Surgical tattoo removal: removing an unwanted tattoo

Would you like to get rid of a tattoo you no longer want? Has laser removal failed or been ruled out in your case? Surgical tattoo removal may be the right solution for you. This procedure involves removing a section of skin containing the tattoo and suturing the area. It will inevitably leave a small scar. Here is everything you need to know about this aesthetic medicine technique.

Who is eligible for surgical tattoo excision?‍

Surgical tattoo removal is an alternative to laser treatment. It is mainly used when laser therapy is ineffective or contraindicated. This technique is only suitable for small to medium-sized tattoos.

In our clinic, patients who request this procedure are often those who got tattooed at a young age, acted impulsively, or now find the design meaningless, sometimes linked to a past relationship or friendship. However, many other reasons may lead you to consider tattoo removal:

• You regret a tattoo and wish to remove it for personal or aesthetic reasons.
• The tattoo was poorly executed, of low quality, or has blurred over time.
• Its visibility causes discomfort, especially in professional settings.
• The tattoo reminds you of a difficult period in your life and you want to move on.

How does surgical tattoo removal work?‍

Surgical excision is the most effective alternative to laser removal. The procedure involves cutting out the layers of skin containing the tattoo and stitching the remaining skin together, usually over a slightly larger area than the tattoo itself.

Depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo, the procedure may be performed in one or several stages. In some cases, a skin graft may be required.

As an invasive procedure, it must be carried out in a fully sterile operating room. It is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the area is pain-free. The duration of the procedure can range from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tattoo’s size and location.

Before the procedure, certain recommendations must be followed, including:

• Quitting smoking for at least 6 weeks.
• Discontinuing all blood-thinning medications 10 days before surgery.‍

‍What to expect after the procedure‍

After surgical tattoo removal, the treated area may be red and sore. Inflammation and swelling typically subside within a few days. Sutures are removed 7 to 15 days after the procedure, and a dressing is placed over the scar.

You must follow all postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon. The most common guidelines include:

• Clean the area daily and apply a healing cream to prevent infection and support recovery.
• Avoid sun exposure for several months to promote proper healing and ensure a discreet scar.
• Take any prescribed analgesics if pain becomes too intense.

When these steps are followed carefully, healing is typically smooth and results in only a small, visible mark.

What are the results of tattoo removal?‍

If laser treatment works on your tattoo, it will result in partial depigmentation. The ink will fade, but the area will appear whitened. Laser removal generally requires 3 to 10 sessions spaced two months apart, making it a long-term process.

Surgical tattoo removal, on the other hand, eliminates the tattoo entirely. However, a scar will remain, a fine, pale line where the tattoo used to be.

What are the risks of tattoo removal?‍

As with any surgical procedure, tattoo removal involves certain risks. These will be discussed with your physician during the initial consultation. Key risks include:

• Infection, which may require further surgery or additional care. Some infections can be serious.
• Poor healing of the scar, especially if the procedure is poorly executed or the skin is fragile.
• Allergic reactions to the products used during surgery or anesthesia.
• Dyschromia, a difference in skin tone between the treated and untreated areas, which can be visible and aesthetically undesirable.

How much does surgical tattoo removal cost in Belgium?‍

Surgical tattoo removal is not covered by Belgian social security or mutual insurance. You will need to cover all associated costs, including healing creams and cleansing products.

It is difficult to provide a precise price without assessing the tattoo in person. The cost depends on several factors: tattoo size and location, the technique required, and the number of sessions needed. Generally, the procedure ranges from €800 to €2,000.

Surgical tattoo removal is a valuable option if laser treatments have failed or are contraindicated. However, it is important to remember that this is an invasive procedure and will leave a scar.

A consultation with your surgeon is essential to discuss the operation, weigh the benefits and risks, and determine if this approach is suitable for you. Our physicians are available to meet with you, feel free to contact us.