POSTED UNDER Tattoo Removal REVIEWS
Very Large Chest Tattoo Mess- 30yr Old Female, Calgary Ab Canada
ORIGINAL POST
Hey everyone- I'm new to this site. I'll start...
erinstrAugust 4, 2015
$2,676
Hey everyone- I'm new to this site. I'll start with my difficult journey this far. I was young blah blah blah and got a big chest piece done that I ended up hating immediately after getting it. I lived with it for 3 years before deciding I would attempt to have it covered. I did my research and found a reputable artist who specializes in cover ups. We came up with a plan I felt good about, and 2 weeks before my first appt I found out I was expecting my daughter, so it got postponed of course.
Fast forward to June 2015, and I went for my first cover up session. Went well and I felt really good about the direction the tattoo was going. Second cover up session July 2015, it all went to [RS bleep]. I hate it, it's bigger-darker- and just a huge mess. I'm traumatized, my self esteem is in the toilet.. I'm wearing sweaters and scarves in the hot summer heat to hide it. I cry every time I look in the mirror.
I've decided to start the long painful ugly process of laser removal and I'm going to try and remain as positive as possible through this journey- which is likely to take me AT LEAST two years.
I had a consult with a reputable clinic here in Calgary in August 1st. They were professional, informative and answered all my questions. They use a q switch laser, they do not have the picosure. They do have good prices and a good payment plan- as well as total removal garuntee package. they quoted me 14 sessions- and of its not gone by the 14 sessions, they continue sessions until it's gone for free. So you buy all 14 sessions up front with a 25% discount for buying the package , which will end up saving me about $3500 off the total price. Without the package each session would cost $575. They also offer numbing cream, but it costs a whopping $65 a session if you want it. And from what I hear, it doesn't make that much of a difference.
Anyways, I booked my first treatment for October (I was advised at my consult that I need to wait 12 weeks due to how fresh the ink is, it needs to fully heal before starting treatments)
I have one more consult at a dermatologist office, tomorrow (August 5th) they have 4 lasers in their office including the picosure as opposed to only one laser. I would imagine, that it will be quite a bit more expensive for that reason- but I like the idea of going to a dr, for the simple fact that it's more likely they will do lidocaine injections. But we will see. I'll post some pictures so you can see what kind of terrible mess I have so far. I'll do my best to follow this through and document to the very end. I've had a really hard time finding any success stories fully removing a tattoo of my size. All the stories I've seen are still in progress (so if you happen to se or have one please let me know, I need encouragement)
Fast forward to June 2015, and I went for my first cover up session. Went well and I felt really good about the direction the tattoo was going. Second cover up session July 2015, it all went to [RS bleep]. I hate it, it's bigger-darker- and just a huge mess. I'm traumatized, my self esteem is in the toilet.. I'm wearing sweaters and scarves in the hot summer heat to hide it. I cry every time I look in the mirror.
I've decided to start the long painful ugly process of laser removal and I'm going to try and remain as positive as possible through this journey- which is likely to take me AT LEAST two years.
I had a consult with a reputable clinic here in Calgary in August 1st. They were professional, informative and answered all my questions. They use a q switch laser, they do not have the picosure. They do have good prices and a good payment plan- as well as total removal garuntee package. they quoted me 14 sessions- and of its not gone by the 14 sessions, they continue sessions until it's gone for free. So you buy all 14 sessions up front with a 25% discount for buying the package , which will end up saving me about $3500 off the total price. Without the package each session would cost $575. They also offer numbing cream, but it costs a whopping $65 a session if you want it. And from what I hear, it doesn't make that much of a difference.
Anyways, I booked my first treatment for October (I was advised at my consult that I need to wait 12 weeks due to how fresh the ink is, it needs to fully heal before starting treatments)
I have one more consult at a dermatologist office, tomorrow (August 5th) they have 4 lasers in their office including the picosure as opposed to only one laser. I would imagine, that it will be quite a bit more expensive for that reason- but I like the idea of going to a dr, for the simple fact that it's more likely they will do lidocaine injections. But we will see. I'll post some pictures so you can see what kind of terrible mess I have so far. I'll do my best to follow this through and document to the very end. I've had a really hard time finding any success stories fully removing a tattoo of my size. All the stories I've seen are still in progress (so if you happen to se or have one please let me know, I need encouragement)
Replies (56)
August 10, 2015
I'm going through the same kind of deal. I'm 21 and got a koi don't on the outer part of my arm, basically a half sleeve.well I went to a reputable person and he messed up. So, I got a partial cover up to fix the mistakes, but in fixing them, it created more. And It's so dark. I'm depressed, traumatized, on depressants, and beggining to see a therapist because it's so bad. I've always been self-conscious not myself, but now I wear long sleeve shirts everywhere I go. I wear long sleeves even when I'm at home with my family. I'm debating on beggining picosure, and have been to 2 separate places for consultations. My parents and family are against me getting it taken off, but I'm just tired of living in a constant depressed state..... Not sure what to do.
