Every scar is a part of your journey. After surviving cancer, scars from surgery, mastectomies, and chemo ports are a symbol of the strength you exhibited during the most trying time of your life. However, these scars can also bring up painful memories of what you went through. This is where tattoos come in. Tattoos are a way to turn the ugly experience of cancer into something beautiful. They allow you to reclaim your skin after cancer treatments. Chemo port tattoos are a great way to express yourself and tell your story the way you want to. Keep reading for tips, advice, inspiration, and 23 beautiful chemo port tattoo ideas!
Chemo Port Placement
A chemo port is a device inserted under the skin that allows for treatments like blood transfusions and chemotherapy. While there are a couple places where chemo ports can be placed, they are most commonly placed on the side of the upper chest, just under the collarbone. Special t-shirts from Cardani have zippers to allow for easy access to your chemo port during treatments.
After chemo treatments are completed, there will be a scar left where the chemo port was inserted. Over time, the scar will become less visible. If desired, a tattoo may be able to cover up a chemo port scar.
Tattooing Over Scar Tissue
When you're getting a chemo port tattoo, it's important to remember that you will be tattooing over scar tissue. It is possible to tattoo over scars, but it is more difficult than tattooing over non-scarred skin. Here are a few things to keep in mind before getting your tattoo:
- Your chemo port scar must be fully healed before getting a tattoo. A scar can take up to a year to fully heal, however many tattoo artists require an even longer wait before tattooing over a scar. Make sure to use sunscreen on your scar and keep it moisturized with a sensitive-skin, fragrance-free lotion such as Resta Lite or Alra Therapy Lotion to help it heal more smoothly and quickly.
- Tattooing over scar tissue is painful. It is more painful to tattoo over scarred skin, so getting a chemo port tattoo might not be the best option if you're sensitive to pain.
- Several touch ups may be needed to help the ink hold. Scar tissue does not take ink as readily as unscarred skin. This can make the process take longer and require return visits to the tattoo parlor.
- Get a consultation. Choose an experienced tattoo artist and get a consultation before actually getting your tattoo. The artist will be able to help you design the right tattoo for you and tell you what is and isn't possible in regards to tattooing over your scar.
- Manage your expectations. It's important to go into this process with an open mind and an understanding of the process. Realize that you will probably not be able to completely hide your scar and some designs will not work. If you know what to expect, you can come out of the process with a tattoo you adore.
Chemo Port Tattoo Design Tips: What Tattoo Should I Get?
The tattoo you choose is a totally personal decision. Here are a few ideas to help you along the way while you're designing your tattoo:
Something that follows the curvature of your scar and collarbone
Keep in mind that it may be hard for a tattoo artist to cover up your scar entirely, as it can be difficult to tattoo over scar tissue. For this reason, you should consider incorporating the shape of your scar into the tattoo design. You should also account for the curvature of your body where the scar is located. In most cases, the scar will be near the collarbone. Following the natural curvature of the collarbone will give you a flattering design that works with your body and your scar, instead of against it. Some ideas might be:
- A flower or leaf with a stem
- An infinity sign
- A quote in cursive script
- A fish with a flowing tail
Something that is meaningful to your journey through cancer and your personal beliefs
- Religious symbols
- Butterflies - Symbolize rebirth, growth, transformation, and new beginnings
- Birds - Symbolize freedom and strength
- Significant dates
- Awareness Ribbons
Something that you like
- Your favorite flower
- Your favorite animal
Take color into consideration
If you are trying to cover up your scar, take the color of the tattoo into account. A tattoo in colors that are similar to your scar will better disguise your scar. If your goal is totally conceal your scar, think of designs that incorporate pinks and reds.
23 Chemo Port Tattoos
1. Pink Ribbon Jellyfish
Source: @amyblacktattoos on Instagram
@jessummcaa
2. Petite Blue Bird on Branch
Source: @bluebirdinked on Instagram
3. Cute Pink Flower
Source: @kas_kb29 on Instagram
4. Realistic Butterfly
Source: @knittingceliac on Instagram
5. Classic Cross
Source: @carolina_photo_cafe on Instagram
6. Wave Heart
Source: @auraartandink on Instagram
7. Blue Flower with Vines
Source: @auraartandink on Instagram
8. Bloom Anyway
Source: @cclaudyah ; @missloretattoos on Instagram
9. Phoenix with Flowers
Source: @knight.tattoo on Instagram
10. Bouquet with Quote
Source: @hollyxeden on Instagram
11. Colorful Monarch Butterflies
Source: @amandaboiktattoos on Instagram
12. Cancer Awareness Ribbon
Source: @captainkattats on Instagram
13. Hummingbird with Plumeria Flowers
Source: @capriceink on Instagram
14. Adorable Sea Turtle
Source: @inkwellcolch on Instagram
15. Yin Yang Koi Fish
Source: @laureska.tattoo on Instagram
16. Cherry Blossom
Source: @brushinktattoo on Instagram
17. Double Sunflower
Source: @ameliavogan on Instagram
18. Sweet Pea Blossom
Source: @catherine_alice_ on Instagram
19. Feather
Source: @nayan_hz on Instagram
20. Daisy with Ladybug
Source: @nkewkba_tattoos on Instagram
21. Delicate Orange Branch
Source: @meat_at_animalhousetat2 on Instagram
22. Flower Vines
Source: @ameliceart on Instagram
23. Traditional Sparrow
Source: @drztattoos on Instagram
Finding a Tattoo Artist
Now that you've decided to get a chemo port tattoo, it's time to find a tattoo artist. Here are our tips for finding the right tattoo artist for you:
Look for an experienced artist
Tattooing over scar tissue is more difficult than tattooing over unscarred skin, so it's important to look for an experienced artist, especially an artist who is experienced in tattooing over scars. While it will likely be more expensive, the end result will be better.
Check out instagram to find artists you like
Different tattoo artists have different styles. It's important to find an artist whose style is in line with what you want. You can search by hashtags like "#HoustonTattooArtist" to view the work of artists in your city and see what speaks to you.
Don't limit yourself
You don't have to be restricted by tattoo artists near you, especially if you live in a small community. Keep in mind that tattoos are permanent and will be on your body forever. If there is an artist you love who isn't near you, consider traveling to them if possible. However, do keep in mind that return appointments may be necessary.
What do you think of these gorgeous tattoos? Do you have a chemo port scar tattoo? Let us know in the comments below!
If you or someone you love is going through chemo treatments, check out our selection of fashionable chemo headwear.