Medical Tattooing Portsmouth

This is specialist work carried out with care, precision and a deep understanding of what you have been through. Vanessa Shaw, our cosmetic and medical tattooing specialist with over 18 years of experience, offers areola reconstruction and scar camouflage at Changes Clinic Portsmouth.

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Results Immediate
Downtime Very low
Duration Several years
Procedure time 1 to 3 hours
Anaesthetic Topical
From £300

What is medical tattooing?

Medical tattooing, also called paramedical tattooing, uses specialist pigments applied to the skin to restore a natural appearance after surgery, injury or trauma. It is not a cosmetic treatment in the conventional sense. For many patients, it is the final step in a long process of recovery.<br><br>At Changes Clinic Portsmouth, Vanessa Shaw carries out two forms of medical tattooing: areola reconstruction and scar camouflage.

Areola reconstruction

If you have had a mastectomy, medical tattooing can restore the appearance of a realistic areola and nipple. The technique uses carefully matched pigments to recreate colour, tone and dimension. Vanessa works with each patient individually to match the result to their natural skin tone, creating an appearance that looks genuine rather than applied. This form of medical tattooing Portsmouth patients seek is often a deeply personal milestone. Many describe the consultation and treatment as an important part of feeling whole again.

Scar camouflage

Scar camouflage uses pigment to blend the skin tone of a scar with the surrounding area, making it significantly less noticeable. It is suitable for scars from surgery, burns or physical trauma, whether on the face or the body. The pigment is matched to your natural skin tone and layered carefully to create a result that reads as normal skin in everyday light.

Testimonials

What our patients say

RAD

2 months ago

Very happy with my consultation. I got the answers I was hoping for and I will soon be booking myself in for a quick and easy mole/sun spot removal. I now have a new understanding of what the problem is and what has caused it. Thank you.

josephine C.

3 months ago

Even though I couldn't have the treatment I wanted Carly was very helpful and knowledgeable

Kelvin W.

3 months ago

I went for an ultrasound scan due the NHS appointment waiting time was a longtime away, the service I recieved from Andrea was excellent, second to none, Andrea explained everything including the results of the scan straight afterwards.

Jay

3 months ago

I’ve suffered with rosacea for several years and have tried all sorts of creams, skincare routines and products, but nothing really made a lasting difference. Looking after my skin and being mindful of my diet definitely helps to keep it under control, but IPL at Changes Clinic has made the biggest difference by far. The redness in my face has reduced so much, and even when I do get a flare up, it’s nowhere near as bad as it used to be because the underlying redness has improved so much. Everyone at Changes Clinic has been friendly, professional and really knowledgeable. They’ve always taken the time to answer any questions and made me feel comfortable throughout the whole process. I’d happily recommend Changes Clinic to anyone who suffers from rosacea and is thinking about IPL. It’s made a huge difference to my skin and has given me so much more confidence.

Lee B.

3 months ago

It’s the first time I’ve done something like this. What a lovely place & people. Very kind, polite & efficient. Very impressed with my procedure, obviously, it hasn’t healed yet, but will definitely be back for more treatment & also considering other treatments too. Well impressed and everything was explained as the treatment was carried out, pleasantly surprised, thank you so much for taking such good care of my skin. Lee B

duncan T.

5 months ago

Changes Clinic provides a super professional and very competitively priced service, I’ve just completed two sessions to have some skin lesions removed and I was very well looked after ands made to feel at ease with the whole process. I would recommend them for anybody needing similar services.

Maria K.

5 months ago

Absolutely exceptional service and results. This clinic combines professionalism, expertise, and luxury perfectly. The team are incredibly skilled and attentive, and every visit feels calm, personalised, and premium.

Alex G.

5 months ago

I had PRP Hair Treatment, with Sumayiah, she is very friendly, she takes the time to explain the procedure and really makes sure to focus on target areas. I have had 2 treatments so far and I already see a difference in my hair density and texture. She can use a gun or syringe, the syringe goes deeper and achieves better results, so its worth asking for the syringe method. I combined my PRP with Calecim serum and that gives an even greater boost. So I recomend you sign up and ask for a booking with Sumaiyah, you'll be very happy that you did..

Alex G.

5 months ago

I had PRP Hair Treatment, with Sumayiah, she is very friendly, she takes the time to explain the procedure and really makes sure to focus on target areas.I have had 2 treatments so far and I already see a difference in my hair density and texture. She can use a gun or syringe, the syringe goes deeper and achieves better results, so its worth asking for the syringe method.I combined my PRP with Calecim serum and that gives an even greater boost. So I recomend you sign up and ask for a booking with Sumaiyah, you'll be very happy that you did..

Darcy S.

6 months ago

Been to changes this morning, staff was very welcoming and I had the perfect treatments. Will be returning!♥️

Laurie loz L

6 months ago

Very good, the massage lady knows what's she is doing. Definitely worth a visit or 3

Emile J.

