When Bibi Pillet O’Connell first discovered medical tattooing, she had no idea it would become her life’s work. Initially a journalist, her journey took an unexpected turn when she began assisting her father, a veterinarian, in tattooing identification numbers on puppies. That early experience with precision and ink sparked something in her. “I was always artistic,” she says. “I loved calligraphy, colors, and design.” Later, after her children grew older, she trained in cosmetic tattooing, a field that eventually led her to specialize in medical tattooing for skin-related traumas such as scar camouflage, skin grafts, and post-surgical reconstruction.
Medical tattooing is an evolving field, offering solutions for those with compromised skin. Unlike traditional tattoos, dermopigmentation procedures use smaller ink molecules and nano needle cartridges, making them semi-permanent. “Restorative tattooing offers a range of achievements,” Bibi says. “With stretch marks, for example, dry needling requires a minor trauma by stimulating collagen production and promoting tightness and regeneration."
Her work extends beyond aesthetics; it’s deeply emotional. “It’s a path to healing,” she says. “I often come in at the end of a long medical journey—I’m the light at the end of the tunnel.” Through the Ink for Pink foundation, for example, Bibi provides medical tattooing (along with semi-permanent eyebrow and eyeliner tattooing) at no cost to breast cancer patients. These services, often completed post-mastectomy or after chemotherapy, help restore confidence and a sense of wholeness.
With advancements in technology, Bibi now offers scar concealing, radiation mark cover-ups, scalp and alopecia micropigmentation, stabilized vitiligo, semi-permanent makeup, and more. Looking ahead, she hopes to expand into tattooing for children with cleft palate scars. “It’s about restoring not just skin, but confidence and identity,” she says.
Here, three of Bibi’s clients share their experiences with the transformative impact of her work.
KIM POGINY, dry microneedling and scar camouflage
I had surgery on my neck which left me with a surgical scar that I was very self-conscious about, to the point where I avoided wearing regular collar shirts. I was hoping to achieve a less noticeable scar. Bibi made me feel comfortable—our meeting was very informative about the medical tattooing process, expectations pertaining to the final outcome, and the applied microneedling treatment I'd undergo prior to medical tattooing in hopes to receive a better result. It has been a positive journey for me, and I am feeling much better about my scar knowing I will continue to see improvement at every appointment.
TONY MORELLI, scalp micropigmentation
I never really knew that medical tattooing was a thing, but I’m so glad that I reached out and took a chance. I was initially referred to Cosmed.ink from Maine Plastic Surgery, and my goal was to somehow improve the appearance of my bald and thin hair—little did I know that Bibi was going to help me become more confident and comfortable not wearing a hat every day. Her approach was straightforward and blunt, which is exactly what I needed. You can tell that Bibi takes pride in her work and has a knack for providing great results for her clients.
LYDIA MAIER, breast cancer survivor
It took three years after my mastectomy to process the emotional impact of the surgery, especially the impact of losing a body part that had nurtured my two children and brought me so much joy. I’d heard of reconstructive tattoos, but didn’t have the drive or energy to pursue another painful procedure. Through synchronicity, I met Bibi and felt at ease with her immediately. She clearly works from her heart on behalf of survivors, sharing some of her own story and introducing me to supportive resources like Ink for Pink. Just weeks later, I got out of the shower and teared up when I realized I was no longer avoiding the mirror. I felt like myself again. Working with Bibi was a deeply meaningful gift. I didn’t imagine I would get to see my then 15 year old daughter go off to college, but she is happily launched (and a big fan of me getting tattoos). Bibi helped me regain some beauty and comfort I had reluctantly surrendered.