Tattoo artist Anna Garvey answers your questions about mastectomy tattoos.
Tattoo artist Anna Garvey answers your questions about mastectomy tattoos.
Tattoos are special and unique to the person
I’ve been tattooing for fifteen years. For me, each tattoo is special and unique to the person wearing it. I’m constantly delighted that tattoos are a visual representation on the outside of who we are on the inside.
The tattoo is not 'on' the skin, but it 'is' the skin. It lives, travels, ages and goes everywhere with the wearer for the rest of their life.
I help empower people to reclaim their bodies
A decade into my tattooing career, I did my first post-mastectomy tattoo.
I had a good amount of knowledge and experience – but working with post-mastectomy cover ups was the next level. The strength of the experience blew me away.
Every day I give people the power to reclaim their bodies. From the very first point of contact, I let the client know that I am here for them and I'll treat them with empathy, compassion and professionalism from start to finish.
What do you want to achieve with your tattoo?
I like to do thorough in-person consultations if geography allows, or email and telephone consultations if it doesn't. We discuss medical history as well as detailed design ideas.
One of the most important things to me is 'who is this person?’, ‘what do they want to achieve here visually and emotionally?'. By getting to know each other first, we can trust one another and work together through the whole process with kindness and strength.
Answering your questions on mastectomy tattoos
1. Can you tattoo onto a breast reconstruction?
Yes. Most breast reconstructions are suitable for being tattooed. There are technical considerations for the tattoo artist, so make sure you find an artist who asks for an overview of your surgical history and a consultation. It’s important to have these steps to ensure you get the best possible results
2. Can you tattoo onto a scar?
Yes. Most types of surgical scars can be tattooed over. If an area of scarring is not suitable, a good specialised artist should always be honest with you, and will likely have some clever design trick up their sleeve that will work with your particular scar.
3. Is there a higher risk of infection or allergic reactions if you’ve had a mastectomy?
No. However, your body may be more delicate after undergoing breast cancer treatment and surgery. Therefore, talking through your health and working closely with your chosen artist is essential.
A tattoo is a wound, but if the procedure is performed in a hygienic manner with good aftercare there is little risk of infection or allergy. The most important thing is to trust your instinct. Take the time to see the studio and meet with your artist, ask questions, and if something doesn't feel right then keep on looking until you find the right studio for you.
You can read more about the importance of hygiene in a tattoo studio and things to look out for on Anna's blog.
4. If I’m unhappy with my nipple tattoo, can this be tattooed over?
Nipple tattooing refers to the micropigmantation and colouring that can be done post-surgery.
Yes. However, any unhappiness can be prevented by researching and choosing your artist or clinician carefully. There are many excellent tattoo artists available.
Whether you are planning a nipple tattoo or an artistic tattoo, it's important to look at the artist's portfolio carefully. Make sure to see healed examples of work as well as fresh examples of the sort of tattoo you are looking for.
Also, ask questions! Make sure you’re satisfied with their experience level and attention to detail.
5. What kind of design would you recommend for a mastectomy tattoo?
Your design should be personal to you. We are all unique and shaped by our experiences and things we love.
I like organic images like plants or flowers, especially for post-mastectomy tattoos. They are timeless, elegant and represent the growth of life.
Channel who you are – your inner fabulousness, strength and growth. By working with a tattoo artist who you trust, they will listen and help guide you. They’ll hold your hand as you work away together in comfortable silence.
You can find Anna's work on her instagram and contact her on her website.
Read our information on tattoos after breast cancer surgery