Cancer is responsible for 10 million deaths each year around the world, with New Zealand second only behind Australia for new cases.
It’s New Zealand’s biggest killer, responsible for around 1-in-3 recorded deaths in the country. Breast cancer is the third most common cancer in Aotearoa, taking the lives of around 600 women each year.
The good new is, breast cancer has one of the highest survival rates among cancers, with an with average 5-year survival rate for women with invasive breast cancer at 90%.
That doesn’t mean survivors come through unscarred.
Mastectomy tattoos
For many women, the only option is breast removal. A mastectomy or double mastectomy can leave emotional as well as physical scars, but many survivors are turning to tattoo artists to help.
For some women, getting a mastectomy tattoo gives them the chance to create something beautiful, reclaim their bodies, and can help them move forward after the physical and emotional trauma of breast cancer.
Many mastectomy tattoos feature feminine designs that follow the contour of the breast, but there are endless design options.
They can be large or small, and feature anything the client wants. Many women create their own designs and find something special to them.
Tattoo artists who specialize in mastectomy tattoos are able to sketch the survivor’s ideas and help design a flattering tattoo that fits their vision and body shape.
Feather Tattoo and traditional tattoo by Shane Wallin
The curvature of this tattoo gives the illusion of volume and depth, even though the chest is flat.
This tattoo has a traditional look with outlined waves, a sunset, and tropical flowers. The inspirational quote is a nice touch.
Colourful Flowers and Butterflies Tattoo
Colorful, vibrant, and feminine, this tattoo features pink flowers and various butterflies.
Check out Samantha Rae's work on instagram: @samrtattoo