Tattoo excision on upper thigh?

Question

Not looking for information regarding laser. Please inform me on my possibility for excision. Skin graft is out of the question. My tattoo is 4 1/2 long and 3 1/4 wide. It is located on upper thigh. Thank you

Adaeze Okeke, MD · Answer

That tattoo can be excised but it will leave a scar. Excision is done by cutting out the tattoo in a elliptical shape, then sewing the ellipse closed. Depending on the size and shape of your tattoo you may need more than one ellipse. Without seeing pictures of your tattoo or your skin type it is difficult to gauge if it can be done in one procedure (not likely based on the dimensions you gave) and the potential you have to scar. For understandable reasons, many people choose to have tattoos excised, but it is becoming less popular as laser tattoo removal technology has improved. Whatever you decide to do, choose your provider carefully. Good luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is tough to answer without pictures. I don't recommend excision for tattoo removal though. An alternative to laser removal would be the MicroPen TR. It will take a series of treatments. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Reza Nassab, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Your tattoo sounds quite big. It would be helpful to see photos. That said when faced with larger tattoos an option may be serial excision. This means a portion of the tattoo is excised first. Then after a period when the skin stretches a further portion may be excised and so on.

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You will be left with a very large scar if you have excision done. I do not recommend having this done for such a large tattoo. With all the movement in the thigh, it is likely to the scar will widen. I believe your best option is laser removal. I recommend having a consultation with expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

I believe that there will be a very large scar with excision and this is not the recommended treatment for a tattoo this large. With all the movement in this area, there is likely to be widening of the scar as well. Laser is the way to proceed in my opinion.

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

Its difficult to give you an specific answer without pictures. I always recommend laser or over excision however.

Tattoo excision on upper thigh?

Answers (6)

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