POSTED UNDER Tattoo Removal Reviews
Instant Regret, Too Big and Bulky. Miss my Plain Skin :( - London, GB
UPDATED FROM rockchick82
Elated - Deflated
rockchick82April 12, 2016
So I went to see Wayne. Really nice and honest. Which is not necessarily good news for me :(
The facts?
- I have olive skin, so higher risks of hypopigmentation and lesser chance of removal ;
- I have [RS bleep] loads of pink which can not only be a b*tch to remove, but adds to hypopigmentation risk;
- same with the white ink ;
- we're looking at 2 years for a potential nasty hypopigmented ghost. Woohoo.
I want to cry. This is the worst thing I have ever done in my entire life.
The facts?
- I have olive skin, so higher risks of hypopigmentation and lesser chance of removal ;
- I have [RS bleep] loads of pink which can not only be a b*tch to remove, but adds to hypopigmentation risk;
- same with the white ink ;
- we're looking at 2 years for a potential nasty hypopigmented ghost. Woohoo.
I want to cry. This is the worst thing I have ever done in my entire life.
Replies (5)
April 12, 2016
Hi ! I know exactly how you feel, year ago when I wend for a tattoo removal consultation, and heard my responce, I cried in front of a consultant, the pain was so strong. Even thou I have a fair skin she was also very honest in saying, that to save my skin from damage and to perform the process safely, it would took 5y only to prepare it for a cover up.
I think both of us, you and me, we can feel lucky that we got honest consultation. I have read so many people review on this forum, becoming dissapointments. I have been removing pink from the tattoo I covered at the end (which I was unhappy with) and I can tell you with full honesty that after 1y of threatments the pink pigment maybe dissapeared in 30%. The black was almost gone, while pink barely touched (Used switched).
I am telling you to simply take your time to think before deciding opon removal. You might have to be prepared, at least with the current technology for a ghost tattoo, which probably you will end up covering. You can start the process which can leave your skin damaged, or do what I decided to do, wait for a better technology. In the forum you can read about the Eraser TM system which is expected to be out sometime begining of next year.
From my experience I can tell you that waiting is so difficult, and having tattoo that I dislike already for 1 y on my back, has been a nightmare, now it is more or less ignored by me. It is a huge lesson that I got of patience, of commitment and of myself, and maybe the lessons I got are helping me to deal with it and accept it more day by day.
I took decision to wait cold-blooded and decided what in my opinion will be best for my skin. Give yourself a time for emotions to go down and then take yours - and you can be thankful for the fact that you had a chance to hear the truth.
All the best,
Anna
I think both of us, you and me, we can feel lucky that we got honest consultation. I have read so many people review on this forum, becoming dissapointments. I have been removing pink from the tattoo I covered at the end (which I was unhappy with) and I can tell you with full honesty that after 1y of threatments the pink pigment maybe dissapeared in 30%. The black was almost gone, while pink barely touched (Used switched).
I am telling you to simply take your time to think before deciding opon removal. You might have to be prepared, at least with the current technology for a ghost tattoo, which probably you will end up covering. You can start the process which can leave your skin damaged, or do what I decided to do, wait for a better technology. In the forum you can read about the Eraser TM system which is expected to be out sometime begining of next year.
From my experience I can tell you that waiting is so difficult, and having tattoo that I dislike already for 1 y on my back, has been a nightmare, now it is more or less ignored by me. It is a huge lesson that I got of patience, of commitment and of myself, and maybe the lessons I got are helping me to deal with it and accept it more day by day.
I took decision to wait cold-blooded and decided what in my opinion will be best for my skin. Give yourself a time for emotions to go down and then take yours - and you can be thankful for the fact that you had a chance to hear the truth.
All the best,
Anna
April 12, 2016
Very good advice Anna. No rash decisions should be made when you are emotional. I learned to live with my tattoo for 13 years. I am NOT my stupid mistake of a tattoo. This year I am turning 32 and feel like I adult about my decision to remove my tattoo. If it does not go away, then I am okey with that. Wish you the best of luck
April 12, 2016
Thanks Anna, I appreciate your comment a lot ... I just feel so ashamed to have this on my arm ...Summer is around and I cant get my head around it. I am going to see my parents in 2 weeks and cannot let them see this crap, I think that is why i have been going nuts too (they are religious, anti tattoo and anti crap tattoo lol).
I have been frantically buying long sleeve tops as I cant stand seeing the thing poke out.
