After Breast Reconstruction, How Long Do Nipple Tattoos Generally Last?

Following breast reconstruction after a mastectomy using an implant, I had my reconstructed nipple tattooed. A year later, it was totally faded and is now completely white. I am very self conscious about how it looks since it looks nothing like my "real" side. If I have it tattooed again, will the same thing happen? I just want to look normal, but if the same thing will happen again, I don't want to go through the pain and bother of another tattoo. Thank you for any help on this! Anne

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nipples long-lasting tattoo

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Anne in Midwest

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Breast reconstructions need maintenance

Anne, Some patients have more problems with their tattoos fading than others. Don't give up. Try another tattoo. Often you can have your tattoo done under local anesthesia (an injection of numbing medicine) or under topical anesthesia (cream applied before the procedure). It is a bother, but almost always worth it. Unfortunately everything (including breast reconstruction) needs maintenance. Time and gravity always eventually win and patients need... more

NIpple Tattoos Last Long After Recon?#breastreconstruction

Tattoos will fade over time. I have found that my patients who have their tattoos done by a specialist will have a more long lasting result. The person who does them for me in my office offers at least one touch up for a patient within a year for free. You may want to look for that situation.