Is It Possible to Remove Old Tattoo so That I Can Replace with New Tatto in Same Location?

Question

I want to laser off my tattooed half sleeve because I'm not satisfied with the work ... but I want to get a whole new sleeve on top of the same area where I want the old tattoos removed ... is this possible ? Or is it dangerous and bad for the skin ?

Sanusi Umar, MD · Answer

Yes, many patients opt for laser tattoo removal in order to replace their old design with a new one. This will require a series of treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. After the skin has healed from your very last treatment, it is fine for you to get a new tattoo.

	In many cases, however, outlines and traces of your old tattoo are often still visible. Keep this in mind when you get your new tattoo done.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

Many patients get a tattoo and then are not happy with the results and seek removal.  Laser works great in the removal of these tattoos.  You will undergo a laser treatment appoximately every 4-6 weeks for about 6 sessions.  How quickly it is removed can depend on the ink coloring; black being the easiest where as green being a little more difficult and possibly requiring more sessions.   When complete you should be left with close to the same skin you had prior to the tattoo.  You may then get another tattoo over that area.  Even if the tattoo is not completely removed, you can put a new tattoo over the old one.  It is not dangerous nor will it harm the integrity of your skin.  I would contact a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi D.  Absolutely you can remove your old tattoo.  We do this very commonly for Orange County patients looking to get rid of their tattoos or to cover over them with another.

	The color of your tattoo, type of ink, depth of placement, laser used and quality of the practitioner will all have an effect on how many treatments the tattoo takes to remove and how much it will ultimately cost.  

	Finally, make sure to choose an experienced practitioner, as we have seen several patients recently that have been scarred from tattoo removal.  If you follow the link below, you will be able to learn about our tattoo removal program and schedule a free consultation.

Missy Clifton, MD · Answer

With the right laser treatment, it is possible to lighten or remove an old tattoo in order to have a new one put in same location.  This has been done many times in our practice.  Be aware that certain tattoo colors are difficult to remove completely (light blue and yellow).  However, a good tattoo artist can cover or mask what&rsquo;s left behind.

Robert T. Anolik, MD · Answer

New and old tattoos can be removed successfully.  Usually this is performed to restore the skin's normal appearance, but sometimes removal is performed so that a patient can replace the existing tattoo with another.  The types of lasers available and the physician experience with laser surgery play important roles in clearance rates and success.  Often Q-switched Ruby, Q-switched Nd:Yag, and Q-switched Alexandrite lasers are used to remove pigment.  Sometimes fractional resurfacing lasers are incorporated to remove less common tattoo pigments.  I encourage you to have a consultation with a physician who specializes in laser surgery to discuss your options.

Is It Possible to Remove Old Tattoo so That I Can Replace with New Tatto in Same Location?

Answers (8)

Answer: Old tattoos can successfully be lightened or removed.

Answer: Old tattoos can successfully be lightened or removed.

Answer: Laser therapy can successfully remove new and old tattoos

Answer: Laser therapy can successfully remove new and old tattoos

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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

Is It Possible to Remove Old Tattoo so That I Can Replace with New Tatto in Same Location?

Answers (8)

Answer: Old tattoos can successfully be lightened or removed.

Answer: Old tattoos can successfully be lightened or removed.

Answer: Laser therapy can successfully remove new and old tattoos

Answer: Laser therapy can successfully remove new and old tattoos

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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