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Tattoo Excision for Large Tattoo?

asked 11 months ago by Dan9888
Latest answer by Tom J. Pousti, MD
Question viewed 177 times
Tags: arms, choosing a surgeon, color, graft

Hello, I have a pretty large tattoo that wraps around forearm/middle arm to upper arm that I would like to have removed via surgical excision w/ skin graft... I'm sure it would be a long and painful process, but I think laser is out of the question because of the size and teal color. I'm fine with scarring and I'm sure it will be relatively significant. Where can I begin to find someone with a lot of experience with this procedure? Because of the scale, it requires a master...thanks...

2 answers to Tattoo Excision for Large Tattoo?

+1

Large Tattoo Removal

To excise a large tattoo (say one larger than your hand) means that a skin graft from somewhere else will need to be done. The doctors that have the most experience with skin grafts are the same ones that treat large burns in hospitals, i.e. plastic surgeons. Call several in your area and explain your situation. You mentioned laser might not work but did you know that the Alexandrite laser will remove teal and other green pigment? While you are making phone calls, see if there is someone... more
T. Wayne Day, MD

Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon
+1

Tattoo excision

Be careful you do not 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. Skin grafting is a major procedure with significant potential risks and complications, involving the recipient and donor sites. Again, the resulting cosmetic results leaves much to be desired. I would suggest you continue to look into laser... more
Tom J. Pousti, MD

San Diego Plastic Surgeon

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