NIPPLE - AREOLA PIGMENTATION

Nipple-areola pigmentation is the final stage of breast reconstruction surgery. It is possible to create a natural looking nipple-areola complex with the placement of colour on and around the nipple. Pigment can also be injected into the skin to correct size, shape or symmetry of an existing nipple-areola complex.

During our consultation with you, a shade to match your nipple-areola complex will be selected. However, even the most skilful practitioner cannot achieve a perfect colour match except in bilateral reconstruction. Further, since colour may lighten over time, the initial colour selected may need to be deeper in colour than the final desired colour (colour can reduce up to 30%).

The Procedure
The area to be pigmented will be measured, outlined and marked. You will be given the opportunity to check the final placement in a mirror. A local anaesthetic can be applied to the site to ensure comfort. Sometimes, a sedative is also recommended to promote relaxation.

A unilateral micropigmentation of the nipple-areola area usually takes up to an hour.

The micropigmentation machine allows for the needles to reciprocate rapidly in and out of the skin. The procedure is painless and your comfort during the process is assured. You may feel a 'plucking' sensation. There may be slight bleeding.

The sterile needles are used exclusively for you and are stored on your file for future use

Following the procedure
You may experience swelling or tenderness at the pigmented site. You may need to apply cool compresses to the site and to take a pain reliever. The pigmented site should be kept moist for a period of five to seven days. This can be done by applying a greasy ointment/jelonet and waterproof dressing to the site. For the best results the pigmented area should be left undisturbed until your follow-up appointment one week after the procedure - you can shower as usual, but be careful not to soak or scrub the area. However, you should change the dressing if it becomes waterlogged or bloodstained (we will supply you with extra dressings).

You should avoid direct sunlight for at least six weeks. Also, you should not apply any topical application other than that prescribed for six weeks.

Risks
Micropigmentation is a relatively simple, safe and painless procedure. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of complications, including but not limited to infection, swelling, bruising, rash, tenderness and a reaction to the pigment or local anaesthetic.

Contra-indications
Contra-indications for micropigmentation may arise when the patient has had chemotherapy or radiotherapy where the skin is unable to hold the pigmented colour.

Misconceptions
The most common misconception about micropigmentation is that it is permanent. It is not permanent. While the pigment will reman in the skin for an extended period of time, without a 'touch-up' it may eventually fade and disappear altogether. In addition, the colour selected may appear to be different once it is injected under the skin. It may also appear either too dark or too light. This is due to each individual's unique skin colour and chemical composition.

Your new look
For patients who have undergone breast and nipple reconstruction, micropigmentation of the areola-nipple area is the final procedure required to restore the natural look of the breast.