If one or both of your nipples were removed when you had a mastectomy, you can in most cases choose to have surgery, reconstruction tattooing, or both to recreate the nipple and the areola (the dark area around the nipple).

Some people find that having their nipples reconstructed or tattooed is an important final step in the breast reconstruction process. Others don’t and that choice is completely up to you, and you can take your time to decide. Plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting at least 4 months after breast reconstruction surgery to have nipple reconstruction or nipple tattoos. This will give your breasts time to heal and settle into a final position. It’s also best to wait until you’re fully satisfied with the rest of your reconstruction.