August 10, 2015
I have these same depressed feelings and I also cover up even at home. I had to move forward with laser in order to feel like I can be happy with myself again. Some of my family is against it as well- but what's most important is taking the steps necessary to be comfortable in your own skin again. The only thing that is now helping me feel better, is knowing that once I start this process there is a light at the end of the tunnel , even if it's going to take a few years to get there.
August 10, 2015
Yea and that's the hope that I'm looking for too. I'm not sure wether I'll have my skin back, or if it'll be scarred. That's why I'm afraid of going fourth with it. With me being a college student, I have to save up the money before going with it. I've been talking to different artists to try and see if it can be fixed any more, but my mom ( who has tattoos and knows what I'm going through) feels as if no matter what I do, I won't be happy. It's not Necessarily a bad tat, well according to most people, but to me, I just can't get over the whole situation. I'm glad to hear that I'm not the only one going through this.
August 10, 2015
Weirdly enough, I just ran into a chick on the beach that had an amazing koi fish tat on her leg. I stopped and talked to her for a minute or two. She told me that no matter what I did with the lasers, it wouldn't come up, but when I mentioned picosure, she knew nothing about what I was talking about. She told me that the best thing to do would be to laser it a few times and get a cover up. Problem is, I'm not entirely sure if I want a cover up considering the first didn't work. So that kinda made me a little suspicious on wether she knew what she was talking about or not. Ironically I asked where she got her koi done.... Needless to say she said it was done in Europe...I'm from virginia.... Ha I don't think I'm making a trip to Europe for a cover up by that guy lol
August 11, 2015
Probably not as in making the trip, or her knowing what she's talking about ? Lol I got a lil lost on that one
August 11, 2015
Making the trip- but I don't know that she really knows what's she is talking about either
August 11, 2015
But lasering for a cover up is a good idea, in Europe there are many good tattoo studios that charge lot for the session! In US I think there are good artist too but sometimes if we rush things then we end up in the [RS bleep] :D (just making a joke here) :)
August 11, 2015
I felt the same way, I was so depressed about my tat that I couldn't sleep at all....I am following your story so keep us posted ;)
It's good that you resigned from getting a cover up before the feeling in the colours so that your tattoo is easier to be removed because dolours are still the most stubborn...
It's good that you resigned from getting a cover up before the feeling in the colours so that your tattoo is easier to be removed because dolours are still the most stubborn...
August 11, 2015
Yea well unfortunately I don't want to make a trip to Europe just to get a tat done lol. But yea I'm hoping that mine may come up if I get it lasered with the pico laser.
August 12, 2015
I hope so too ;)
With lasers I believe that the most important is not the machine but the experience of the medician. So be sure that the doc is experienced with the laser.
With lasers I believe that the most important is not the machine but the experience of the medician. So be sure that the doc is experienced with the laser.
September 1, 2015
I know exactly how you feel dude.. Got my inner bicep tatted about two months ago and have been depressed every since.. Been looking into removal like its my job.. Used to work out, loved my body and now I feel like I've ruined it (as weird as that sounds...) don't sleep, get really anxious... Tired of feeling this way... Totally unexpected seeing that I've wanted a tat for years.... My twin says it looks good ( his bicep is inked too and loves it) but I just can can't wrap my head around mine... Anyways good luck brother, and too you Erin
September 1, 2015
Thanks! Good luck to you too. I can definitely relate to the feeling that I wrecked my body :(
Here's hoping we can get back to a happy place!
Here's hoping we can get back to a happy place!
September 1, 2015
I'm the same way when it's come to the gym. I stopped working out completely because I just have a worthless feeling. Just had on of my consultations recently and they quoted me about $3,500 for picosure and picoway.... They think they can get all the ink out except for the yellow.... Not sure what I'm gonna do.
September 1, 2015
I hear ya dude, I used to be really involved at the gym and recently just started back at it... I wear a Hoodie most of the time working out to cover my inner bicep so I don't think about it as much. I've been looking into excision but still not a 100 percent either.. It's a hard situation and added stress that I really thought I'd never have to endure... Get back to the gym though, I feel a little better already since I started lifting again
September 1, 2015
I've been trying. Even ordered all new supplements to hopeful encourage me. I wouldn't do excision since it can leave a nasty scar from what I've heard, but I could be wrong. I've been wearing long sleeve shirts everywhere i go. Plus I just started college back up so its just more stress that's added to my life.