But in any case, it is true that beating one' s self about it is certainly not going to help anyone , least of all me.
I am going to try and exercise a bit to make the emotions go away and will probably have one session of Pico end of May to see what happens!
Thank you again and I really hope that EraseTM will be FDA approved!!
I have been frantically buying long sleeve tops as I cant stand seeing the thing poke out.
But in any case, it is true that beating one' s self about it is certainly not going to help anyone , least of all me.
I am going to try and exercise a bit to make the emotions go away and will probably have one session of Pico end of May to see what happens!
Thank you again and I really hope that EraseTM will be FDA approved!!
April 12, 2016
Edited to add, thanks to all for commenting, it is so helpful to get 'brought down' to earth! I really appreciate it.
April 12, 2016
Hi! I totally can understand you. I remember my 1st visit to a family and I knew my father will hate it. And while I can stand on my own feet and hold my opinions if we disagree (which is rare) - I was thinking - how can I defend myself on tattoo that I hate even more? It was hard, and it finished on me saying: I know dad I made mistake, and as you know, we all do. Mine has a shape of a multicoloured phoenix on my back, which every day reminds me that I am only human and I make mistakes. This is really all possitive we can take away from this experience, the lesson they are bringing.
While making tattoo I have also met amazing people that are still here, and became my friends. So I also like to joke "they are only good thing that happen when making this tattoo" - and then we both laught with my dad.
So this are really my advices after 1y of feeling what you are. Take all the lessons you can take from it. Think about yourself and how it affects you. And really, would you think 2 years ago that there would be 3d printed prothesis on the market? Or that there would be a vegan egg available ? And there would be vegan meat produced which have a taste and texture of meat? This on is in production - but every day people are inventing new things that are bringing hope to the world, to people being sick, and to little people like us that made mistake. And we all can be lucky we are living to make them :-)
Loads of love from Spain.
While making tattoo I have also met amazing people that are still here, and became my friends. So I also like to joke "they are only good thing that happen when making this tattoo" - and then we both laught with my dad.
So this are really my advices after 1y of feeling what you are. Take all the lessons you can take from it. Think about yourself and how it affects you. And really, would you think 2 years ago that there would be 3d printed prothesis on the market? Or that there would be a vegan egg available ? And there would be vegan meat produced which have a taste and texture of meat? This on is in production - but every day people are inventing new things that are bringing hope to the world, to people being sick, and to little people like us that made mistake. And we all can be lucky we are living to make them :-)
Loads of love from Spain.
April 12, 2016
Some of my black ink is slightly whitish in a few small spots. I'm expecting to be left with whitish scars, hypopigmentation, or a ghost image of my weird netting and I have very fair skin. I think it sort of comes with the territory. If anybody is expecting to be instantly left with the same, perfect skin they had before, they need to think again.
Not to say you can't have decent skin again over time. The thing that keeps me motivated is that hypopigmentation and scarring tends to fade and blend back into the skin with time. There's still a chance for us.
Also, for me, I'm probably planning on getting a cover-up. Not sure if you'd want to go that route though. It's definitely not required.
I also think that you'll start feeling much happier the lighter your ink gets. I know I'm already SO much happier now that my ugly ink isn't as dark and vibrant as before. You seem completely serious about wanting this ink off, and so, I think this will be a great start for you.
Yes, we screwed up. But the only way we can move is forward. There's hope for us, for you, and I think this is a good start.
Not to say you can't have decent skin again over time. The thing that keeps me motivated is that hypopigmentation and scarring tends to fade and blend back into the skin with time. There's still a chance for us.
Also, for me, I'm probably planning on getting a cover-up. Not sure if you'd want to go that route though. It's definitely not required.
I also think that you'll start feeling much happier the lighter your ink gets. I know I'm already SO much happier now that my ugly ink isn't as dark and vibrant as before. You seem completely serious about wanting this ink off, and so, I think this will be a great start for you.
Yes, we screwed up. But the only way we can move is forward. There's hope for us, for you, and I think this is a good start.
April 13, 2016
Hey love. Glad your appointment with Wayne enabled you to gain some valuable information. I know its tough to hear but its good that you get the honest truth instead of "Oh yeah....six treatments and it'll be gone!"
Remember everyone will react differently to lasers. You might be fine! I have olive skin too, I tan easily but my arm has no tan and I will keep it covered with a bandage during the summer. Hypopigmentation is a risk, but I would prefer a lighter, almost skin colour mark rather than my big black tattoo. In time, even pigmentation can be repaired and by then you won't even remember time before your tattoo.
