RECAP - April BRA Banter

BRA Groups

Read highlights from the April BRA Banter event!

Our April BRA Banter focused on Areola Tattoos with guest speaker Amanda Fraser. Check out some highlights from the event below.


Areola tattoos can have a positive psychological impact on survivors. They can restore symmetry, cover scars and improve the appearance of breasts. 


These are specialized, medical tattoos provided by people who have been trained to deal with skin that covers implants, radiated skin and lymphedema. 


Some key ideas Amanda focused on were:


  • There is limited downtime after the procedure- patients are advised to avoid swimming and sports bra’s/apparel that rub against the new tattoo.
  • Most tattoos last 3-4 years. 
  • Some but not all insurance companies cover the cost of areola tattoos.
  • Patients with radiated skin, thin skin tissue and lymphedema need to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 


Amanda is a nurse in the Vanderbilt Breast Center plastic surgery area. She performs this service on Friday’s only and has a waitlist, currently around 7 months.


She has provided the following websites of possible alternative providers in the Nashville area. 


  • Two reputable trainers that have a compiled list of their trainees:

https://www.areolarestorativetattoo.com/heartists

https://www.inkboutiquehouston.com/affiliate-map


  • Located in Nashville:

https://www.johannalynnnashville.com/

https://permanentmakeupnashvilletn.com/3d-areola/

http://www.goldenyetiart.com/index.html


By BRA Groups June 24, 2026
Life after a breast cancer diagnosis often comes with new questions about healing, wellness, and how to support your body moving forward. In this episode of BRA Banter, we sit down with Monica Guirguis, PharmD, founder of Full Body Pharmacy , for an insightful conversation about personalized care during and after cancer treatment. Monica shares her patient-centered approach to helping individuals navigate recovery, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all path to healing. Drawing on her expertise in functional and integrative pharmacy, she discusses how thoughtful supplementation, nutrition, movement, and lifestyle support can help survivors feel more empowered in their wellness journey. At BRA Groups, we know that survivorship is about more than completing treatment. It's about finding resources, support, and information that help you move forward with confidence and hope. Monica's compassionate approach offers practical guidance while honoring the unique experiences of every survivor. Post-Chemotherapy Support Considerations As discussed during the episode, Monica shared several common areas of nutritional support that may be considered after chemotherapy. Every individual's needs are different, and survivors should consult their healthcare team before starting any new supplement regimen. Common post-chemotherapy support considerations include: High-quality multivitamin Methylated B-complex vitamins Vitamin D3 + K Omega-3 fatty acids Magnesium (glycinate, threonate, or malate) High-quality probiotic support NAC (N-acetylcysteine) Oral or injectable glutathione when appropriate DIM (with oncologist approval for estrogen-related cancers) Curcumin Vitamin C and other antioxidants (timing matters during active treatment) Adequate protein intake based on individual needs A Note from Monica "You don't need all of these at once. They are listed in order of importance. Ideally, bloodwork should be completed before beginning supplementation, but many individuals recovering from chemotherapy may benefit from evaluating these areas with their healthcare team." Questions about the information shared in this episode can be directed to Monica at drmonica@fullbodypharmacy.com .  Watch the episode above to learn how personalized, whole-person care can support healing, strength, and wellness after treatment.
By BRA Groups April 6, 2026
Don’t miss an intimate recorded discussion with Luchi Ajoku, two-time breast cancer survivor and creator of Diary of A Breastie. Luchi shares the highs and lows of her journey, the lessons that kept her fighting, and what she has learned about the power of storytelling. In her own words, Luchi says, “before breast cancer, I was living but after breast cancer, I'm alive.” This is a must-listen for anyone seeking courage, community, and actionable support. Watch the session on April 15 and be encouraged by a fellow survivor who turned her pain into purpose.
By BRA Groups March 23, 2026
Thank you for joining us! Our 2026 session at Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee was an educational and empowering event focused on living well with lymphedema. Topics ranged from diagnosis through ongoing management, and provided helpful resources, practical guidance, and supportive connection. Check out some pictures from the great session!
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