2008 Woodie Awards
Tattoos may not be worth it in the end
Tanya Rossman
Issue date: 4/29/04 Section: Feature
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Another way people deal with an unwanted tattoo is by covering an existing piece instead of removing it. This procedure is done by simply placing a darker tattoo over the original. This works best when the tattoo being covered is small and light in color. The cost of this procedure varies depending on where it is performed.
If you're looking for a removal that can be done with without taking months, excision may be for you. This is a one-time procedure which is preformed by surgically cutting the skin around the area of the tattoo and then stitching the remaining skin back together. This procedure is strictly for very small tattoos and does leave a thin line scar. The Northland Skin Clinic in Cedar Rapids offers this technique starting at $400. To set up an appointment call 373-3009.
Using lasers and pulsed light is a relatively new technique that breaks up the ink pigments. The University of Iowa Hospital of Dermatology offers this procedure.
This removal process can take up to two years to fully remove a tattoo and only works on blue, black or green inks. The costs start at $90 for the evaluation (which must be paid prior to scheduling) and $178 for the appointment (also paid prior). Appointments are repeated every eight weeks until gone.
If you're looking for a removal that can be done with without taking months, excision may be for you. This is a one-time procedure which is preformed by surgically cutting the skin around the area of the tattoo and then stitching the remaining skin back together. This procedure is strictly for very small tattoos and does leave a thin line scar. The Northland Skin Clinic in Cedar Rapids offers this technique starting at $400. To set up an appointment call 373-3009.
Using lasers and pulsed light is a relatively new technique that breaks up the ink pigments. The University of Iowa Hospital of Dermatology offers this procedure.
This removal process can take up to two years to fully remove a tattoo and only works on blue, black or green inks. The costs start at $90 for the evaluation (which must be paid prior to scheduling) and $178 for the appointment (also paid prior). Appointments are repeated every eight weeks until gone.