INTRODUCTION
While laser technology has developed and advanced, laser tattoo removal may not be a suitable option due to cost, availability of the nature of the tattoo. Surgery may be an alternative. This may involve a simple excision or it may require a skin graft. Your surgeon will discuss the techniques and approach at your consultation.
TATTOO REMOVAL PROCEDURE
| Operation time | 0.5 - 1 hrs |
| Anaesthesia | local |
| Nights in hospital | day case |
| Risks - common | bruising, swelling, redness |
| Risks - uncommon | infection, excessive scarring, asymmetry, bleeding, delayed wound healing, residual tattoo pigment |
| Pain and discomfort | 1 - 3 days |
| Follow-up after surgery | 1 week |
| Time off work | 0 |
| Sports | 2 weeks - walking 4 weeks - everything |
| Result | 12 weeks until final result |
FEES
Small (less than 2 cm) - from £900
Medium (2 to 4 cm) - from £1,150
Large (more than 4 cm) - from £1,500
Complex (more than 10 cm) - from £1,800
SKIN LESION SURGERY INFORMED CONSENT FORM
EXCISION OF LESIONS CORRECTION
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
Instructions on discharge
- The local anaesthetic will wear off approximately 1 hour after the procedure.
- Paracetamol can be taken once the local anaesthetic has worn off.
- If the surgery was to the head, sleep with the head slightly elevated on a few pillows for the first week and avoid bending with the head down.
Dressing clinic
- No restrictions but avoid strenuous activities for the first week.
Activities
- No restrictions but avoid strenuous activities for the first week.
Wound care
- The wound can be very gently washed and then pat dry.
IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS OR HAVE ANY QUERIES FOLLOWING YOUR SURGERY PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT THE WARD.