I have a tattoo on my right shoulder blade that I would like removed. It was done in 2009, in plain black ink. The tattoo is 5 inches long and about 1 1/2 inches wide - it is simple cursive writing. In the pictures I have provided, i blocked out most of the tattoo, but left some script visible to give you an idea of what the tattoo essentially is. I have set my heart on having the tattoo surgically removed, which entails a minor surgery- The actual skin/tattoo is cut out and stitches are done under the skin as well as over the skin to pull the skin together. My skin will be tight for 2-3 months, but the skin will adjust to its new surface area (similar to breast implants, pregnancy, etc. The skin is a very elastic organ!). This surgery will cost the same as laser tattoo removal, if not less. Getting a cover-up tattoo is NOT an option for me. The surgeon I consulted with is a skin cancer surgery specialist, and has 25+ years of experience. One of my friends thinks this is a terrible idea. He thinks I should do laser removal instead. My issue with laser, is that there is no guarantee the tattoo will be completely removed, AND more pain will be involved between the 5-10 treatments Ive been told I need. My question is, has anyone had any type of tattoo removal done? If so, what was it and what were your results? If you don't mind, please include prices, pain level, etc. Thank you!