For many women who have undergone a mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment, breast reconstruction is a significant step in reclaiming their bodies and sense of self. While surgical reconstruction can rebuild the shape and volume of the breast, the creation of a realistic nipple and areola is often the final, transformative touch. This is where breast reconstruction tattoos come into play, offering a remarkable way to complete the journey.
The story of Sandra, a fellow patient who, like myself, had her DIEP flap breast reconstruction in San Antonio, beautifully illustrates the power of these tattoos. We connected through the breast cancer community and share a bond through our experiences at PRMA and the Journey Facebook page. Sandra’s journey highlights not only the functional aspects of reconstruction but also the emotional and aesthetic fulfillment that breast reconstruction tattoos can provide. Her plastic surgeon, understanding the importance of aesthetics alongside health, discussed nipple loss during her initial consultation for DIEP flap surgery. Sandra felt confident in his plan, knowing that nipple reconstruction would follow in the second phase, with areola tattooing as the final step after healing.
Understanding the Costs of Breast Reconstruction Tattoos
The Women’s Health and Cancer Right Act of 1998 mandates insurance coverage for all stages of breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. This includes breast reconstruction tattoos, which are considered the final stage of the process. However, it’s important to remember that deductibles and other insurance costs are still part of the overall financial planning for patients. Sandra initially planned to have her tattoos done at her surgeon’s office, anticipating it would be the same year as her reconstruction. However, a delay due to back-ordered tattoo needles at the office meant she had to postpone this final step until the following year. In retrospect, this delay proved to be a fortunate turn of events.
Discovering Vinnie Myers: A Master of 3D Areola Tattoos
The unexpected wait gave Sandra the opportunity to research tattoo artists specializing in breast reconstruction tattoos. Exploring breast cancer forums and online communities, she noticed a recurring theme: tattoos created by dedicated artists often exhibited less fading compared to those done in medical offices. One name consistently stood out in her research – Vinnie Myers. As she delved deeper into Vinnie’s work, Sandra became increasingly convinced that he was the right artist to complete her breast reconstruction journey.
Vinnie Myers has become renowned for his expertise in 3D areola tattoos. His dedication to breast cancer patients has led to such high demand for his services that he has trained other artists to assist him. Interestingly, Vinnie’s commitment to this specialized field was almost diverted. He had considered stepping back to focus on other tattoo work he had pursued throughout his career. However, fate intervened when his sister received a breast cancer diagnosis. Vinnie took this as a sign to continue his impactful work, providing this crucial service to breast cancer survivors.
A Journey to Maryland for Transformative Artistry
Driven by her research and a strong sense of connection to Vinnie’s artistry, Sandra and her husband embarked on a trip from Texas to Maryland for her breast reconstruction tattoos. They turned the journey into a celebratory weekend, visiting friends in the area and embracing this final step in Sandra’s recovery.
During her appointment, Sandra witnessed Vinnie’s meticulous approach. She described how he carefully analyzed her skin tone, mixing custom colors that she hadn’t even imagined. Employing his exceptional 3D artistry skills, Vinnie created a remarkably realistic and dimensional areola tattoo, even incorporating details like the Montgomery glands. Adding a personal and heartwarming touch to the experience, Sandra’s husband also got a tattoo during their visit, showing his support and solidarity.
Breast Reconstruction Tattoo: Sandra's areola and nipple tattoo by Vinnie Myers completes her breast cancer journey, showcasing natural-looking 3D artistry.
Sandra generously shared the results of her breast reconstruction with me, showcasing the incredible outcome achieved through the combination of a skilled plastic surgeon and the artistry of Vinnie Myers. Her story is a testament to the profound impact that breast reconstruction tattoos can have, truly completing the patient journey and empowering women to feel whole again after breast cancer. Sandra’s experience underscores the importance of researching and choosing an artist who specializes in breast reconstruction tattoos to achieve the most natural and aesthetically pleasing results.
