What is a 3D Medical Tattoo?

A 3D Medical Tattoo is a specialised paramedical procedure involving the implantation of pigment into the skin to recreate or enhance anatomical features, most commonly the nipple and areola following breast surgery.

This technique utilises advanced shading and colour theory to create the illusion of depth and realism, producing a highly detailed 3D effect that mimics the appearance of a natural nipple-areola complex without creating physical projection.

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Will I require medical clearance to proceed with a Medical Tattoo?

If you underwent surgery within the past 2 years, you are required to provide a medical clearance letter from your doctor or surgeon prior to your appointment. Your appointment will not proceed without this letter.

If you have been referred by one of the surgeons listed on the Referring Surgeons page, you do not need to provide a separate medical clearance letter, provided your referral confirms suitability for treatment.

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How many sessions will I need?

You will require two sessions. In some cases, a third session may be recommended depending on the number and type of surgical scars and how well your skin retains pigment after Session 1.

Session Overview:

Session 1: Base colour, symmetry and initial design are established. 

Session 2: Final refinements are made, including advanced 3D shading and contouring.

 

What is the timeline for this service?

Session 1: Approximately 1.5-2 hours

Session 2: Approximately 1–1.5 hours

Each session allows time for consultation, design, pigment matching and aftercare guidance.

 

What should I wear to my appointments?

You are welcome to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. However, for 3D Nipple & Areola Tattooing or Areola Repigmentation, please wear a comfortable bra or crop top to help keep your dressings securely in place following treatment.

You will need to wear your bra or crop top throughout the day and overnight, including while sleeping for the first 7 days following treatment.

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Is the procedure painful?

Discomfort varies between individuals, but the procedure is generally well tolerated. Medical Tattooing is minimally invasive and many clients experience little discomfort during treatment.

If required, a topical anaesthetic can be applied during the procedure to help manage discomfort.

 

What payment methods are accepted for the deposit and each treatment session?

Card payments

Direct bank transfer

Cash

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What if I have health or skin conditions?

Please advise me in advance if any of the following apply to you, as these factors may affect your suitability for treatment:

• Skin conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, active infections, open wounds, irritation or raised moles in the treatment area

• Scarring: Keloid or other problematic scarring, particularly scars that have caused concerns or complications following surgery

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Heart conditions

• Diabetes

• Currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Any medical condition or medication that may affect healing or increase the risk of infection

 

Can I have injectables, laser or skin treatments before or after my Medical Tattoo?

Please advise me if you have recently undergone, or are planning any laser treatments, chemical peels, skin needling or other skin procedures affecting the breast or treatment area.

These treatments may cause irritation or affect healing so appropriate spacing between procedures may be required.

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Can I have treatment if I'm using Roaccutane or Retinoids/Vitamin A?

If you are currently taking or have recently taken Roaccutane (oral isotretinoin), please advise me before booking so that your suitability for treatment can be assessed.

If you use topical retinoids or Vitamin A products on the treatment area, please also let me know. These may cause skin irritation or sensitivity and treatment timing will depend on your individual circumstances.

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Can I use fake tan or have sun exposure before my Medical Tattoo?

Avoid fake tan and sunburn for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.

These can alter the skin's natural tone and impact accurate pigment colour matching. Sunburn can also irritate the skin.

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What if I've previously had a tattoo in the same area?

If you are requesting a refresh or correction of a previous tattoo done by another artist, please email or text a clear close-up photograph of the tattoo in advance.

The area will need to be assessed to determine whether correction or enhancement is possible or whether removal may need to be considered.

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Can I bring a support person to my appointment?

Support people are welcome, provided their presence does not interfere with treatment, hygiene requirements or the privacy and comfort of the client.

If you wish to bring a support person, please advise me in advance.

Children under 16 are not permitted in treatment areas as part of ProCosmediq's infection-control and treatment-room policies.

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What happens if I wish to reschedule an appointment?

If you need to reschedule any appointment, please contact me as soon as possible.

Please note that Session 2 must be completed within 6 to 8 weeks of your initial treatment.

