Mastectomy tattoos are a beautiful way to transform scars into stunning works of art, offering a unique form of healing and self-expression after breast surgery.
If you clicked on this article, you could be exploring this option for yourself or supporting a loved one. Either way, understanding the journey from surgery to artistry can be both enlightening and empowering.
Before we explore the transformative power of mastectomy tattoos and discover how they can help celebrate your unique path to healing, let’s talk about what does a mastectomy mean for women who have undergone the invasive procedure.
What is a Mastectomy Tattoo?
Mastectomy tattoos are decorative tattoos over or along the removed breast tissue, either highlighting the scarring that occurs during breast removal, or to cover the scars.
Mastectomy tattoos have become a powerful symbol of strength and recovery, allowing individuals to reclaim their bodies and embrace their new chapter with boldness and creativity.
Imagine turning a canvas of resilience into a masterpiece that tells a story. From floral designs to intricate patterns, these tattoos offer a personalised touch that resonates deeply with each individual’s journey.
These beautiful mastectomy tattoos help the breast cancer survivor by showing what they have endured and can make women feel a whole lot more confident after surgery.
- What is a Mastectomy Tattoo?
- How Do I Find a Tattooist that will Do a Mastectomy Tattoo?
- How Long After My Mastectomy Can I Get a Mastectomy Tattoo?
- Mastectomy Tattoo Preparation and Aftercare
- Types of Mastectomy Tattoo
How Do I Find a Tattooist that will Do a Mastectomy Tattoo?
Any qualified tattooist can do a mastectomy tattoo, but it’s about who you are comfortable with. If you have had tattoos in the past and are happy with your current tattooist, go with them.
If this is your first, shop around and speak to them – Tattooists are typically very understanding and will go to great lengths to ensure you are comfortable and will see your vision.
If you are located in Queensland – I personally recommend Luke Bishop from Solid Gold Tattoo in Gympie.
How Long After My Mastectomy Can I Get a Mastectomy Tattoo?
All your breast scarring needs to be totally healed before your doctor will allow you to get a mastectomy tattoo.
It varies from person to person, but some can get a tattoo six months after surgery and any chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment.
Personally, I think it is best to wait after a year as getting a tattoo requires planning and commitment.
Mastectomy Tattoo Preparation and Aftercare
As I mentioned above, deciding on getting a tattoo requires planning and commitment. Preparing for and caring for a mastectomy tattoo involves a few crucial steps to ensure the best results.
You will need:
1. Mild, Fragrance-Free Soap or Body Wash
To ensure your skin is clean and free of any irritants before your tattoo appointment, invest in a gentle, fragrance-free soap. This will help prevent any potential reactions on the day of your tattoo.
Ego QV Gentle Wash 1 Litre
Available at:
- Priceline Pharmacy (lowest price)
- Chemist Direct
- Pharmacy Online
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Available at:
Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash
Available at:
2. Hydrating, unscented moisturiser or soothing gel
Make sure to help keep your skin hydrated leading up to your tattoo session. Opt for something that’s designed for sensitive skin, such as Aveeno or Cetaphil. Here are some recommended products:
Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion
Available at:
Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion
Available at:
QV Skin Lotion
Available at:
3. Comfortable clothing
Wear the most comfortable clothing you have, you will need a comfortable loose top and tops to move freely and conveniently.
Front opening bras are heaven sent!
I also love dresses that’s loose everywhere and so fancy. I wear it mostly at home while I do my work just so I can get into an energetic mood, but of course you wear it during school run, lunch with friends or to errands – do it! It helps to our healing emotionally when we do things and wear things that make us feel good.
Choose dresses that are a bit fancy but also comfortable for when you need to raise your hands but have a hard time doing it.
4. Tattoo Aftercare Ointment
Your tattoo artist will likely recommend a specific aftercare ointment. Popular options include Aquaphor Healing Ointment or Bepanthen. These products help keep the tattoo moist and aid in the healing process.
Bepanthen Antiseptic Cream
Widely recommended by tattoo artists, Bepanthen provides a protective barrier while aiding in the healing process. Its antiseptic properties help prevent infection, making it a popular choice for fresh tattoos.
Available at:
Ego QV Intensive Ointment
QV’s Intensive Ointment is designed for extremely dry or sensitive skin, making it perfect for tattoo aftercare. It helps maintain hydration and protects the skin as it heals.
Available at:
Types of Mastectomy Tattoo
There are a few different types of mastectomy tattoos depending on your preferences and surgical outcomes. We have put them into the following categories:
As we add more designs, we will add further categories for you to choose from.
1. Mastectomy Tattoos Over Breast Implants
A bird and flowers bring out positivity
An elegance that transcends the scars
A full tattoo that is a serious work of art
Simple but classy with a burst of colour
A Masectomy Tattoo that Shows Fierceness and Strength
A pair of Angel Wings fit for a Breast Cancer Survivor
Purple to portray Femininity and Power
Pink is the colour of Breast Cancer Awareness
Butterfly and eagle wings to represent the strength and gentleness of a woman
A Kick-Ass Tribal Mastectomy Tattoo
Dark Roses for Silent Resilience
A colourful owl for wisdom
This colorful butterfly symbolises femininity
Intricacy and female complexity
And a tattoo to remind everyone that breast cancer survivors are not weak and frail
2. Flat Mastectomy Tattoos
What do you think of these beautiful mastectomy tattoos?
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