Forearm tattoo removal and previous keloid scarring on shoulders/chest safety?

Question

I get keloid scaring on my shoulders, and chest. All have been from acne. I got a tattoo on my forearm (even though my local dermatologist said I shouldn't as it could keloid.) Luckily it didn't. But now several years later I'm wanting to get it removed. Will laser tattoo removal, cause keloid scaring? I know laser tattoo removal causes you to blister, and I don't want those to turn into Keloids. Am I out of luck with removing the tattoo or is it unlikely to scar?

Brian Citro, MD · Answer

If you didn't keloid during from the tattoo placement then you aren't likely to keloid from laser removal. The easiest way to find out is to start with a test spot. I would also recommend using lower energy settings to help reduce the risk. It will take a bit longer to remove but it will be worth it.

Wayne Wertheim, MD · Answer

We have treated many patients that have keloid scars that have not had the issue with tattoo removal. You have not stated your skin type or color. That being said be sure you go to a well experienced medical center. advise them of your condition. make sure they go slowly at first with less energy than they would normally use to see the effect. blisters dont usually have issue with scarring.  depending on many factors that your physician will have to evaluate they will be able to better answer your specific needs.
good luck

Jessica H. Kim, MD, FAAD · Answer

Compared to a patient with no history of keloids, you would be at increased risk.  Typically, the chest/shoulders is a region predisposed to poor healing and keloid formation due to higher wound tension.  The forearms would be at lower risk.  Consult with an experienced and board-certified cosmetic physician.  Laser tattoo treatments does not always result in blister formation.  Conservative parameters can be used to try to minimize adverse effects.

Rakesh Nanda, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

We have patients that do have a keloid history upon presentation to our facility. My suggestion is to have a proper test spot done first before removing the entire tattoo. This will help determine if you are prone to keloiding with that particular type of laser. We suggest that you consider using a Picosure 1064 laser if possible to help reduce chances of keloiding. I also suggest starting at lower settings and then slowly working your way up throughout the process. We fully utilize pico technology at all of our locations and are happy to help you at any of our offices throughout Ohio.

Forearm tattoo removal and previous keloid scarring on shoulders/chest safety?

Answers (4)

Answer: Keloiding with tattoo removal

Answer: Keloiding with tattoo removal

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Forearm tattoo removal and previous keloid scarring on shoulders/chest safety?

Answers (4)

Answer: Keloiding with tattoo removal

Answer: Keloiding with tattoo removal

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.