ELLICOTT CITY — For many individuals, breast reconstruction surgery can be a lengthy and challenging experience that leaves behind visible reminders of their journey. However, a local cosmetic tattoo studio is helping women embrace their inner and outer beauty, turning scars into symbols of empowerment.
Glow Cosmetic Tattoo Studio in Ellicott City focuses on bringing out the beauty in clients while healing the mind, body, and soul through the art of tattoos. Owner Cameron Teeter understands the impact of breast cancer, having seen its effects on her own family. “Breast cancer is in my family. My grandmother was one of four daughters, and three of the four of them got breast cancer,” shared Teeter.
One of the studio's clients, Helene Rapaport of Baltimore City, underwent a double mastectomy after discovering a 98% chance of developing ovarian and breast cancer through her BRCA gene test. “They told me that it was going to happen, but we don’t know when,” Rapaport recalled. Refusing to wait for a cancer diagnosis, she took control of her health, opting for surgery to remove her ovaries and breasts.
While the surgery went smoothly, the aftermath left Rapaport feeling incomplete. “Yeah, I wanted to buy bras and pretty bras, and because of where everything is and the scarring I couldn’t do that,” she explained. The visible scars and the placement of one areola made it difficult for her to adjust to her new normal. To avoid feeling uncomfortable, she would tell people she didn’t know how to swim just to avoid wearing a bathing suit.
Determined to reclaim her confidence, Rapaport sought out Glow for a cosmetic tattoo adjustment. “We’re here at Glow to finish my journey,” she said. Teeter and her team specialize in restorative tattoos, addressing the needs of breast cancer survivors by providing them with cosmetic enhancements, including areola restoration, and helping them feel whole again.
Rapaport’s visit symbolizes more than just cosmetic enhancement; it’s a step toward self-acceptance and empowerment. “This is going to give me the opportunity to start dating again and getting out there,” she expressed with hope.
Teeter is dedicated to ensuring her clients walk away feeling beautiful. “This is for you. I want you to get out of the shower and look in the mirror and recognize that person that you remember yourself to be,” she emphasized.
The services offered at Glow are not limited to those affected by breast cancer. Women seeking to enhance their appearance through breast augmentation, those with scars from other incidents, or individuals looking for eyebrow and lip coloring are also welcomed.
For Helene and many others, the journey does not end with surgery but continues with a commitment to self-love and empowerment. “It’s not the outside that’s important; it’s about the journey,” she said, reflecting on her experiences. “When you first hear the words breast cancer or BRCA, you think, ‘now what?’ I refuse to say ‘now what’; instead, I’m focused on what’s next.”
As Glow Cosmetic Tattoo Studio continues to help women navigate this challenging journey, it becomes a sanctuary where healing occurs, not just through art, but also through connection, support, and the rediscovery of personal beauty.