POSTED UNDER Tattoo Removal REVIEWS
My Removal Journey - Midwest
ORIGINAL POST
Trying to decide whether to continue to remove the...
inactiveaccountApril 3, 2014
$270
Trying to decide whether to continue to remove the star tattoo or not. I was pretty happy with the results from the test area.
However, recently I had the full session and the area was in lots of pain for more than a week. And now I'm wondering if there's a chance that I'll go through all of this and won't be gone at the end of the day. Also, there is a tattoo underneath this one. I know that one won't go away..but the original tattoo is 20% the size of the star and so I was hoping to get it covered up with something much smaller.
I also am getting some words on the back of my neck removed. This has no been painful or a big deal .
However, recently I had the full session and the area was in lots of pain for more than a week. And now I'm wondering if there's a chance that I'll go through all of this and won't be gone at the end of the day. Also, there is a tattoo underneath this one. I know that one won't go away..but the original tattoo is 20% the size of the star and so I was hoping to get it covered up with something much smaller.
I also am getting some words on the back of my neck removed. This has no been painful or a big deal .
UPDATED FROM inactiveaccount
18 days post
update
inactiveaccountApril 4, 2014
Is this normal? This is what my tattoo looks like as of today.
Replies (15)
April 4, 2014
It will peel and be flakey for a week or so, then slowly return to normal. This is the time I apply lots of coconut and calendula oils- to keep it from drying out and aid in repair.
Also, what laser are you being treated with? I think you'll have success with the black ink.
April 4, 2014
Thanks for the reassurance and info. My doctor gave me NO aftercare instructions or what to expect. Maybe I'll pick up some coconut oil today. The first picture is from when he did the test area and that never ended up looking like this and wasn't painful at all!
April 5, 2014
That how mine looked the first time it was lasered. The entire inked area became grey with some fluid underneath, it all sloughed off. Keep hydrated both internally and externally and seek professional medical assistance if you suspect an infection. You certainly look like you are getting some wonderful fading. Black ink on fair skin is best removed and you should have some good fading. It's hard to stay positive and remain patient, but it is definitely worth it. much aloha...k
April 5, 2014
Thanks for the kind words Kahelelani. Did you experience much pain/discomfort after your laser session?
April 7, 2014
The clinic I go to does lidocaine shots as part of the treatment. They do not want you to be in any pain. So I don't have any discomfort, I don't feel a thing. I keep the bandage on for 48 hours, then reapply ointment and bandage again. Although, the last time I was zapped, I had extra depressed feelings, but this is all normal, and didn't last more than a few moments. If the clinic where you go doesn't off lidocaine shots, there are numbing creams that can take the edge off. Most clinics have cooling machines. And if all else fails, just remember that it's only for a brief amount of time. Stay focused on that, and know that we're all supporting you. good luck...aloha...k
April 7, 2014
Mine did lidocaine shots as well...but the discomfort I've been in the weeks sense.
Speaking of which, another doctor on this site recommends not using the shots, but the nurse that helps my doctor out said that the creams don't do much and they only do the shots. I'm thinking about buying my own cream anyway or going w/out anything next time just to be safe.
April 8, 2014
Yes, I've read the controversy over "to have or not to have" lidocaine shots. I've heard that the shots cause swelling and laser can't get to the ink. But I've tried not having the shots and the laser really hurts. I didn't see much difference in fading when I didn't have the shots. But more importantly, you mention you've been in discomfort for weeks since the lasering. It could be the location on your body, the wrist moves quite a bit, and maybe healing is lengthy with the movement. You mentioned the back of your neck isn't painful. Our wrists, hands, and fingers are very sensitive. We use them so much. I know, I just banged my thumb in the car door, and it's amazing how much it hurts, plus the many things I use the thumb for. If you're still in discomfort, I would seek professional advice. good luck...aloha...k
April 9, 2014
The location is the ankle, but your point is well taken. It is perhaps from all the movement that is causing the discomfort
April 10, 2014
yes, and ankles can be very tricky with healing. Think about all the swelling from standing and sitting and rubbing against socks...etc etc. I have kept my feet elevated after getting my foot tattoo (which I adore) so maybe elevating the feet might help. Put your feet up, relax, watch a good movie, read a lovely book.
April 6, 2014
Welcome, so glad you decided to share your journey with us - look forward to following your progress and you will certainly receive a ton of support from the community :) Good Luck!
UPDATED FROM inactiveaccount
21 days post
Updated photo
inactiveaccountApril 7, 2014
Just took this photo a few minutes ago. It's crazy how you can kind of see the old tattoo underneath this one.
Replies (3)
April 7, 2014
I think the fact that you are already seeing your old tattoo after just one treatment (especially on a dense, black tattoo!) is really good sign! And the thin line surrounding the star is already breaking up! Why does your tech not think you would be able to get rid of the old tattoo underneath? If it's red, it would have to be treated with a different wavelength, but it seems like that would be very possible to get rid of, too.
April 8, 2014
Yeah he didn't say why. Maybe he's not expecting as much progress as I'm having? I was going to ask him to re-evaluate his opinion the next time I go in. Personally, I'm surprised to be able to see it kind of already.
Yeah I noticed the thin line is already breaking in several places, so I'm optimistic.
April 8, 2014
I agree ap1191 - seeing the old tattoo is a very promising sign! Very supportive comment :)
Replies (0)