Michelle Kolath-Arbel was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, leading to a one-sided mastectomy, which was followed by reconstructive breast surgery. After three operations, Michelle, like many survivors, was disappointed when she looked in the mirror and no longer saw her nipple. As she says, “It was like missing the topping on a cake – I was incomplete.”
She researched nipple replacement options, but couldn’t find one she liked. She didn’t feel ready for another round of intrusive reconstructive surgery. Nipple tattoos often fade after 18 months because the ink cannot contain iron, which would interfere with follow-up MRIs. Existing nipple prostheses were not suitable for her needs. She wanted the look and feel of a real nipple.
So Michelle decided to create a better artificial nipple. She launched Pink Perfect, an Israeli-based company that produces realistic, custom and ready-made adhesive silicone nipples for women who have undergone unilateral or bilateral mastectomies. Each style comes in eight different color variations of brown and pink. They are waterproof and can be worn in the shower, swimming pool or ocean.
“I got my self-confidence back,” says Michelle, and others agree, if the numerous testimonials on her website are any indication.
“They arrived like a box of chocolates – six little pink pieces of perfection. Seeing a complete breast in the mirror has made the most incredible difference. I look and feel whole again, which has translated to improvements in other areas of my life,” a customer named Linda wrote.
For more information, visit pink-perfect.com.