September 1, 2015
Almost everytime after a workout I feel a lot better about myself even though I was depressed prior... I just keep reminding myself that my ink is a "temporary issue" and that there are solutions unlike many years ago. Trust man my tat gets me down a lot but training has helped me. I also am goin back to college in a week. Ive noticed though a lot of other kids have ink way worse than mine ( not professional) and just don't care, their confidence over comes the "terrible" ink which almost makes them pull it off.. (If that makes sense).. So get back to the gym bro it makes a big difference for a fixable solution. I've been trying to be more positive seeing that there are people with a lot bigger issues. I just started thinking this way though man although it is still very difficult. One day at a time buddy
September 1, 2015
That's the way I've been trying to think. I live in Richmond and God are there terrible tattoos. And yea, walking around my college I see people who have life way worse than me, so I try to look at it as a minor thing compared to others that struggle with life.
September 1, 2015
Hey there erinstr and Mrwarden, it breaks my heart to hear how sad you both feel, because I truly do understand....I still remember sitting on the bike at the gym and right in front of me was this beautiful lady with a slender back with no tattoos peeking through, and I felt so ugly, so ashamed—I vividly remember thinking -- "that used to be me, why did I do this to myself" and it wasn't long after that I quit going to the gym. I decided to work out at home and hide myself from the world - what a mistake. Not only did I go into a deeper depression and cause stress in the family, but I was alone. My family and I go to the gym together, I am a fitness/yoga instructor -- I gave all that up to loath in my self pity and it is my biggest regret, even more than the tattoo. I am sharing this with you both, and I often mention this in my comments, because I want to try and prevent people from making the same mistake. When I found my confidence again, and started to "live life" again, I realized how much I missed out on and how hard it was for others to be around me, even my dog was sad around me....that's not the person I wanted to be, and that's not the life I wanted to live. My message here is, dig deep...you are stronger than you think and you can find that "happy place" again, it's there waiting for you to come join in.
I might have already shared this with you, but just in case...watch it, and watch it again....I am sending you some positive energy, and a giant hug. Chin up :0) you are both going to be ok. Tattoo Regret: Kathryn Schulz Shares Her Story of Tattoo Regret - Video oh, and another very inspiring movie that everyone feeling down should watch - "The Happy Movie" please look it up and take some time.
September 1, 2015
Yea I see, did you remove your tattoos or Keep them? I'm beggining picosure and picoway next week. They re-quoted me today for $2400 for the entire package.
September 4, 2015
This talk about regret (link) is so powerful. I watched it twice back to back. Thank you for sharing.
August 11, 2015
Dang scarring. I hope you are able to remove what you want. How refreshing to have a tech who is upfront and honest about expectations. Good luck!
August 11, 2015
I had the same thought, I'm grateful she was honest with me- I could've gone through thousands of dollars and like 3 years only to find out it won't fully go away
August 11, 2015
Yes, it's important that the doc is honest...at least you see she will not charge you to the infinity! I hope you will achieve what you want ;)
August 11, 2015
Thank you for sharing your story! I really like to read other people storeis so I can see that there are so many tattoo regrets....I think that this will be in the near future the best area for the docs to make money on, because there are statisticly NOW 1 out of 5 persons who regret their tatoo!
August 11, 2015
Hopefully we will see improved technology in the future that will make the process shorter and less painful! I read and article about a promising new cream being developed by a student , it's still in the testing/experimental stages- but it apparently uses the same sort of method the lasers do, by targeting the ink, breaking it down and letting your immune system carry it away. And apparently it will be much more affordable than laser removal.
September 22, 2015
I really like your cover up. I did my first treatment with spectra laser last week and it was so hard, but i really want take out this ink of me. I desire you make a good choise!
UPDATED FROM erinstr
3 days post
Oops
erinstrAugust 4, 2015
Forgot to mention in my first post- that i plan to remove everything except for the bird, and the word "love". Those will be staying. Hopefully.
Replies (2)
August 5, 2015
Hey there, I am super happy that you found us and felt comfortable sharing your story. I have to say, it looks like your cover up was looking good, what was it that you didn't like? I am glad that you are looking at all your options and going for multiple consultations, the PicoSure works really well on blue, here is an example of that: After 2 Picosure Treatments. Redding, CA
For some inspiration:
Here is another member working on removal of a chest piece: Tattoo removal Picosure Tx for a Big Chest Piece - Summit, NJ
Here is another member working on a large colorful arm sleeve: half sleeve tattoo removal with picosure laser
I look forward to following your journey and wish you success with your removal.
