What is surgical tattoo removal:
Surgical tattoo removal is an alternative to laser tattoo removal and is suitable for small tattoos.
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It offers quick and immediate results when compared to laser where multiple treatments at intervals are often required.
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It is performed as a day case at our Leeds clinic under local anaesthetic so that you can return home the very same day.
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Please note: the tattoo must be smaller than 5cm.
Tattoo removal recovery process:
After surgical tattoo removal, we will use dissolving stitches in most cases which will dissolve in time. The surgical wound will typically heal in around 2 weeks and depending on your bodies natural healing process, the scar will take 2-3 months to fade.
What happens during a surgical tattoo removal:
During surgical tattoo removal, our consultant plastic surgeon will totally numb the treatment area with local anaesthetic, meaning that you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
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A scalpel is used to cut around the circumference of the tattoo and the wound is closed with sutures to leave just a fine line in the place of the tattoo.
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The time taken to surgically remove a tattoo is 20-30 minutes, and you will be able to return home shortly after your procedure.
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Following the surgery, we will require you to attend a follow up with our team one week after the procedure to change your dressing and perform a post op check up to ensure everything is settling down.
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Who will perform the minor surgery:
​Mr Ian Smith
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With over 10 years’ experience in his field, Mr Ian Smith is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.
He holds his consultant post at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, working at both the Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s Hospital. Mr Smith is also an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Leeds.
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Mr Smith's private practice with Skinfinity is based at our purpose built Thorpe Park Clinic where he performs a wide range of procedures under local anaesthetic, including surgical tattoo removal.