Arlington Dermatologists

Possible to Remove a Tattoo Through Excision?

I have a tattoo that is 4 1/2 by 3 inches on my inner forearm. I read that large tattoos will need a skin graft but they don't specify how large. I won't mind a skin graft and I don't care about scars. How much would it cost?

Grafting has inherent risks on its own.  I prefer serial excision for large tattoos, which removes the need for skin grafting completely.  Excision is the only way to completely remove a tattoo which is the goal for many people.  Of course the down side is a scar which you would have to be willing to accept to go this route.  Hope this helps!

Victoria W. Serralta, MD

Arlington Dermatologic Surgeon

Excision to Remove a Tattoo?

I'm African American, and I have a small all black ankh tattoo on my wrist. Can an excision remove it? Would it also be best just to have excision, as I'm not concerned with scarring either?

Yes, this is a great option for a small tatttoo of the wrist.  There is extra skin there and as long as you are willing to accept a scar in place of the tattoo, you should be very happy with the results.

Victoria W. Serralta, MD

Arlington Dermatologic Surgeon

Can an Excision Be Done on the Finger?

I have a tattoo on the side of my middle finger and I desperately want it removed. I don't want to do laser surgery because it'll take too long a way too expensive. I wanted to do an excision, can it be done or with skin grafting also have to take place? Or what are my other options?

Finger tattoos can be especially troubling.  Generally they are small, however, and when this is the case, the results of surgical excision can be very good!  This is one of my favorite areas to surgically remove tattoos because they tend to heal well and have a huge positive impact on a patient's life.

Victoria W. Serralta, MD

Arlington Dermatologic Surgeon