FAQ's for Areolas
How long is the procedure?
I schedule two hours. The tattooing session is around 1 hour. The rest of the time, I like to get to know my clients and make sure I am meeting your expectations and you are comfortable with every part of the process. This includes a meet and greet, go over colors, draw, numbing (if needed), tattoo, apply a bandage(s), and go over aftercare.
How do you control pain?
Every once in a while a client will have discomfort. I will do everything in my power to make the client comfortable if they have feeling. I have several types of numbing cream, I schedule enough time to apply it for as long as needed, I watch the client to see if they show signs of discomfort and then adjust my pressure and/or move to a different place where they are comfortable. I move back to the other spot after the numbing cream works. Most really do not feel much, maybe some pressure or a very mild burning sensation. It really does not feel like a burn, it is the only way I can describe it. I did my own areolas and felt this, but it was nothing. Most clients who felt anything said the same.
What is their aftercare?
A bandage will be applied after the procedure, it stays on for one week. The client can wear a bra and shower. Just no swimming or excessive sweating. Everything else is fine. I have an alternative aftercare for those who have sensitivities.
Can the tattoo match a natural areola when only one side was removed?
Matching is much harder than adding the same color to both sides.
I am very good at matching. Keep in mind, the color will first heal darker and then gradually fade to match better with time. Natural areolas change color and shape due to hormones, temperatures, etc. this can make them look different at times. Also, how they look when you come to the appointment is the way we determine the color and shape to be tattooed.
Do I have to tattoo the natural areola so the recreated side will match?
Only if you want. Matching is a little challenging, but can be matched very well.
Has anyone had an allergic reaction?
Only one time did a client have a few bumps while healing during the first week. It was not serious and went away very quickly.
Will the needle puncture my implant or cause me harm?
No, needles should never go deep.
What type of pigments are used?
At SeaChelle’s, LLC., only the best pigments are used from the U.S.A. They are the same pigments used for professional tattoos.
How are the colors chosen?
Each person is unique, their formula should be equally unique. When I formulate colors, I factor in the client’s lifestyle, skin integrity, color choice, radiation treatments, scar tissue, internal and external health, and how long since their last surgery. Before we start, I show the client several color examples.
Does the artist have experience with compromised skin?
Radiated skin, vitamin deficiencies, dense scar tissue, etc. Color heals differently because of different factors. I have had many clients with compromised skin and have healed beautifully.
How long do the tattoos last?
Depends on the client. Some may come back as-soon-as six weeks or it could be many years. There are different factors:
Colors: lighter and more natural-looking colors fade faster.
Black tattoos last a lot longer.
How much ink was implanted.
Lotions
Scar tissue sometimes does not like to grab color
Will I need a touch-up?
Most of my clients do not come back for a long time. Whereas some may need to come back as early as six weeks. Reasons are: not able to implant enough ink, wanted a very light color, dense scar tissue in the area, changed their mind about the size and/or color, or wants to come back to visit 💕
Some people need a touch up and some do not. It is very difficult to know because everyone accepts color differently. The areola tattoos are more natural and realistic than the regular body tattoos. My goal is to do only one session. However, doing a second session allows me to implant more color which gives it more longevity and allows me to reinforce the three dimensional illusion.
Do you have success with insurance paying for the procedure(s)?
Yes, we accept some insurance carriers and have options for those with carriers we cannot accept. 1. Pay out of pocket and submit a reimbursement claim to your insurance company. 2. We have a list of grants to pay for the procedure.
Do clients have success with reimbursements after paying out of pocket?
There are a few ways to help: Request a medical necessity letter from your plastic surgeon. Send it with the receipt I give you after your appointment. Some will get a portion back while others receive nothing. It is unfair, the cancer fight was already hard, the insurance companies should be more empathetic. If you have the ability, contact your company and educate them on the importance of the areola tattoos.