Surgery

Patient information for Translation

Micropigmentation (medical tattooing)

Introduction

This leaflet provides information about micropigmentation (medical tattooing). It is important that you take time to read this leaflet before you sign the consent form to agree for your treatment to go ahead.

What is micropigmentation?

Micropigmentation is a process which involves implanting coloured pigment into the surface layer of the skin to create a semi-permanent colour using very fine sterile needles. The procedure is used to complement plastic surgical reconstructions of different parts of the body and to give as natural a result as possible, e.g. Nipple Areola Complex Tattooing.

What happens before the procedure?

You will be asked to attend the clinic for an initial consultation about the procedure. Digital images maybe be taken before and after the procedure. 

This is also an opportunity for you to talk to the clinical nurse specialist about any concerns that you may have to ensure that you are fully informed before your treatment begins.

Where is the procedure carried out?

The procedure is carried out in the Outpatient Department in clinic 3, Ground Floor South Tower, Royal London Hospital.

Will I need anesthetic?

You will be given a prescribed anesthetic cream that will be applied half an hour before the procedure if and when required.  It is vital that you attend the clinic an hour early so that the anesthetic can be applied.

How long will the procedure take?

The clinical nurse specialist will discuss the length of your specific procedure.  Most procedures will take between 20 to 40 minutes to complete.

What should I expect after the procedure?

The treated skin area may swell or show redness and the colour will appear darker and more intense.  This will last for several days.  If you find any lymphatic fluid or blood weeping, you can gently clean the area with gauze soaked in normal saline or cooled boiled water.  These symptoms will subside within a week depending on your skin sensitivity.  Complete healing can take up to six weeks whilst the pigment in the skin matures and the true colour emerges.

Everyone’s skin type is different so a repeat procedure may be required after six weeks.

Are there any risks?

Micropigmentation is a straight forward procedure; however there is a small risk of infection. It is important you follow the aftercare instructions given to you following the initial procedure.  

When can I go home?

You can go home on the same day.

When can I resume my normal activities?

Generally, you can resume normal daily activities following the procedure.  The clinical nurse specialist will inform you when you can resume your work.  This will depend on the type of procedure that has been carried out.  It is recommended to not use your bra for the next 24 hours following procedure instead wear a loss t- shirt within this time to prevent irritation of the affected area.

For further information, you will also receive a leaflet explaining in detail the aftercare advice you will need to follow.

Will I have any follow up appointments?

You should also have a further appointment after six to eight weeks to see if the treatment has been successful.

Contact us

If you have any queries or concerns about the procedure, contact the Plastic Surgery Department on 020 3594 6668 (9am-5pm, Monday and Wednesday) or email us on BHNT.PlasticSurgery@nhs.net

Translation and interpreting services

If you do not speak English as a first language, use sign language (BSL) or have a learning difficulty, our in-house Bilingual Health Advocacy and Interpreting Service can help.

St Bartholomew’s, Mile End and The Royal London Hospitals
Telephone: 020 7377 7000 

Newham University Hospital
Telephone: 020 7476 4000 

Whipps Cross University Hospital
Telephone: 020 8539 5522 

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Our dedicated number is 18002 and then add in the number you are wanting to phone. It is available 24/7 for deaf people to access emergency services through interpreters across our hospitals. 

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Reference: BH/PIN/673

Publication date: Nov 2020

All our patient information leaflets are reviewed every three years.

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