Paramedical Tattoos

What are the medical benefits of Paramedical Tattooing? Some people may have a medical condition or be undergoing treatment that affects their facial hair, including their eyelashes and eyebrows. People with Alopecia Areata, Trichotillomania, Hormonal and Thyroid Conditions, Burn victims, those undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation, antibiotic courses, or simply suffer from the loss of, or growth retardation of their facial hair. Micropigmentation techniques can restore the appearance of hair in areas suffering loss and help to restore the self-esteem of clients. 

Is a consultation necessary for scar/skin camouflage? Your experience with Studio C Ink will begin with an in-person consultation. During this consultation, we will discuss your medical background and any concerns. We will also conduct a small, skin patch test, to insure that you and your skin will tolerate the pigment, if applicable.

Is Paramedical Tattooing painful? Topical anesthetics are used to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. There is usually some minor discomfort, although tolerance levels vary between clients. Most clients find the procedures only mildly uncomfortable. The client’s pain threshold, the technique, and the proper application of topical anesthetic will determine how comfortable the client will be during the procedure. 

Am I a candidate for Scar Camouflage? The scar camouflage technique can help to camouflage scars, burns, birthmarks and other skin imperfections resulting from surgeries and injuries. If you have experienced an injury that has left you with an unsightly scar, you would be an ideal candidate for this procedure.

Do scars on the breast react well to Scar Camouflage? Surgical procedures on the breast can create a scar if they require an incision at or around the edge of the areola. The scar that is left is called a peri-areolar scar. Some breast surgeries also create a vertical scar from the nipple through the lower portion of the breast that may need to be camouflaged. The following are breast surgical procedures that may create a scar: Breast Augmentation or Enlargement (Augmentation Mammoplasty); Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty); Breast Lift (Mastopexy); and Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia). Scar Camouflage can be successful in minimizing the appearance of these scars. It often has a skin smoothing effect on the scars as well, due to the break up of scar tissue.

Are there any safety issues I should be concerned with? All of our procedures performed at Studio C Ink adhere to strict OSHA standards for Blood Born Pathogens and we maintain our OSHA certification by taking an annual exam. All needles and materials, which touch the skin, are sterile and disposable. All necessary precautions are taken to ensure a sterile and hygienic environment. Strict sanitation and sterilization guidelines are followed in accordance with the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). We use single use sterile needles with each application. Pigments are all made from approved compounds. When proper sterilization and sanitation guidelines are followed, Permanent Cosmetics are completely safe. Permanent Cosmetics and tattoos are completely safe as long as you go to a reputable artist who is following all recommended safety precautions; however, it is important to remember that tattoos are not risk-free. The health risks associated with tattooing are small if appropriate disinfection and sterilization techniques are used.

Safety Protocol:

• Pre-sterilized disposable needles which are opened in front of client

• Gamma sterilized pigments used

• Disposable needle containment system

• New gloves between client procedures and throughout your procedure

• Distilled water used in disposable plastic cup

• New wipes, cotton pads and cotton swabs

• Hospital grade disinfectant for tables, lamps, instruments, and surfaces

• Face mask is worn during procedure

Areola/Nipple Restoration Tattoo

What is the process for 3D areola tattooing after breast surgery? 3D areola tattooing is a procedure designed to recreate the appearance of the nipple and areola complex on the breast following mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery. This technique employs pigments to simulate a three-dimensional nipple and areola, providing a natural look without the need for additional surgery.

Timing: It's generally recommended to wait at least 6 months after your final breast reconstruction surgery before undergoing 3D areola tattooing. This waiting period allows sufficient time for your skin to heal properly.

Is a consultation necessary? Your experience with Studio C Ink will begin with an in-person consultation. During this 30-45 min appointment, we will discuss your medical background, any concerns you have, and discuss your wishes for color/shape/size. We will also cover the amount of feeling and sensitivity you have in the area, and if you will need pre-numbing before the areola treatment. We will then schedule your appointment for your 3D Areola tattoos.

Procedure: The process typically involves one or two sessions. During the initial appointment, which lasts about two hours, you'll collaborate with a trained professional to select pigment colors and determine the optimal position for the areolas. The tattooing is then performed using a specialized device. A follow-up session, usually scheduled 6 to 8 weeks later, may be necessary for touch-ups and to ensure the desired outcome.

Pain and Sensation: Most individuals experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, as sensation in the breast area is often reduced following mastectomy. The use of a numbing agent is always an option if there is feeling in the area. Aftercare is similar to that of a traditional tattoo, involving the application of a clear, adhesive bandage for a few days, gentle cleansing with antibacterial soap, and application of healing salve until the area heals.

Insurance Coverage: Many health insurance plans, including Medicare, may cover the cost of nipple and areola tattooing under certain conditions. It's advisable to contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage details. We are happy to provide any documentation necessary.

Undergoing 3D areola tattooing can be a significant step in the emotional and physical recovery process, helping to restore a sense of normalcy and confidence after breast surgery.