Can I get a tattoo removed at 15 weeks of pregnancy?

Question

I'm 14 weeks pregnant and I'm currently enroll in a program to have my tattoo removed. My next appointment is next week which will make me 15 weeks. Will this affect my baby in anyway??

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello,Although not proven to be unsafe to have laser treatments while pregnant, it is not an accepted standard of practice.  In our opinion, a safe and prudent practitioner would not offer laser services for a women that is pregnant or breastfeeding.  If you started tattoo removal treatments and then became pregnant, you may still notice continued fading until you are ready to resume treatment

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I would avoid doing any cosmetic elective procedures during pregnancy. Although there is no evidence showing this is unsafe.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally speaking, tattoo removal by laser is not usually recommended during pregnancy. Thank you for your question.

Emil A. Tanghetti, MD · Answer

There is simply not enough data to know what the exact risk is to receiving laser tattoo removal while pregnant. As such, we always advocate caution and would not advise to have treatment nor perform tattoo removal treatments on patients who are pregnant or nursing. It sounds like you are anxious to get this tattoo removed, but it would be prudent to wait until you are done nursing to have treatment.

Lisa Vuich, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. As a rule, we do not recomend tattoo removal during pregnancy as safety has not been studied in this population. You should contact your provider to discuss their policies.
Best
Lisa Vuich, MD

Can I get a tattoo removed at 15 weeks of pregnancy?

Answers (5)