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Medical Tattooing

Discover the compassionate artistry of medical tattooing at Rose and Thorn, where healing and transformation take centre stage. Led by Melinda, our dedicated artist with a profound understanding of the emotional journey and trauma faced by those seeking closure on their gender affirmation or breast cancer journey, we offer a safe haven for reclaiming both body and spirit.

Melinda Owner of Rose and Thorn

At Rose and Thorn we create a space for you to feel the depth of this profound experience and transformation. We are here to honour your resilience and your journey and to create beauty that reflects your strength and human spirit. Melinda will use her expertise in 3D medical tattooing, to create a remarkable illusion of depth, shading, and texture, that will bring your medical tattoo to life. 

Melinda specialises in areola tattoos and nipple correction for breast cancer survivors, those seeking symmetry and/or for gender affirmation. She also tattoos realistic, permanent 3D belly buttons and finger/toe nails. 

Using a combination of meticulous technique and an innate understanding of the intricacies of the human form, Melinda artfully crafts each stroke to replicate the natural nuances of the area she is tattooing. With her skilled hand, she delicately blends pigments, shading, and highlights, resulting in a three-dimensional masterpiece that defies perception.

Medical Tattoo Specialist

Medical tattoo expert, Melinda, has undergone extensive training in the specialist field of medical tattooing. She is passionate about using her artistic ability, knowledge and training, to help celebrate the resilience and strength of others and to help them heal. Melinda created Rose and Thorn to be a safe haven and sanctuary for those who need it most and is determined to make a difference in the medical tattooing field. 

Melinda Rose Tattoos

What is Medical Tattooing?

Medical tattooing, also known as paramedical tattooing is a specialised technique that involves the application of pigment to the skin for various medical and cosmetic purposes. Unlike traditional tattoos that focus on artistic designs, medical tattooing aims to address specific medical or aesthetic concerns. This innovative approach is permanent and can help individuals who have undergone medical procedures, experienced trauma, or have certain medical conditions achieve natural-looking results that restore confidence and improve their quality of life.

At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio, we offer medical tattooing services to assist clients in enhancing their appearance and well-being. Melinda uses her expertise to create subtle and realistic outcomes, whether it's restoring the appearance of areolas after breast reconstruction or gender affirmation surgery, camouflaging scars, replacing missing toe nails and belly buttons, or helping individuals with conditions like vitiligo achieve a more even skin tone. If you're interested in exploring the benefits of medical tattooing, our compassionate team is here to guide you through the process and provide personalised solutions tailored to your needs. You can also read more about medical tattooing in our FAQs Page. 

1

Areola Tattoo

Using a combination of meticulous technique and an innate understanding of the intricacies of the human form, Melinda artfully crafts each stroke to replicate the natural nuances of a nipple. With her skilled hand, she delicately blends pigments, shading, and highlights, resulting in a three-dimensional masterpiece that reflects a realistic nipple and areola.

Melinda will assist you to choose between a range of colours and shapes to best suit your skin and preferences

2

Finger and Toe Nails

If you suffer from Anonychia, a condition where you are born without fingernails and toenails, or if you are simply missing a fingernail or toenail, Melinda can artfully create a permanent, medical tattoo that looks like a realistic nail, complete with a nail cuticle, nail fold, plate and nail matrix. 

Medical tattooing is a permanent tattoo procedure and Melinda can blend pigments to ensure your tattoo matches with your existing nail anatomy.

3

Belly Buttons

Many people are born without umbilicus, usually if they have suffered an umbilical hernia or perforation or have required abdominal surgery as an infant. There are also surgeries, such as abdominoplasty, that may be experienced later in life that can leave you without a belly button.

Melinda is able to create a 3D belly button using medical tattooing and can adjust the shape, size and appearance according to your individual needs. 

Medical Tattoo Toenail

Through the gentle strokes of the tattooing needles, the scars of the past become symbols of strength and resilience, while the canvas becomes a masterpiece of empowerment and healing

We value Trauma-Informed Care

At Rose and Thorn Tattoo Studio, we understand that the journey to healing after trauma or medical procedures is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Our approach to medical tattooing is rooted in trauma-informed care, a philosophy that recognizes and responds to the widespread impact of trauma on individuals' lives. We believe in fostering a safe, supportive, and empathetic environment where your emotional well-being is as important as the physical results.

Our Transformative Approach

Our Trauma-informed approach prioritises the following values:

Holding Hands

Empathy and Understanding

We acknowledge the experiences and emotions you bring to the process. Our team listens attentively, validating your feelings and concerns, and creating a space where you feel heard and respected.

Image by Darius Bashar

Sensitivity to Triggers

We are attuned to potential triggers that may arise during the process and take steps to minimise their impact. Your emotional well-being is our priority, and we adjust our approach to accommodate your needs.

Image by John Schnobrich

Choice and Control

You are an active participant in every decision. We collaborate with you, ensuring that you have autonomy over the procedures, designs, and timing, helping to regain a sense of control over your body.

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Holistic Support

Our goal is to support your overall well-being. Beyond the technical aspects of medical tattooing, we offer emotional support and resources to help you navigate your healing journey.

Image by Dave Lowe

Safety and Trust

Our studio is designed to promote a sense of safety and security. We prioritize your comfort and provide a soothing atmosphere to help ease any anxiety or stress related to the procedure.

Image by Ben Kolde

Ongoing Communication

We encourage open dialogue throughout the process. Your feedback is valued, and we continuously adapt our approach to ensure you feel empowered and respected.

3D Areola Tattoos


Areola tattooing is a specialised form of medical tattooing that aims to recreate or enhance the appearance of the areolas, which are the pigmented areas surrounding the nipples. This procedure is often sought by individuals who have undergone breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy or breast augmentation, as well as those who wish to alter the size, shape, or colour of their areolas for cosmetic reasons or gender affirmation. 

Areola Tattoo_edited

Book Online Today

Whether you're seeking scar camouflage, areola restoration, or addressing other concerns, our trauma-informed approach to medical tattooing is dedicated to helping you reclaim your confidence and renew your sense of self. Together, we embark on a path of healing, transformation, and empowerment. Your well-being is our priority, and we are honoured to be a part of your journey towards renewed self-assurance and inner strength.

Scar Cover-ups

Melinda not only specialises in medical tattooing, she also have extensive experience and a deep understanding of scar tissue and how to tattoo scarred skin, to transform scars into beautiful and meaningful designs. Whether you have surgical scars, injury-related scars, or scars from medical procedures, she will work closely with you to understand your vision and preferences. 

Empowerment Through Art:

Beyond the physical transformation, a scar cover-up tattoo holds emotional significance. It serves as a powerful symbol of resilience, strength, and the ability to overcome adversity. By choosing a scar cover-up tattoo, you are reclaiming control over your body and rewriting the narrative of your scars. Each design is a testament to your journey, honouring your experiences while showcasing your courage.

Collaboration and Customisation:

Your scar cover-up tattoo is a collaborative process. Melinda will take the time to understand your goals and preferences, ensuring that the final design not only conceals the scar but also resonates with your personality and story. Whether you envision a vibrant floral pattern, a symbolic image, or an abstract masterpiece, we tailor the design to reflect your individuality.

Gender Affirmation: 
Areola Tattooing

Every person has the right to live as their authentic self. 

Melinda specialises in gender affirmation medical tattooing. We can transform existing nipples and areolas, or create a new nipple and areola to reflect your individual preferences. 

Image by Aiden Craver

Contact Us

Shop 4/10475 New England Hwy, Highfields, QLD

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