August 5, 2015
Thank you so much!
To answer your question in short form, I don't have anything against the artist or his work, it's just become so big and so bold and it's not me.
To answer your question in short form, I don't have anything against the artist or his work, it's just become so big and so bold and it's not me.
UPDATED FROM erinstr
4 days post
2nd consult done
erinstrAugust 6, 2015
I'm feeling a little discouraged and overwhelmed. Had another consult today, at the institute for skin advancement, here in Calgary. This is a dermatologist office that specializes in cosmetic and laser surgery.
I was very pleased with how professional and knowledgable they were. I feel like they were way more straight and realistic with me. The woman who did my consultation, frankly told me that she did not believe my tattoo could be fully removed. She talked me through it in detail as to why, and then presented me with some options. She's confident that she can fully remove parts of it, and really fade other parts, so I can continued cover up the way I had originally wanted. She also qouted me a smoking good deal of $300/session to do that, as opposed to treating the entire tattoo for a whopping $900/session with no garuntee that it will ever be fully removed.
I feel like that is the best option for me, I just need to take some time to fully analyze it now, and figure out what I hate about it- what I like about it, and work with a good artist to complete the cover up and make it into something I will love and be proud to show. I welcome your thoughts and comments and ideas please! As I shared in my earlier post, I was happy with the direction the cover up was going after the first session, I will post a picture of what that looked like. Hopefully the removal process can get me back to that point. Let me know what you guys think
I was very pleased with how professional and knowledgable they were. I feel like they were way more straight and realistic with me. The woman who did my consultation, frankly told me that she did not believe my tattoo could be fully removed. She talked me through it in detail as to why, and then presented me with some options. She's confident that she can fully remove parts of it, and really fade other parts, so I can continued cover up the way I had originally wanted. She also qouted me a smoking good deal of $300/session to do that, as opposed to treating the entire tattoo for a whopping $900/session with no garuntee that it will ever be fully removed.
I feel like that is the best option for me, I just need to take some time to fully analyze it now, and figure out what I hate about it- what I like about it, and work with a good artist to complete the cover up and make it into something I will love and be proud to show. I welcome your thoughts and comments and ideas please! As I shared in my earlier post, I was happy with the direction the cover up was going after the first session, I will post a picture of what that looked like. Hopefully the removal process can get me back to that point. Let me know what you guys think
Replies (7)
August 6, 2015
Hi! I was there too....so depressed about my tattoo that I couldn't do anything, I was sleepless and searching 24/7 via internet posibilities of removal....Your chest piece cover up idea look really nice, I can't wait for the pictures!
Laser treatments are long process and the longer breaks between the treatments the better! Take care :)
Laser treatments are long process and the longer breaks between the treatments the better! Take care :)
August 6, 2015
Hey lovely! Thanks for sharing your story. I totally understand how you feel, as I've been dealing with tattoo regret for quite a few months now. I am set to begin treatments on my 3/4 sleeve at the end of August, though I'm still a bit wishy washy about it. I do really like how your cover up is going, but I understand the feeling that it's too big and bold. That's exactly how I feel - great work, just not the right person to wear it. Here is a confidence inspiring story on this site:
http://www.realself.com/review/dallas-tx-tattoo-removal-picosure-and-medlite-3-4-sleeve#
This story has really helped me feel good about my decision to remove my tattoo. Hopefully this and other stories can give you some piece of mind! Hang in there :)
http://www.realself.com/review/dallas-tx-tattoo-removal-picosure-and-medlite-3-4-sleeve#
This story has really helped me feel good about my decision to remove my tattoo. Hopefully this and other stories can give you some piece of mind! Hang in there :)
August 6, 2015
Thanks so much! I find reading other people's stories really helpful and comforting. It's great to have this site for support
July 5, 2018
There is a place called Go Tattoo Removal in Allentown that is PHENOMENAL. Had 3 sessions there with massive fading. $200 flat fee for large tats, unless it’s a full sleeve or something, then $400 flat. They have the ND YAG laser and the Pico laser and use both.
July 22, 2018
you know really why not just wait a while. Honestly that coudn't hurt right?? sounds more like you need to focus on you. Not what's displayed on you. you sound like a really great person anyone who thinks otherwise cause of a tattoo isn't worth a dot.
There are parts of the cover up I love, and parts I hate. So hopefully I can get rid of the parts I hate and continue the cover up in a direction I'm happy with.