I know that it is easier said than done and remember....I have been where you are now :) seriously....however, let me reassure you love, you will learn to deal and accept your situation. Its done, you got a tatt you don't like....but letting the shame and guilt consume you won't do anything but destroy your spirit. No one will notice your tatt, no one will judge you because of your tatt. It time terms, two years of your long life isn't much and inbetween treatments you'll have fun, go on holiday, spend time with family and friends and no one will care about your tatt.
Have you thought that prehaps when your crown has faded out, you might like your rose and be happy keeping it. Maybe fading some of the pink/red shading will make it look better...you never know!
Chin up babe. You are not your tattoo...you are still you and you're not alone :) x
Remember everyone will react differently to lasers. You might be fine! I have olive skin too, I tan easily but my arm has no tan and I will keep it covered with a bandage during the summer. Hypopigmentation is a risk, but I would prefer a lighter, almost skin colour mark rather than my big black tattoo. In time, even pigmentation can be repaired and by then you won't even remember time before your tattoo.
I know that it is easier said than done and remember....I have been where you are now :) seriously....however, let me reassure you love, you will learn to deal and accept your situation. Its done, you got a tatt you don't like....but letting the shame and guilt consume you won't do anything but destroy your spirit. No one will notice your tatt, no one will judge you because of your tatt. It time terms, two years of your long life isn't much and inbetween treatments you'll have fun, go on holiday, spend time with family and friends and no one will care about your tatt.
Have you thought that prehaps when your crown has faded out, you might like your rose and be happy keeping it. Maybe fading some of the pink/red shading will make it look better...you never know!
Chin up babe. You are not your tattoo...you are still you and you're not alone :) x
April 13, 2016
Hey ! Thank you so much for your kind words :-) really means a lot and I honestly love this community, people are really amazing.
I also would rather have a ghost than the actual thing, and I expected it anyway. I never expected to get my full arm back, that's absolutely fine as in a way it will be a reminder of this foolish time (in a good way as I learnt a lot about myself!).
I feel sooo much better today, I think it has sunk in my brain that life HAS to go on, there is nothing that can be done until the first session of pico. Life still has to be lived!
I am also planning to cover my arm and just work on getting my body healthy - a really good side effect I suppose :-)
xoxo
I also would rather have a ghost than the actual thing, and I expected it anyway. I never expected to get my full arm back, that's absolutely fine as in a way it will be a reminder of this foolish time (in a good way as I learnt a lot about myself!).
I feel sooo much better today, I think it has sunk in my brain that life HAS to go on, there is nothing that can be done until the first session of pico. Life still has to be lived!
I am also planning to cover my arm and just work on getting my body healthy - a really good side effect I suppose :-)
xoxo
April 18, 2016
I am so sorry. I feel the SAME way, just had work done on one of mine, and he RUINED my arm, RUINED IT! Did not follow his OWN design on my arm, added these horrible bulky stripes of color to what was supposed to be minor outlines. I am in a constant feel of panic, crying, and disgust. AND it is on my arm, right before summer. I cannot eat or sleep. I have a consultation already at a very reputable place here on Wednesday and am praying that they can help me. Good luck to you as well.
UPDATED FROM rockchick82
Excision Decision??
rockchick82April 8, 2016
Hello lovely people,
As I mentioned earlier, I have been in a crazy state these last few days but today has been a little better. I have been able to somehow function at work and remind myself that I am the sum of all my parts, not just a tattooed arm! My identity should remain unaffected by this external mark. I try to convince myself. It is very hard as at the moment, the tattoo is healing so making itself very alive by itching and peeling.
In my frantic haste to find ways of getting rid of the ink, I had contacted a surgeon who advertises excision on his website.
Just had a skype call with him and he suggested either :
- an excision under local anesthetic with skin graft as my tattoo is big - £2,500
- an excision under general anesthetic with skin graft £3500 and maybe more due to cost of anesthetist and room
It sounds very bloody scary and very tempting as well. I was however worried and concerned when he said it didnt need for the tattoo to heal to do the work. Is this normal? I know excision is cutting the thing out so maybe it doesnt need healing...but id have thought you need the body rested before another mutilation?!
On the other hand, I also googled his name and it came up with a news story about a woman dying after one of his ops!!! Not tattoo related, butt lift I think.
So close yet so far??!
