooing beauty hospital, it is important to consider factors such as artist experience, portfolio, medical background, client reviews, and cost. We have presented a ranking list of some of the top areola tattooing hospitals in New York City, along with a detailed price list to help you make an informed decision.
If you are considering areola tattooing, take the time to research and choose a reputable hospital or studio. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and get a better understanding of the procedure. Remember to follow the pre - and post - procedure instructions carefully to ensure a successful and satisfying experience. Don't hesitate to reach out to these professionals to take the first step towards restoring your confidence and achieving a natural - looking areola.