Revolutionizing Post-Mastectomy Care: A New Approach in Japan

On July 31, 2025, the Ginza Iglad Clinic, operated by the Sogakai Medical Corporation in Tokyo, will host a pioneering workshop aimed at enhancing post-mastectomy appearance care. This initiative is supported by the Hawaii PMU Academy (HPA), which plays a crucial role in introducing advanced techniques to medical professionals dedicated to helping women regain their appearance after breast cancer surgery. The three-day educational program will focus on areola reconstruction, providing participants with not only the technical skills but also the ethical framework necessary for care that respects and uplifts patient dignity.

Background of the Event

The rising incidence of breast cancer in Japan has sparked a growing interest in appearance care, which directly impacts patients' quality of life post-surgery. Unfortunately, options for reconstructive procedures for the nipple and areola are often not covered by health insurance, leaving many patients without vital support. According to data from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, approximately 35% of individuals who have experienced breast cancer report psychological distress due to changes in their appearance, exacerbated by limited recovery options available to them.

This workshop is designed to directly address these gaps by proposing innovative solutions through medical art makeup. By offering skills that cater to patients' desires for their bodies, the program plans to enhance the clinical support structure.

Details of the Workshop

The practical workshop is aimed at medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, who have an interest in areola and nipple art makeup. It will take place from July 30 to August 1, 2025. Renowned instructor Ikumi Tsukiji, who has extensive clinical experience, will demonstrate reconstruction techniques pioneered by Sherah Juarez, a leading figure in the U.S. art makeup community. This session will emphasize the importance of providing care that aligns with the lives and emotions of patients, rather than simply teaching technical skills.

- Event Name: Post-Mastectomy Appearance Care Practical Workshop (Hosted by Hawaii PMU Academy)
- Dates: July 30 (Wednesday) to August 1 (Friday) 2025
- Location: Days 1 and 3 at H Beauty Clinic (Chiba Prefecture, Ichikawa); Day 2 at Ginza Iglad Clinic (Tokyo, Chuo Ward)
- Target Audience: Doctors and nurses
- Content: Lectures and practical demonstrations
- Instructors: Ikumi Tsukiji (Founder of Anfe Areola Care Academy), Heisei Hideko (Head of HPA), and Sherah Juarez (US Art Makeup Leader)
- Medical Supervision: Dr. Masato Inui (Director of Ginza Iglad Clinic)

Purpose of the Event

Post-mastectomy appearance care is essential for supporting patients' dignity and self-esteem and goes beyond mere aesthetics. Ginza Iglad Clinic aims to provide care that transcends the limitations of the healthcare system, offering personalized medical support that meets individuals' needs. This initiative represents a new model for integrating insurance-covered and private medical practices, addressing challenges that current systems fail to manage adequately. By presenting medical art makeup as a clinical practice, the program seeks to empower patients both emotionally and physically.

Future Prospects

With this workshop as a launchpad, the clinic is looking to partner with university hospitals and cancer centers to establish specialized outpatient appearance care services. The intent is to explore comprehensive support frameworks, even in areas that are typically not covered by insurance. The program aims to incorporate patient quality-of-life evaluation metrics, such as Breast Q, into its framework. Moreover, plans for the establishment of an online salon will ensure ongoing communication with patients and healthcare professionals, fostering a transparent community focused on sharing knowledge, advancements, and challenges in this vital area.

Introductions

- Hideko Heisei: Head of Hawaii PMU Academy, focused on building educational frameworks for medical art makeup in the U.S. and Japan, emphasizing ethics and ongoing support for care practitioners.
- Ikumi Tsukiji: Top instructor at Anfe Areola Care Academy, combining practical nursing experience with advanced reconstruction techniques.
- Sherah Juarez: Owner of Ink Boutique Houston, with over 23 years of experience in art makeup and a commitment to integrating medical and cosmetic practices for breast reconstruction patients.
- Dr. Masato Inui: Director of Ginza Iglad Clinic, bridging gaps between public health policies and effective medical solutions for societal issues.

We invite media representatives to cover this significant initiative, helping to raise awareness about the importance of integrated care and support for women affected by breast cancer.

Contact: Ginza Iglad Clinic | Email: [email protected]