Giving Hope to Breast Cancer Survivors

I realized after years of performing areola tattooing that many breast cancer survivors were simply not able to go that last mile to have their areola tattooed. Countless women would share with me that their mastectomy and reconstructive surgery had been several years prior and they just couldn't do one more thing, emotionally or physically. Another obstacle some encountered was their reconstructive surgeon had moved out of state or retired. These survivors would have to pay, out of pocket, for the tattooing and this simply became another deterrent.

So, I decided to create a volunteer program, called The Beau Day of Hope where I contacted other practitioners that specialize in areola tattooing to join me at my location and provide this service for some of these women. Our first year was a huge success and we were able to give several women the 3-D areola tattooing, at no charge. There were hugs and tears of joy that continued throughout the day. There was such a magnificent synergy; we decided to announce it to out of state practitioners, so they can hold a Day of Hope in their own facilities, across the country. Their participation meant, as a profession, we could accompany many more women to the end of their arduous journey and provide the confidence, familiarity and femininity that they so deserve.



Hope is defined as the expectation of fulfillment and that was what I wished to achieve during this day. To help women feel that fulfillment & completion when they have the areola tattooed. I wanted to put an end to the heart wrenching experiences that my client survivors share with me regarding their aesthetic issues. Many tell me they hadn't looked at themselves in a mirror for several years or they wouldn't allow their husbands to see their breasts since their reconstruction. I have found that some survivors even feel a little guilty worrying about how they look or don't look and they should just be happy being alive and well. They tell me that when they faced their mortality, their emotions riddled their minds and this was the last thing on their list in surviving.

It's so difficult to hear because I know the simplicity of the tattooing and how much it will do for her, on so many levels. I know that her reconstructive surgery will suddenly take on a new life and appear realistic. Although, her breasts may not be the same as they were before her cancer and mastectomy, they will appear convincingly feminine and beautiful. I know that this is often the final step in this most difficult journey. I am always so grateful to be able to share in this and so happy she found her way to us. 

Our Beau Day of Hope is October 28th. Join us and help us spread the word!

3-D Areola Tattooing...Re-acquainting Femininity with Art

Too often my clients say, as they opened their examining gowns to show me their reconstructed breasts, that they are not thrilled and even unhappy with their results. However, when they unfold their gowns they reveal magnificent breasts that they simply cannot see. Without the nipple areola complex, it is difficult for them to see the forest through the trees. It always saddens me to hear this.  Without the areola/nipple complex, many women have difficulty appreciating the brilliant surgical and artistic skills that were perfectly executed by their surgeons.

Before 3-D Tattoo	Healed 3-D Tattoo

Once the 3-D tattoo is done, their breasts take on a new life that brings with it, familiarity, femininity, confidence and a new appreciation for their reconstructive surgery.

Opting for the Art of 3-D Areola Tattooing Instead of a Nipple Graf

Women talk! We are excellent at reaching out to other women that have the same or similar issues. It could be anything from a housekeeping issue, child rearing questions that they want answers to and most certainly health issues. We see the countless support groups that have been formed by women dealing with cancer and facing the loss of their breasts. These women may be presented with several options for reconstruction and will seek out other women who have had these various surgeries for their input. This helps her make an informed decision. Blessed with the technology of today, these groups have been placed within arm's reach and distance is no longer an issue.

I have found that many women that have the choice of a nipple graft or the 3-D areola tattoo are opting for the 3-D tattoo. There are a couple of reasons for this decision. The tattoo avoids the additional surgical procedure as well as the risk of the nipple showing through her clothing, since it remains erect.  Many women, following a mastectomy, are not in need of a bra and find this so freeing. A nipple that protrudes can dash this opportunity. The beauty of the tattooing is she can still have a nipple graft at a later date if she wishes. The tattoo will not prevent any future change of heart.

When a Nipple Graft is Not an Option

Often, when a mastectomy is accompanied by radiation or even complications from surgery, a nipple graft is not an option. However, being able to offer the realistic effects of the 3-D areola/nipple tattoo is a truly wonderful solution and with little to no compromise.

Even the texture of a natural areola/nipple complex can be achieved. It is such an amazingly natural effect and brings symmetry and realism to reconstructed breasts.

Here at the Beau Institute we offer 3-D areola tattooing free of charge for those who choose this option.  The joy and appreciation they express when this procedure is complete is so very rewarding to us.  Their courage inspires us to reach out and share this experience with anyone in need of this procedure.

For more information regarding 3 D Areola Tattooing and The Beau Institute, Visit Our Areola Nipple Tattooing page on our website by clicking here.