Areola/Nipple Tattooing

Did you know that insurance is responsible for covering your nipple/areola tattoo?

This permanent paramedical procedure uses micro pigmentation to restore the natural beauty of your breasts. Breast reconstruction is an important part of the healing process, both physically and mentally following a mastectomy. While there have been medical advances and refinement of reconstruction techniques, 3D nipple tattooing can be an easy and safe completion to your surgery. 3D nipple tattooing post mastectomy is not only reconstructive, its restorative both physically and emotionally. The goal is to educate our clients on one main point,

"There are options, and you are entitled to them."

Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA)

The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA) is a federal law that provides protections to patients who choose to have breast reconstruction in connection with a mastectomy. If WHCRA applies to you and you are receiving benefits in connection with a mastectomy and you elect breast reconstruction, coverage must be provided for:

All stages of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy has been performed.
Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance; and
Prostheses and treatment of physical complications of all stages of the mastectomy, including lymphedema.

This law applies to two different types of coverage:

Group health plans (provided by an employer or union).
Individual health insurance policies (not based on employment). (1)

HOW SOON CAN I HAVE IT DONE?

The procedure can be started 12 weeks after surgery, or as approved by your physician. No sooner than 8 weeks.
WILL IT HURT?

There usually is not a lot of sensation left on the breast mound after surgery, but since every client is unique with different sensitivity levels, numbing agents are available to make the procedure more comfortable.
HOW MANY VISITS WILL IT TAKE?

Usually 1-2 procedures. This will depend on the condition of the skin and the amount of scar tissue.
WILL IT FADE? HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

Due to the lack of UV exposure, (in most cases) you may not have to have a refresh for 10 years or more.
IVE BEEN THROUGH A LOT, HOW HARD IS THE AFTERCARE?

After the procedure, the area is thoroughly cleansed and dried. A clear occlusive dressing called Tegaderm is placed over the treatment area. Tegaderm is a medical wound covering that will breath, but it is waterproof. You will keep this on for three days. On the third day, while in a warm shower, you will gently peel the Tegaderm away from your body. Once the area is dry you will apply the provide ointment until it is completely healed. Of course, a copy of after care will be sent home with you along with the technician's personal contact should you have any questions or concerns.
HOW WILL I PAY FOR MY TATTOOING SESSION?

While this is an out of pocket cost upfront. Derma-hue will provide a Letter of Medical Necessity and an Itemized Receipt. This receipt will include the technicians NPI number, treatment CPT codes, date of procedure, where it was performed. Most insurance companies do not have an issue with reimbursement, others my give pushback. If you are unsure, please reach out to your insurance company for clarification.