Thanks everyone for reading and commenting on my ramblings![RS bleep]
As I mentioned earlier, I have been in a crazy state these last few days but today has been a little better. I have been able to somehow function at work and remind myself that I am the sum of all my parts, not just a tattooed arm! My identity should remain unaffected by this external mark. I try to convince myself. It is very hard as at the moment, the tattoo is healing so making itself very alive by itching and peeling.
In my frantic haste to find ways of getting rid of the ink, I had contacted a surgeon who advertises excision on his website.
Just had a skype call with him and he suggested either :
- an excision under local anesthetic with skin graft as my tattoo is big - £2,500
- an excision under general anesthetic with skin graft £3500 and maybe more due to cost of anesthetist and room
It sounds very bloody scary and very tempting as well. I was however worried and concerned when he said it didnt need for the tattoo to heal to do the work. Is this normal? I know excision is cutting the thing out so maybe it doesnt need healing...but id have thought you need the body rested before another mutilation?!
On the other hand, I also googled his name and it came up with a news story about a woman dying after one of his ops!!! Not tattoo related, butt lift I think.
So close yet so far??!
Thanks everyone for reading and commenting on my ramblings![RS bleep]
Replies (5)
April 8, 2016
Oh lord that sounds like a very bad idea to me. It might remove the tattoo, but probably leave you with a HUGE scar. I would suggest you try out some sessions with laser instead. Your body might respond very good to it.
April 8, 2016
Hey, you are right, I am being very impatient. I will wait till I see Wayne at the Reset Room on Tuesday.
Thank you very much for listening to me, I managed to get some sleep last night :-)
Thank you very much for listening to me, I managed to get some sleep last night :-)
April 8, 2016
If you're feeling a little uneasy about this surgeon, maybe it's a good thing. Are you sure it's the same surgeon that's in the article you read? Does he have online reviews? Yelp?
April 8, 2016
Yes, he seemed very eager doing the 'chopping' just looking at my arm through Skype. Have a wierd feeling. No reviews which is a bad sign too!!
I dont know if I can post links but he was in the Daily Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3190582/Posing-proudly-son-s-wedding-British-woman-die-controversial-8-000-curve-enhancement.html) That's a no!
I dont know if I can post links but he was in the Daily Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3190582/Posing-proudly-son-s-wedding-British-woman-die-controversial-8-000-curve-enhancement.html) That's a no!
April 8, 2016
I really know how you feel, I'm in that state of panic and would do anything to get rid of this thing but that surgery doesn't sound good to me. Although I would nearly consider cutting of my own arm at the minute!! Haha!!
April 8, 2016
Oh man, i know that feeling but me dying from an infection and you ending up with one arm left do not sound like enjoyable solutions ! ;-)
I wish I could be more positive but to be honest, I have read the reviews inside out as well as exhausted my eyes on google pics... but it seems that successful lasering only happens for black ink only tattoos and very old tattoos. Umpf.
How old is yours? I bet you its a lovely one! Have you discussed options for finishing up the sleeve? What is it you dont like about yours?
I wish I could be more positive but to be honest, I have read the reviews inside out as well as exhausted my eyes on google pics... but it seems that successful lasering only happens for black ink only tattoos and very old tattoos. Umpf.
How old is yours? I bet you its a lovely one! Have you discussed options for finishing up the sleeve? What is it you dont like about yours?
April 8, 2016
How have come to the conclusion that lasers only work on black and old tats? The picosure/picoway work on ALL colours. With the older lasers some do the greens, some do the reds. Older tats only seem to work better because they are already faded. Newer tats actually are better because the inks not completely set right into the skin. Like I said before, lasers work differently on all people. Some people respond well, others need more time.
My tat is black, grey, flesh tones, purple, green, yellow, orange and red. All colours that will be smashed by the Pico. Its just a time thing now.
Stop worrying yourself :) laser do work!
My tat is black, grey, flesh tones, purple, green, yellow, orange and red. All colours that will be smashed by the Pico. Its just a time thing now.
Stop worrying yourself :) laser do work!
April 9, 2016
I think yours is definitely possible. My tattoo is only about 5 weeks old, it not finished so it looks even worse. It's was supposed to be black and grey but stupidly got turned to colour last minute. It looks really cartoony, the artist says let him finish it and it will be fine but I can't. I know now it was not the design I liked but the black and grey style, it's so far from what I wanted in the first place. I really think yours could be removed and at least it's a nice tasteful tattoo.
