She creates new nipples with needle and paint

-Having to have surgery to remove a breast is life changing. My work is not just limited to nipple pigmentation. It's about regaining hope and a sense of wholeness and identity, says assistant nurse Victoria Bellman in the surgeon's office at Hudiksvall Hospital.

Patients first get a new breast with nipple through plastic surgery. Victoria Bellman then takes over, and the color and shape of the nipple and areola are determined in collaboration with the patient. Then you get pigmentation. The patient then returns for correction and to fill in more colors.

– It is important for patients to feel involved in the decision-making process regarding nipple size, shape, and color. I tell my patients that I can make no guarantees of a perfect result or an exact copy of the other nipple. Skin is a living substance and pigments vary depending on skin types, says Victoria Bellman.

Easier for patients

Previously, patients were referred to the Uppsala region for pigmentation. This is no longer necessary as the treatment can now be carried out in the surgeon's office at Hudiksvall Hospital.

– When we brought a plastic surgeon to Hudiksvall, the idea was born that we should bring patients here and perform nipple pigmentation at home. After a study visit in Uppsala, I thought it sounded interesting and I had the opportunity to get an education, says Victoria Bellman.

Being able to reconstruct the nipple, which is called areola pigmentation, is an important part of the surgeon's work.

– We are very happy that we can offer areola pigmentation in the Gävleburg area because it is valuable for our patients, says Linda Knutson-Freud, Operations Manager at the surgeon.

– So far, I have treated eight patients and there are still more to wait. The most rewarding thing is helping patients and seeing them feel whole again. It's an incredibly rewarding job, says Victoria Bellman.