Can tattoos be removed with plastic surgery?

Deciding to remove a tattoo is a highly personal choice, and the reasons for doing so can vary greatly. There are several methods available for tattoo removal, each with its own price range. One option is surgery, which, while less common, is preferred by some individuals.

Although most people choose traditional methods, some plastic surgeons offer surgical tattoo removal. But why? Is it more effective or simply more expensive?

The explanation is straightforward: certain tattoos, especially those with stubborn ink, may not fully respond to laser treatments, making surgery the best option for complete removal. However, this method is not recommended for larger ones.

Surgeons typically employ two specific techniques for tattoo removal.

Removing tattoos: the two methods

The technique used for tattoo removal depends largely on the size and location of the tattoo.

The first method can completely remove the tattoo. How does it work? The procedure requires enough skin elasticity to allow stretching from side to side, gradually making the tattoo disappear. In place of the tattoo, a scar will remain. Your surgeon will provide guidance on how to care for the area after the procedure.

The second method involves a skin graft, which may be necessary in certain cases. This is typically used for tattoos located on areas like the thighs or wrists, or when the tattoo is larger than expected but still manageable with available materials.

While many people may not like the idea of having a scar, some prefer it when laser treatments are ineffective.

After the tattoo is removed, it’s crucial for the patient to care for the scar until the stitches are removed, which can take up to 21 days, depending on the specific case.

For more information, you can check out the next video where you can see which cases are prone to need surgical tattoos removal and why. 

If you are interested in the process, you can visit our website. Fill up the form and we will contact you in shortly for more information. We offer free videocalls with our medical expert team before comiting to the next big step.