April 9, 2016
Ha i love the 'smashed by the pico' !! I hope so and thanks. It is just that i have been googling the hell out of this business and there are no real case studies on laser being done on 'fresh' colourful tats. So that'll be you and me then :-)
April 8, 2016
Excision leaves a scar and with a tattoo that size, I think it would be a very sizeable scar. I think the clinic offering picosure seems really expensive that you mentioned earlier. I would keep researching and calling clinics. I've been doing Picosure and it's removing it, but slower than I would like. I have a review that you can read and I'll be updating it this weekend when I have more time.
April 9, 2016
At the time i made the call, I was totally fine with one scar ... but then this guy talked about 3 scars (a massive one for the core tattoo, then small for one of the leaves that goes in the inner arm and an another one for the bottom leaf)....and he was so ready to chop my arm, i was like 'come on' this is not right!! So I will try and be patient until tuesday.... Thanks for your review !!
April 9, 2016
I hope you'll feel better soon! It's not a good idea to rush into another huge decision so be sure to give yourself some time to let the steam off. I couldn't eat nor sleep for a week after I started having my tattoo regret, but now I feel better. And you will too. Remember that you're not alone in this! :)
April 9, 2016
Thank you :-) I read your review and I think you will be absolutely fine! Small tattoo and no colors -- you'll be rid of it if you want too! Though I think yours is lovely and understated...but thats up to you of course :-)
UPDATED FROM rockchick82
Information about Pico
rockchick82April 6, 2016
So today I had information back from a Clinic in Burnley which sounds very professional - Andrea Catton.
The lady gave me loads of info as I was worried about the pink...
Hi Rockchick82,
Thank you for your enquiry and providing the photo, you are correct we always advise a minimum of 3 months to start the removal process to ensure it will work. We use 2 lasers, the PicoSure (which is the most advanced tattoo removal laser in the world) and the RevLite (which an extremely efficient high-end 'traditional' laser). The PicoSure can treat every colour of your tattoo and Revlite will be able to remove most of the colour but the blue that is mixed with the red to make the purple will be left. The PicoSure can always treat this at the end.
The PicoSure usually removes tattoos in around 4 - 6 treatments and the RevLite around 10 - 12.
I would put your tattoo in our 'Large' category which is £800 per treatment using the PicoSure or £200 per treatment using the Revlite.
We also offer discount if you buy PicoSure packages. Buy 3 and get 10% off or Buy 4 and get 5th FREE.
You can also change between lasers - you don't have to stick with the same one, as long as there has been enough time between treatments you can change systems.
Yes the PicoSure can treat all colours, it has 2 separate heads, one head has a red laser which can treat and see all colours including green and blue but it cannot see red ink or pinks. But then it has a separate head which has a green laser and uses a different wave length so it can treat red and pink ink.
So no matter what colour of ink you have the PicoSure can treat it, I hope this has helped and reassures you.
Now..sales pitch or real story? Again, I havent seen tattoos completely removed, and this clinic is miles away from me. But some light at the end of the tunnel? £800 x 6 or more....What have i done...
The lady gave me loads of info as I was worried about the pink...
Hi Rockchick82,
Thank you for your enquiry and providing the photo, you are correct we always advise a minimum of 3 months to start the removal process to ensure it will work. We use 2 lasers, the PicoSure (which is the most advanced tattoo removal laser in the world) and the RevLite (which an extremely efficient high-end 'traditional' laser). The PicoSure can treat every colour of your tattoo and Revlite will be able to remove most of the colour but the blue that is mixed with the red to make the purple will be left. The PicoSure can always treat this at the end.
The PicoSure usually removes tattoos in around 4 - 6 treatments and the RevLite around 10 - 12.
I would put your tattoo in our 'Large' category which is £800 per treatment using the PicoSure or £200 per treatment using the Revlite.
We also offer discount if you buy PicoSure packages. Buy 3 and get 10% off or Buy 4 and get 5th FREE.
You can also change between lasers - you don't have to stick with the same one, as long as there has been enough time between treatments you can change systems.
Yes the PicoSure can treat all colours, it has 2 separate heads, one head has a red laser which can treat and see all colours including green and blue but it cannot see red ink or pinks. But then it has a separate head which has a green laser and uses a different wave length so it can treat red and pink ink.
So no matter what colour of ink you have the PicoSure can treat it, I hope this has helped and reassures you.
Now..sales pitch or real story? Again, I havent seen tattoos completely removed, and this clinic is miles away from me. But some light at the end of the tunnel? £800 x 6 or more....What have i done...
