Can you remove sections of a tattoo not the entire thing? (Photo)

Question

I’ve just got a tattoo ( I got it yesterday) and the artist took some artistic license to add unexpected details to it. It’s a tattoo of an astronaut and I’m generally really happy but the artist drew creases into the suit that just look like wiggly lines. Is it possible just to remove these lines. And will it be rediculously expensive?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

tattoo removal lasers can be used on small spots and partial areas of tattoos.  I suggest using a PFD patch.  Best, Dr. Emer.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Yes, it is possible to only treat certain areas of a tattoo with laser removal. Several treatments are to be expected, along with some areas of the tattoo may likely have to be retouched. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to remove parts of the tattoo without removing the entire tattoo. Not all patients can have 100% of removal, of the tattoo but the best approach is a combination of pico and nano technology. Depending on how many sessions you have, the lines may look faded instead of completely erased. Be sure to see a licensed technician with extreme precision in order to remove the undesired lines.Best,Anil Shah

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, laser tattoo removal can be used to remove a section of a tattoo. However, as your tattoo is fairly new I recommend waiting 4-6 weeks before removal as you need time to allow your body to heal. Please remember it typically takes several sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to see 70-90% removal. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Robert C. Langdon, MD · Answer

Yes it is possible to treat just sections of a tattoo without treating the entire tattoo. Lasers are quite precise and when focused to a small spot size can treat small parts of the tattoo, such as the lines you described.
There may be a little bit of overlap into parts of the tattoo to be preserved; these sections of the tattoo may have to be “touched up” later by the tattoo artist in order to restore the full image.
Tattoos ideally should be treated with picosecond lasers. Picosecond lasers are more powerful than conventional nanosecond lasers and can clear tattoos with fewer treatments. The most advanced laser centers will have two or more picosecond lasers in order to treat different colors such as greens and reds.

Annika Crosby, MD · Answer

Hi! Yes, in our clinic, we use the Qswitch laser for tattoo removals.  The degree to which the tattoo can be removed is highly dependent on the color and black tattoos respond very well! I would find a provider in your area who is trained in this and do some reasearch of your own.  Ask to see some before and after pics of their work as well.  Best of Luck!

Jessica H. Kim, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, that should be possible.  You will need to see an experienced provider and understand that this may take several treatments to see the desired results.

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to remove part of the tattoo as you described.  It would take several treatments and would need to be done by an experienced laser provider. Part of the tattoo that you do not want removed may be removed in the process and may need to be re inked in the future.

Isobel Walker, MBBS · Answer

Firstly, to answer your question, yes, we commonly remove only parts of tattoos or frequent fade the tattoo for a cover up. The good news is that your tattoo is new, and is black- the easiest colour to remove. For such a simple 3 to 4 minute job, we typically charge $40-50, this includes the complimentary assessment and consult fee. All the best, Dr Isobel Walker. Brisbane. Fiori Institute of Skin and Body.

Can you remove sections of a tattoo not the entire thing? (Photo)

Answers (9)

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