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POSTED UNDER PicoSure REVIEWS

Considering Removal of my 3-week-old Tattoo - Los Angeles, CA

ORIGINAL POST

This afternoon is my first consultation with a...

emilyrw2
$250
This afternoon is my first consultation with a Picosure doctor. I got this tattoo 3 weeks ago and as soon as I left the tattoo shop I was filled with this sense of dread. I had wanted more of an illustration style, but I went along with this image as I thought it looked great when the artist drew it out. But, when I left the shop and looked at the photos of the tattoo on my phone, I felt sick. It was not at all what I imagined. And I had only myself to blame... I didn't speak up! The bird was supposed to symbolize my bond with my best friend - she has swallows on her chest. I showed it to her and she loved it, but I just felt embarrassed.

Some days I like it, other days I just want it gone. Everyone I've shown it to, loves it. It's a very pretty tattoo, and if I saw it on someone else, I'd love it. I just worry that it's not the right fit for me. I am definitely going to give it time and see if I grow to love it. But for peace of mind I want to at least see what the cost and process would be for removal, just to weigh my options. I'll check back in if I do decide to go ahead with removal!

Reading all the stories on this website has given me so much comfort, knowing how many others are going through this but are not letting it ruin their sense of self-worth or confidence. I never thought I'd be in this position, but did any of us?!

Replies (11)

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October 9, 2015

No we didn't! It's pretty shocking to feel this way after getting something that you wanted, it leaves a pretty tight knot in your stomach. As you said, your tattoo is really nice, so I am glad that you are allowing yourself some time to think about your options and joined us to talk about how you're feeling -- I know that you will get tons of support here from people at varying stages of removal or regret. Please keep us posted on how you're doing and what you decide.

October 10, 2015
Thank you, Eva! So glad to have found this website. My consultation got moved to tomorrow. I'll post again once I have a better idea of what I'm going to do.
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October 10, 2015

Great, you  may find these helpful to take with you to the consultation: PicoSure: 7 Consultation Questions You Should Ask

October 9, 2015
Wow, Emily, for what it's worth, I really think that is beautiful. I totally get it if it feels wrong... I just got my first picosure today (this website gave me the courage to go through with it) after trying to love a tattoo for two years. Like you, I filled with dread basically as soon as it was done. Other people liked it, but I just couldn't. In my case though, the artist did a really shitty job. She should be ashamed. I would shame her, but I can't even muster the energy to speak in her direction because I'm so disgusted with the hackjob she did---she's a great artist! Four month waitlist! I think she was on pills or something the day I saw her.
Anyway, just wanted to say that I've had a few complicated growing periods with various tattoos. The one I'm removing now is the only one that I didn't have a breakthrough with. One in my elbow crook absolutely killed me for like a month, but once it was totally healed, I suddenly saw it with new eyes and now I hate wearing long sleeve shirts because I want the whole world to see it!
Keep us posted. It is a really lovely sparrow you have. :)
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October 10, 2015

Hi oliviathewolfe, sorry to hear that you had a bad experience with your tattoo, I can relate to how frustrating it feels to go to an extremely talented artist and be disappointed with their work. The guy I saw had a terrific portfolio, was featured in magazines and worked at a very reputable shop, but for some reason that day he didn't perform -  it really stings to be that person and to look at his other work and see how great it is! I am glad that you found RealSelf and have found the community helpful in making your decision - be sure to start a review so that we can support you through your journey. Good luck! :)   

October 10, 2015
Olivia, thank you for your kind words! I'm really sorry that your artist did a shitty job on your tattoo, what an awful feeling. Total disconnect from your body, right? I'm glad to hear that you grew to love all of your other tattoos, though. It gives me hope that I'll not want to cover mine up with long sleeves!

How did your first appointment go today? Did the doctor say how many sessions you'll need? Good luck to you -- keep posting and share your process!
October 20, 2015
No one did think like this...everyone thought that this is something thay thougt through and were ready for! I thought about getting my tat for more than a year and anyway having second thoughts, it is just hard to accept anything on your skin...you need to give yourself time to process things and stay positive! For your information - your tattoo is very removable if it is comforting :) take care!
October 25, 2015
Sounds like my story. When the artist drew it I swear it was smaller and in a different spot on my shoulder. I am considering removal. I had one done 6 months ago that I totally love and thought I was ready for another one. I went in with a plan and got talked into something else. Have been sick with anxiety for days. It's my fault, I know. But I also know I have choices if I want it removed so that helps.