Replies (5)
April 6, 2016
That's the thing about lasers, they're so unpredictable..and there is no way to tell what result you will get in the end. Everyone's different, she should have mentioned that.
April 7, 2016
Yes I wont see her, it is crazy expensive as well !! I feel like it is false advertising in a way. I would love to see some real results on a similar tattoo as mine.
April 6, 2016
Hi there!
You definitely are not alone! I recently got a tattoo done on my arm. Had planned it for years but has not turned out how I wanted. Its too big, on my bicep and too dark. At first I bloody freaked out. For weeks I stalked the internet trying to find hope that it can be removed, panicking, even looking at ways to cut it off (obviously not something I would have actually done). I looked at everyone else's lovely bare, untainted arm "what have I done?" " I wish I could go back and not had it done" blah blah. I was a MESS for weeks. Now, two months on I have made peace. The ink has settled and things are so much better. I see things clearly and my tattoo now feels like it has always been there.
I am still going to have it removed because it isn't what I wanted and I want to change it. Wayne is going to be treating me from the Reset Room London. He has been fantastic! When I emailed him with panicked photos and cries for help he was supportive and informative. I'm almost excited to see him now! I'm looking forward to starting the removal process....and it is just that - a long process! Your body will be working to remove the ink particles that get blasted by the laser. I'm seeing it as a kick start to being healthier (to help my lymphatic system ie drinking more water, green tea, raw veg, jumping/exercising) but remember, everyone will respond differently. Some people fly through laser removal, other people need more time. I've heard lots of crap about so and so colours aren't removable, or old/new tatts are harder/easier. There are lots of anecdotes on the internet but take it all with a pinch of salt.
There is loads of great support here! Tattoo is regret is real and terrifying but given time things get better and you learn to accept your situation.
I will say that, in my opinion, Andrea Catton is very very expensive! I think mainly because she has been on BodyShockers on BBC3 ( I think it was). Not sure there is any need for her to charge so much for using the Pico! The choice is yours though!
It is your body and your life but at the end of day its just a tattoo.... :)
You definitely are not alone! I recently got a tattoo done on my arm. Had planned it for years but has not turned out how I wanted. Its too big, on my bicep and too dark. At first I bloody freaked out. For weeks I stalked the internet trying to find hope that it can be removed, panicking, even looking at ways to cut it off (obviously not something I would have actually done). I looked at everyone else's lovely bare, untainted arm "what have I done?" " I wish I could go back and not had it done" blah blah. I was a MESS for weeks. Now, two months on I have made peace. The ink has settled and things are so much better. I see things clearly and my tattoo now feels like it has always been there.
I am still going to have it removed because it isn't what I wanted and I want to change it. Wayne is going to be treating me from the Reset Room London. He has been fantastic! When I emailed him with panicked photos and cries for help he was supportive and informative. I'm almost excited to see him now! I'm looking forward to starting the removal process....and it is just that - a long process! Your body will be working to remove the ink particles that get blasted by the laser. I'm seeing it as a kick start to being healthier (to help my lymphatic system ie drinking more water, green tea, raw veg, jumping/exercising) but remember, everyone will respond differently. Some people fly through laser removal, other people need more time. I've heard lots of crap about so and so colours aren't removable, or old/new tatts are harder/easier. There are lots of anecdotes on the internet but take it all with a pinch of salt.
There is loads of great support here! Tattoo is regret is real and terrifying but given time things get better and you learn to accept your situation.
I will say that, in my opinion, Andrea Catton is very very expensive! I think mainly because she has been on BodyShockers on BBC3 ( I think it was). Not sure there is any need for her to charge so much for using the Pico! The choice is yours though!
It is your body and your life but at the end of day its just a tattoo.... :)
April 7, 2016
hi Adrasteia!!
Thanks so much for your comment !! I am planning to see Wayne on tuesday...I really hope that this will put my mind at ease because right now, I have also emailed surgeons for surgical excision (though i think my tattoo is too big for that).
Andrea Catton is ridiculously expensive, I earn decent money but that made my heart sink -- also I live in London so that would mean going to Manchester etc... Cannot do that.
My issue is that it is not just a tattoo for me and I cannot just see it that way..it is so big and obvious, I think i would be sort of less depressed if I had it on my back. Right now, this is making me want to do stupid things. In a positive way, i realise now that I loved myself before, I just didnt know it. I cannot tell you (well I guess you and everyone else is in the same boat :)) how much I miss my plain cute boring skin! Lesson learnt!! Love your skin !!