7 months ago

One of the best decisions I’ve made for my skin! The treatments are effective, safe, and handled by experienced professionals. I struggled with acne for years, and after visiting this clinic, I finally see clear and healthy skin. The staff always follows up after treatments, which shows how much they care about their clients’ progress. Their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction is truly impressive. I would highly recommend this clinic to anyone who wants real results and excellent service.

Aitch O.

8 months ago

Lovely relaxed atmosphere with great staff. My lazer hair removal was undertaken by two very capable proffessional young women Kelly and Surmaiyah. Both demonstrate constant care and ensure this not always comfortable experience is as pleasant as possible. The facility is immaculately clean and there is excellent visitor free parking available. I have no hesitation in recommending the clinic to others and whilst I can only comment on the treatments I have received to date I will be availing myself of some of the others services offered.

Pamela K.

8 months ago

I am so glad I visited the Changes Clinic today for an upper abdominal ultrasound. I was a nervous wreck as I have a bit of a phobia of scans & Andrea was just brilliant with me. So reassuring, she went above & beyond with careful detailed descriptions, even went over some areas twice just for extra reassurance. I left smiling with a huge weight lifted off my shoulders. I have already recommended to a friend & highly recommend to anyone experiencing symptoms they’d like some extra peace of mind for. Was also really easy to book & communication excellent throughout. Thank you so much!!

Mayumi F.

8 months ago

I’ve been attending changes for facial hair removal for about 6 months now and I can honestly say it’s been one of the best and easiest experiences for me. Sumaiyah has been amazing through every step. From consultation to our current progress. She shows great professionalism, compassion, consideration -especially when I’m having a bad pain tolerance day- and is very meticulous in which the results are to show for it. Every appointment I get a little nervous and Sumaiyah has always put my nerves at ease and worked at a pace that suits me and my needs. I’m very thankful to work with her and be attending changes clinic. I would recommend their treatment. The staff are very welcoming. Adriana Verrier :) .

Mayumi F.

8 months ago

Monnia L.

9 months ago

Andrea provides a highly professional and exceptional service. With over 20 years NHS experience you are in good hands. Any issues and their significance are explained in full. A highly recommended health screening and well-being service.

Charlie Jane Y.

10 months ago

I had an amazing experience — very friendly and welcoming from the moment I arrived. She was super helpful, incredibly knowledgeable, and truly professional throughout. She made me feel completely at ease. Such a down-to-earth lady that you can feel genuinely comfortable with. Her prices are so reasonable and very affordable too. I highly recommend Andrea

Garry H.

2 years ago

Chloe was very well informed and helpful. There was probably too much information to absorb in the time span, and more published literature would be helpful (FAQs, prices, offers, medical considerations etc)

Linda D.

2 years ago

Such wonderful staff. Professional, yet friendly to keep any worries at bay. Thank you all for being so amazing and supportive!! Linda & Pippa Docherty

stephen G.

2 years ago

Great work on my lipoma. Can’t remember the ladies name. Naomi or Natasha? Was lovely. How is she a grandmother???

Karen F

2 years ago

A warm and friendly welcome at this beautiful clinic. Practitioners were excellent, explaining the treatment and after care and putting me at complete ease. I’m looking forward to seeing the results of my first Focus Dual Radio Frequency Needling treatment. Thank you Changes!

Taya

2 years ago

Lovely experience! The staff were friendly and helpful. They listened to me about what I wanted and answered all my questions. Naomi was very professional and I was very happy with my consultation. I look forward to returning for my treatment.

Medical tattooing at Changes Clinic is carried out exclusively by Vanessa Shaw. With over 18 years in the beauty sector and a career in cosmetic and medical tattooing begun at the Changes Clinic academy, Vanessa approaches each patient with patience and sensitivity. A consultation always takes place before any treatment, giving you the opportunity to discuss your history, your goals and any concerns at your own pace.

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Common questions

What is areola reconstruction and who is it suitable for?

Areola reconstruction is a form of medical tattooing Portsmouth specialists use to restore the appearance of an areola and nipple following a mastectomy. It is suitable for patients who have completed their surgical recovery and want to restore a natural-looking appearance. Vanessa will review your skin, discuss the outcome you want and plan the pigment match before any work begins.

Can any scar be treated with scar camouflage?

Most stable, fully healed scars can be treated, including those from surgery, burns or trauma. Scars that are still raised, red or actively changing are not yet ready for camouflage. During your consultation, Vanessa will assess the scar, its age and its texture to confirm whether treatment is appropriate and what outcome is realistic.

How long do the results of medical tattooing last?

Results typically last several years, though this varies depending on your skin type, sun exposure and aftercare. Most patients return for a top-up appointment after a few years to refresh the colour and maintain the result. A follow-up appointment is included for areola reconstruction to refine the outcome once the skin has settled.

Does medical tattooing hurt?

A topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the area before treatment to minimise discomfort. Most patients describe the sensation as mild pressure. The level of sensitivity varies by area and individual, and Vanessa works at a pace that keeps you comfortable throughout.