If you are unable to attend Session 2 within this timeframe, your next appointment will be classified as a refresh appointment and charged at the applicable refresh rate.

Please refer to the Pricing Page for further information.

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What is your Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy?

As appointment availability is limited, I kindly ask that you provide as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Deposits

Deposits are non-refundable as they represent time and preparation reserved for your appointment, subject to your rights under Australian Consumer Law.

More than 48 hours notice

You may reschedule your appointment to another date or time at no additional cost, subject to availability.

Less than 48 hours notice

Your deposit will be forfeited, and a new deposit will be required to secure another appointment, subject to availability and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.

Please refer to the Terms & Conditions for full booking information.

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Is this treatment the same as traditional body art tattoos?

Both traditional body art and Medical Tattooing involve implanting pigment into the skin. However, Restorative Medical Tattooing focuses on recreating or enhancing anatomical features through specialised pigment matching, shading and design techniques.

Medical Tattoos are permanent, although their appearance may soften and fade over time, and maintenance/refresh appointments may be required.

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How often do I need a refresh appointment?

A refresh appointment may be considered from around 12 months, depending on how the skin retains pigment, lifestyle and environmental factors.

A refresh generally involves one appointment.

If the pigment has faded significantly, an additional session may be required to restore the desired colour and definition.

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How long does the tattoo last?

Medical Tattoos are permanent; however, the appearance of the pigment will gradually soften and fade over time.

The degree and rate of fading vary depending on skin characteristics, pigment retention, sun exposure and other individual factors.

Some clients may enjoy their results for several years before choosing a refresh appointment.

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Do I need to buy anything for my aftercare?

You will be provided with a small pot of aftercare cream, sterile non-stick gauze pads (enough for the first day) and a detailed aftercare instruction sheet.

Please ensure you have additional sterile, non-stick gauze available at home, as you will need to change your dressings several times a day for the first 7 days following treatment.

You will need to wear a comfortable bra or crop top continuously throughout the day and overnight, including while sleeping for 7 days during the healing process.

The same aftercare protocol applies to your second session.

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Can I still shower, exercise, walk or swim after my tattoo?

For the first 7 days following treatment, you will need to avoid activities that may interfere with healing or increase the risk of infection.

During this time, please avoid:

• Direct shower water onto the treated area

• Strenuous exercise, including Gym, Pilates and yoga

• Swimming, baths, spas, saunas and steam rooms

• Activities that cause excessive sweating or friction around the treated area including brisk walking or prolonged walks.

These aftercare guidelines apply to both your first and second sessions.

The first 7 days are an important healing period. Excessive moisture, heat, friction and exposure to potentially contaminated water may increase the risk of infection and interfere with healing and pigment retention.

Protecting the treated area during this time helps support optimal healing and long-term results.​

 

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Who is this procedure suitable for?

This treatment may benefit individuals who have experienced:

• Unilateral or bilateral mastectomy

• Nipple reconstruction

• Breast reconstruction, including reductions or augmentations

• Nipple and areola changes following breast surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Suitability depends on individual healing, skin condition and medical history.

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Is the treatment claimable under Medicare or Private Health?

Currently, this treatment is generally not claimable under Medicare or Private Health insurance when performed by a Medical Tattoo Specialist.

Eligibility may differ when treatment is performed by an appropriately qualified nurse or surgeon.

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What is the cost of treatment?

Please visit the Pricing Page for a full breakdown of fees, session inclusions and booking terms.

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What qualifications and professional memberships does ProCosmediq adhere to?

ProCosmediq is a council-licensed practice specialising exclusively in Restorative Medical Tattooing and operates in accordance with NSW Health regulations, infection-control requirements and clinical hygiene standards applicable to skin penetration procedures.

Founder Niki Cirillo is an International Board Certified Medical Tattoo Artist in Nipple & Areola Tattooing with the Alliance of Medical Tattooing (AMT).

ProCosmediq works closely with Breast, Oncoplastic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and hospital-based healthcare providers across NSW, supporting patients throughout their surgical and recovery pathway.