I am looking forward to reading your updates!!!
Thanks so much for your comment !! I am planning to see Wayne on tuesday...I really hope that this will put my mind at ease because right now, I have also emailed surgeons for surgical excision (though i think my tattoo is too big for that).
Andrea Catton is ridiculously expensive, I earn decent money but that made my heart sink -- also I live in London so that would mean going to Manchester etc... Cannot do that.
My issue is that it is not just a tattoo for me and I cannot just see it that way..it is so big and obvious, I think i would be sort of less depressed if I had it on my back. Right now, this is making me want to do stupid things. In a positive way, i realise now that I loved myself before, I just didnt know it. I cannot tell you (well I guess you and everyone else is in the same boat :)) how much I miss my plain cute boring skin! Lesson learnt!! Love your skin !!
I am looking forward to reading your updates!!!
April 8, 2016
Aw bless you! Seriously, I was there...in the same mind space as you for a few weeks. You will go up and down on a 'fun' rollercoaster of emotions but I promise you, it will pass. Your mind calms down and a sort of acceptance sets in. I don't mean that you will LOVE your tatt...definitely not (although you might which would be great, its a lovely tattoo), but the urgency of removal and the reality of situation is sets in.
You can remove your tattoo....definitely....all colours even white and calcified colours are removable. However, it will take a lot of time, maybe 2-3 years for complete removal. You will need to wait 3 months between each session and look after your body. More water, exercise, plenty of sleep and NO STRESS! Stress is bad for the lymphatic system and you will need yours working well and effectively.
Your tattoo is too big for a successful excision I think, but then I am no Dr.
Try not to panic and talk to someone if you feel like it is all getting too much. Time is your ally now. Don't worry, everything will be ok!
You can remove your tattoo....definitely....all colours even white and calcified colours are removable. However, it will take a lot of time, maybe 2-3 years for complete removal. You will need to wait 3 months between each session and look after your body. More water, exercise, plenty of sleep and NO STRESS! Stress is bad for the lymphatic system and you will need yours working well and effectively.
Your tattoo is too big for a successful excision I think, but then I am no Dr.
Try not to panic and talk to someone if you feel like it is all getting too much. Time is your ally now. Don't worry, everything will be ok!
April 8, 2016
Great advice, I'm in the same boat with the emotions, it's so difficult at times. I'm in a worse situation, I have a half finished sleeve with loads of colour and I can't bring myself to get it finished because I know I hate the design and the colour.
April 8, 2016
Thank you, I really appreciate it and this site has been an absolute godsend. I feel so much better knowing I am not alone in this. Thank you!
It's just so unfathomable that a 3 hour mistake could take 2-3 years to fix but hey at the end of the day, it is a big lesson. Also i keep remindind myself of people who have to go to chemotherapy and this sort of stuff.
I know we all feel bad, but at the end of the day, we still have our 'painted' limbs!
So have you successfully removed a tattoo? xo
It's just so unfathomable that a 3 hour mistake could take 2-3 years to fix but hey at the end of the day, it is a big lesson. Also i keep remindind myself of people who have to go to chemotherapy and this sort of stuff.
I know we all feel bad, but at the end of the day, we still have our 'painted' limbs!
So have you successfully removed a tattoo? xo
April 8, 2016
Is your tattoo new? Is it your first tattoo? It's such a big change especially a sleeve. It can be a shock but time is the healer.
I went to another tattooist to try and improve my big tat mistake and absolutely LOVE what they've done. It's beautiful. Sometimes fighting fire with fire works :)
I went to another tattooist to try and improve my big tat mistake and absolutely LOVE what they've done. It's beautiful. Sometimes fighting fire with fire works :)
April 8, 2016
Sorry....that message was for JonnyHanna....its late and I should be in bed haha.
I think that's my biggest gripe now that it took two hours and £150 to screw me over mentally, emotionally and financially. So crazy! Knowing that tattoo regret is real and common really helps. I've got a few old tats and I love those (even though they're old and meaningless) but this new one completely did a number on me.
Seriously, you do come out the other side.
Let us know how Tuesday goes x
I think that's my biggest gripe now that it took two hours and £150 to screw me over mentally, emotionally and financially. So crazy! Knowing that tattoo regret is real and common really helps. I've got a few old tats and I love those (even though they're old and meaningless) but this new one completely did a number on me.
