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Tattoo Removal on Upper Sternum - Excision or Laser?

asked 1 year ago by kraftdinner in mississauga
Latest answer by Tom J. Pousti, MD
Question viewed 278 times
Tags: chest, Asian, best, excision, laser, options

I Need to Get a 5cm X 5cm Tattoo on my Upper Sternum Removed. Is Laser Better or Excision? I'm an asian in mid 20s, and I'd like to know the best options to remove my tattoo. Also, when is the best time of the year to get excision or laser?

3 answers to Tattoo Removal on Upper Sternum - Excision or Laser?

+1

Tattoo excision

Laser tattoo treatment is indicated. With excision you will likely trade one problem for a worse problem. Excision of your tattoo will obviously result in a scar that may be unsightly. Several excisions (staged) may be necessary because of the tightness of the skin in this area. Complications such as keloid or hypertrophic scarring, wound healing problems and/or spreading of the scars are common in this area. Best wishes.
Tom J. Pousti, MD

San Diego Plastic Surgeon
+1

Surgery for a large tattoo will very possibly leave a large scar

Excision of a large tattoo will often leave a large scar whether it was allowed to heal after removal or sutured (might need skin graft or flap if large).  In addition, the chest is one of the high-risk locations for abnormal scarring and may develop a keloid (thick, itchy or painful scar). Multiple treatments are usually necessary for a large tattoo but if the inks are expected to fade with laser (I'd consult with a tattoo laser expert) that may be a good choice to investigate... more
Daniel Berg, MD

Seattle Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Tattoo removal on the chest

Your tattoo is not small and if it is excised on the chest bone, there is a chance of developing a thick painful overhealing scar such as a hypertrophic scar or keloid. Therefore, laser hair removal is worthwhile, not surgery. Laser hair removal consists of many monthly treatments, more than eight, commonly.
Ronald Shelton, MD

Manhattan Dermatologist

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