Breast cancer treatment can permanently change the way your body looks. Scars from radiation or surgery can change the shape of the breasts. If you've had a mastectomy, you may have opted for a flat chest with a scar after the procedure. Or maybe you got reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy that left you with breasts but no nipples.
You may want to celebrate the end of treatment with a survivor tattoo. Many breast cancer survivors feel empowered by choosing a design to mark their bodies. The tattoo is a choice you can make for your body after cancer forced hard choices on you.
Some breast cancer survivors choose to get tattoos where people can see them. They might get a meaningful quote or a pink ribbon for breast cancer awareness. Others get tattoos closer to their breasts. Mastectomy tattoos that cover or highlight scars can be an artistic reminder of how far you have come as a survivor.
Some tattoos are more practical. If a mastectomy and reconstruction have left you without nipples, you can get nipples tattooed on your new breasts. Some tattoo artists are highly skilled at creating 3D effects that make nipples that look realistic and beautiful.
It's safe for cancer survivors to get tattooed if they want. There are no additional health risks to getting a tattoo after breast cancer treatment. If you've had radiation treatment, talk to your doctor about when you can get a tattoo. Radiation can make your skin more prone to infection, so you may need to wait a few months.
Make sure you pick a reputable tattoo artist who follows healthy and safe best practices. All tattoos have a risk of infection as you heal. Make sure to keep your new tattoo clean as it heals, especially if your immune system is weakened from treatment.
If you aren't ready to commit to a permanent tattoo, you can find plenty of options for high-quality temporary tattoos. Express yourself however you want and change it up when the temporary ink fades.