Seriously, you do come out the other side.
Let us know how Tuesday goes x
April 9, 2016
Hi, it's a Japanese half sleeve that is a cover up of an old tattoo. It was supposed to be black and grey but it snowballed into colour last minute, I really hate the colour and it highlighted the design is poor. I know I will never like it, I think it looks to comic book but I don't think it's realistic to remove.
April 9, 2016
Have you thought about getting the colour only lasered? Thats definitely a possibilty! And then go and find someone who can shade/tidy up in grey/black shading? Its difficult because you can always see it but you're five weeks in....give it a bit more time and you might find peace with it. Go and see a laser clinic about targetted treatment. Chin up buddy....itll be ok :) x
April 9, 2016
Yes I have thought about removing the colour, if I start laser treatments I might start with getting the green out and go from there. Thanks for the support it really is a horrible situation to be in.
April 7, 2016
That's great you have hope again, I was told 6 to 8 treatment but I would have to spit the tattoo into 2 or 3!! I think the number of treatment these places say are very optimistic but we have to start somewhere!!
April 7, 2016
You are absolutely right!! We have to start somewhere, and it is a journey that cannot be compromised. Patience will be key :-)
Are you committed to starting it now? Which laser are you going to use?
Are you committed to starting it now? Which laser are you going to use?
April 7, 2016
Hi, no I haven't committed to anything yet. I'm on a roller coaster at the minute, I want it gone but I know it's not likely so I might have to get it finished and live with it.
April 7, 2016
WOW! I thought pico-laser treatments was expensive here in my country, but that is way overpriced. I would check out the prices in other clinics with pico lasers. I would say that my tattoo is even bigger than yours and I am not paying that much. The standard price was 300GBP (converted from NOK) per treatment, but I bought 6 treatments as a package and paid 215 GBP per treatment.
April 7, 2016
Thanks for the update!! Yes I think it's crazy expensive and in my earlier in the week crazy state, it didn't matter lol
May I ask how is Pico for you? Do you recommend it? Am talking to surgeons about excisions...
May I ask how is Pico for you? Do you recommend it? Am talking to surgeons about excisions...
April 7, 2016
I have had 2 treatments done with Picoway. You can follow my progress on my profile. Just had the 2nd treatment yesterday and will post an update as soon as I can take the compress off.
April 9, 2016
Picosure can definitely do what she says it can, however, 4-6 treatments might be a stretch. My doctor said usually 6-8 and explained that depending on my body and the ink its never a guarantee. That being said I think the discount if you can buy multiple, is the way to go. I paid ahead of time and used a 0 interest credit card...
I wouldn't take the excision route right away. I would wait and see if there are areas that don't lift and save that procedure for then. My tattoos have been lifting pretty fast, but I have a solid black star that isn't lifting well. I might have that one cut out once the rest of mine are faded.
I wouldn't take the excision route right away. I would wait and see if there are areas that don't lift and save that procedure for then. My tattoos have been lifting pretty fast, but I have a solid black star that isn't lifting well. I might have that one cut out once the rest of mine are faded.
April 9, 2016
Hello! I am seeing Wayne at the Reset Room in London on Tuesday, hopefully his prices will be more reasonable. I have only heard good things about him !
I am actually quite angry now at the surgeon; he was so eager to chop me, it didnt seem professional at all... Definitely a no-no people.
I am actually quite angry now at the surgeon; he was so eager to chop me, it didnt seem professional at all... Definitely a no-no people.
April 9, 2016
Is this Eliminink? where a saline solution is 'tattooed' to get the ink out? I have read loads about it as well, doesnt sound good and lots of scarring... I think this may work for tiny tiny tats.
April 9, 2016
Good decision! I was very surprised to hear the surgeon was so eager to get you in right away! I think you will feel better talking to a Laser Professional face to face as well! Good luck on Tuesday! I hope you get some good information!
April 9, 2016
No it's a new method that's supposedly coming early 2017, it can clear tattoos in one hit. Google erasetm tattoo removal
April 9, 2016
Oh I cant find anything...but sounds interesting, can you please message me a link?
April 9, 2016
Thank you! I think the surgeon is definitely money hungry - i asked 3 other surgeons and they said no straight away due to the size of the tattoo. I shudder to think what he has told other people with weakened mental states :(
But as you said, there is an option, lets try it! I will go for a pico session end of may and then will decide the next course of action after that. When are you trying yours?