As a Memphis-based nurse and para-medical tattoo artist, I have the honor of walking alongside people during some of the most vulnerable—and powerful—chapters of their lives. My name is Nicolette Tomblyn, and I am the owner and artist behind Sittin Pretty Ink.
I recently returned home to the Mid-South after completing my Advanced Areola Certification through the Sauler Institute of Tattooing, and I feel more called than ever to serve our Memphis community in a deeper, more meaningful way.
Para-medical tattooing is not about beauty trends.
It is about healing.
It is about dignity.
And it is about helping people feel like themselves again after their body has been through something life-changing.
Bringing advanced areola restoration back to Memphis
My advanced training took place at Penn’s Perlman Building for Advanced Medicine, one of the nation’s leading medical education environments. The Advanced Areola Certification program is widely recognized as one of the most comprehensive medical tattoo courses available today—specifically focused on realistic, three-dimensional areola tattooing.
The experience challenged me technically, artistically, and emotionally. Working in a medical setting reinforced something I have always believed: when medicine and artistry work together, the impact can be life-changing.
I want to give patients of the Mid-South more options and opportunity to choose their artist and how they want to proceed on their timeline. From community events to talking one on one with clients I want to connect, support, and educate those affected by medical conditions and surgical procedures.. My goal is to help close that gap in post-treatment care right here in Memphis.
What is para-medical tattooing—and who is it for?
Para-medical tattooing focuses on restorative and corrective tattoo techniques designed to improve the appearance of skin after medical procedures, injury, or skin conditions.
Some of the most meaningful services I provide include:
Areola reconstruction
Recreating the appearance of nipples and areolas following breast cancer surgery, mastectomy, reconstruction, or gender-affirming procedures.
Scar camouflage
Softly blending surgical scars, burn scars, self-harm scars, and accident-related scars into the surrounding skin tone to reduce visual contrast.
“Dry Needling” / Needling
Minimally invasive technique that helps reduce the appearance of scar may take several sessions for best results
- Collagen Remodeling: Dry needling stimulates collagen production, which can help in remodeling scar tissue, making it softer and more pliable.
- Enhanced Blood Flow: The technique increases blood circulation to the area, aiding in the healing process.
- Pain Relief: Many patients report reduced pain associated with scar tissue.
- Improved Mobility: By releasing tightness in the surrounding tissues, dry needling can enhance overall movement.
Every person’s skin, story, and healing journey is different. That is why every treatment I offer begins with a comprehensive consultation and an individualized plan.
Bridging the gap after treatment
As both a registered nurse and para-medical tattoo artist, I bring over a decade of clinical experience into every appointment. Formally on inpatient wound care team I understand wound healing, skin integrity, scar formation, and the importance of timing and medical clearance before performing restorative tattoo work.
But just as important as the medical side is how a person feels when they look in the mirror.
Confidence, self-identity, and emotional closure are powerful parts of recovery—and they deserve a place in the healing process.
A safe, personalized space for restoration
I am proud to work in partnership with Daniel Shay’s Salon Boutique Med Spa, where my clients receive care in a clean, professional, and welcoming environment.
At Sittin Pretty Ink, I specialize in:
- Areola/ 3D nipple restoration
- Scar camouflage
- Permanent makeup services such as lip blushing, brows, eyeliner
- Injectables neurotoxins & fillers
Every client receives one-on-one attention. No rushed appointments. No cookie-cutter approaches. Just compassionate, customized care designed around their goals and comfort level.
Why this work matters to me
I chose this path because I care deeply about people—not just how they look, but how they feel in their bodies.
That moment—when someone sees themselves reflected back in a way that feels familiar and affirming—is why I do this work.
My mission is to continue building awareness in Memphis and throughout the Mid-South about what para-medical tattooing can offer as part of post-treatment recovery. .
It belongs here, in our community.
If you or someone you love has undergone surgery, reconstruction, or medical treatment and is searching for restorative options, I would be honored to be part of that journey.
You can learn more about my services or schedule a private consultation with me at Sittin Pretty Ink in Cordova. Together, building a community of support and offering a path towards recovery.
This blog was written by Nicolette Tomblyn
My name is Nicolette Tomblyn. I’m originally from Chicago area and moved to Memphis in 2020. I’ve been a registered nurse for over 15 years and a mother of four. I love going to the gym, teaching and practicing yoga, baking, and spending time with my family and friends. I love catching Memphis community events during spring and summer out on the river.
