AREOLA tattOoING

Lara offers both virtual and in-person consultations to determine if you are a good candidate, explain the procedure and give you the opportunity to answer any questions you may have. You can book a consultation online by clicking "book a consultation" at the top of the page.

This process is usually complete in one - two appointments. Clients will return for a complimentary second session 6-8 weeks after the initial. At the second appointment, colour can be added, tone can be adjusted, details perfected, and any other touch ups required can be done to ensure the most perfect result possible.

It is possible that some clients will require a third session. This is common for those with a lot of scar tissue or when doing a unilateral colour match. This session is priced at $150.

Just like a regular tattoo, this one will last a lifetime (unless exposed to UV). However, because the realism illusion is so heavily dependent on the play of light and shadow, and the precision of the tiny details, some clients but may want a small touch up every 3-10 years to put detail back in and refresh the realism illusion. This is done at a discounted price on a case-by-case basis.

The price is dependent on if the tattoo is bilateral or unilateral. You can find the most up-to-date pricing here

In Canada, post-mastectomy areola tattooing is covered by OHIP if done by a surgeon in the hospital. However, surgeons and nurses do not have the same level of training and expertise as realism tattoo artists. They also do not have access to the multitude of colors and equipment that artists do. As a realism tattoo artist, we spend thousands of hours perfecting our art, studying color theory, and learning about skin to properly and safely give you a beautiful and long lasting healed result.

However, it is worth checking and asking if your insurance will reimburse you, even partially. I will provide any documentation they request.

Hopefully, with enough demand, this will change in Canada, as I, among all other artists and patients, strongly believe it that OHIP should cover areola tattoo artists performing this service.

Make sure you have read the pre and post care entirely. 

The day of the procedure you will want to wear a comfortable bra and bring any photos of your breasts prior to surgery, if you have them (not needed). Feel free to bring inspo photos to show colour, shape and size preferences. 

The area will be covered with a Tegederm dressing (a clear adhesive bandage) for 5 days and you will be given detailed aftercare instructions, aftercare ointment, and all supplies needed to care for your new tattoo.

There is no down time with this procedure and you should be able to resume your normal activities. However, there are a few restrictions: avoid (intentional) sweating for 7-10 days, and no submerging in water (bathtubs, swimming pools, lakes, pools, jacuzzis etc.) for a least 14 days after.

This is something that may be camouflaged depending on what your scars look like. This process works best for hypopigmentated scars (meaning, the scar is lighter in color than surrounding skin).

No, the needle only goes into the dermis which is just 3 layers into the skin.

When you meet Lara, she will work with you to determine color and size by first drawing impermanently on the area. Once the color and size is agreed upon, Lara will create dimension with color and shading, giving you a realistic nipple and areola. When the procedure is finished you will be amazed with the results!

No. Most of the time there is no pain when working on the reconstructed breast. For those who do feel sensitivity, we will apply a topical anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable.