Tattoo Removal

Surgical excision at the Minor Surgery Clinic involves cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the surrounding skin together, making it a suitable and effective option primarily for smaller tattoos.
Tattoo Removal Price from £575

Operation Time:

30-60 Minutes

Return to work:

0-5 Days

Anaesthesia

Local

Discomfort

Minimal
Header image
Treatment

What is Tattoo Removal Surgery?

In recent years, the demand for tattoo removal has grown significantly, driven by changing personal preferences, career considerations, and evolving aesthetic trends. Surgical tattoo removal has emerged as a distinctive and effective option, especially for those seeking a swift, permanent solution. This method is particularly beneficial for individuals with larger tattoos or those resistant to other removal techniques, such as laser therapy. Surgical excision is ideal for tattoos with deeply embedded ink or stubborn colours that do not respond well to laser treatments. It is also a preferred choice for patients who want immediate results without undergoing multiple sessions. The procedure is best suited for tattoos located in areas where the skin can be easily closed after removal.

Before and After Tattoo Removal Surgery
One of the key advantages of surgical tattoo removal is the immediacy of results—unlike laser treatments that require several appointments over months, surgical excision removes the tattoo in a single procedure. It is effective regardless of the tattoo’s colour intensity or ink depth, and carries a lower risk of post-treatment skin discolouration, as the tattooed skin is completely removed. For smaller tattoos, surgical removal can also be more cost-effective compared to repeated laser sessions. With careful technique, the procedure is performed to minimise scarring and promote smooth healing, offering a more aesthetically pleasing outcome. Suitability for surgical tattoo removal depends on factors such as tattoo size, location, ink depth, skin type, and overall health. Smaller tattoos or those in easily sutured areas yield the best results, while larger tattoos may require staged procedures. Additionally, individuals with a history of keloid scarring or skin conditions that affect healing may need a more cautious approach. A thorough assessment by a qualified professional is essential to determine whether surgical removal is the best choice. For those exploring tattoo removal options, surgical excision offers a reliable, one-time solution, particularly when other methods have proven ineffective.

What is the process?

Surgical tattoo removal at the Minor Surgery Clinic is a precise and effective method for eliminating unwanted tattoos, particularly when other treatments like laser therapy are unsuitable or ineffective. The most effective treatment for tattoo removal surgery is surgical excision, which involves physically cutting out the tattooed skin and carefully stitching the surrounding healthy skin to close the wound. This approach is especially effective for small to medium-sized tattoos, often allowing for complete removal in a single procedure with immediate results. For larger tattoos, the excision may be performed in stages to give the skin adequate time to heal between procedures. This method is particularly beneficial for tattoos with deep or stubborn ink, or those located in areas where laser treatment may not be as successful. While excision does result in a surgical scar, the precision of the technique is designed to minimise scarring and support more favourable cosmetic outcomes. Surgical tattoo excision offers a reliable and often one-time solution, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking a definitive and permanent removal of their tattoos.

What are the risks?

Regardless of how minor a surgical procedure is, there is a potential for complications. It is important that you understand these before proceeding with surgery.
  • Scarring
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Delayed Wound Healing:
  • Changes in Skin Sensation
  • Skin Discoloration
  • Keloid or Hypertrophic Scarring
  • Wound Dehiscence
  • Asymmetry or Uneven Skin Texture
  • Allergic Reaction

What is the aftercare process?

Initial Care: Keep the treated area clean, dry, and properly bandaged in the first few days. Avoid touching the wound with unwashed hands and follow all wound care instructions to reduce infection risk.

Pain Management: Some tenderness or soreness is expected after surgery. Use over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen, and avoid aspirin unless advised by your doctor.

Cleaning and Dressings: Gently cleanse the area as directed, apply prescribed ointments, change dressings regularly, and avoid swimming or soaking to prevent bacterial exposure.

Warning Signs: Watch for increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or fever—these may signal complications and need prompt medical attention.

Physical Activity: Avoid strenuous activity that may strain the surgical site. Gradually reintroduce exercise once healing is underway to protect sutures and support results.

Sun Protection: Use high-SPF sunscreen or cover the area to prevent darkening or scarring from UV rays—especially important during the first few months post-surgery.

Ongoing Care: Follow all aftercare instructions, use moisturising or silicone-based scar treatments, gently massage the area after healing, eat a nutrient-rich diet, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking to support optimal cosmetic results.

How much does Tattoo Removal Cost?

The cost of Tattoo Removal varies depending on the size and characteristics of the tattoo. The package price for tattoo removal starts from £575 which includes consultation, surgery and removal of sutures if requested.
Tattoo Removal Surgery (Small Tattoo)
From £575

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about tattoo removal surgery
What is tattoo removal surgery via excision?
Tattoo excision is a surgical method of removing a tattoo by physically cutting out the tattooed skin and stitching the remaining skin back together. It is a highly effective option, especially for smaller tattoos or those resistant to other removal methods like laser treatment.
Who is a good candidate for surgical tattoo removal?
This procedure is ideal for individuals with small to medium-sized tattoos, especially if the tattoo contains deeply embedded ink or colours that don’t respond well to laser. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about scarring and healing.
Is the procedure painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel pain during the surgery itself. Some discomfort may be experienced afterward, but it is typically manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain relief.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration of the procedure depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo. Most small to medium tattoo excisions can be completed in under an hour.
Will I have a scar after tattoo excision?
Yes, surgical removal will result in a scar. However, the size and visibility of the scar depend on the tattoo size, the surgical technique used, and how well the wound heals.
Is surgical tattoo removal better than laser removal?
It depends on your specific situation. Surgical excision provides immediate and complete removal of the tattoo, which is beneficial for certain colours or deep ink that doesn’t respond to lasers. However, it does result in a scar and is better suited for smaller tattoos.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

"Many thanks for the good job you have done. I also appreciated the relaxed manner which put me at ease."

Mrs P. Chapman
Patient

"I had three moles removed from my back by Dr Ouali , it was a good painless experience and I’m happy with the result as the scars faded away nicely."

H.S.
Patient

"I had a small amount of Vaser liposuction under my chin. Quick, painless surgery. I’m very happy and will be going back for additional procedures."

Anonymous
Patient
UK-Trained Experts

Our Lead Surgeon

Dr. Braham Ouali, MD, SCSD, is a UK-trained, award-winning surgeon with more than twenty years of experience. Since qualifying as a medical doctor in 1999, he completed a decade of NHS plastic surgery training in the United Kingdom and earned a Professional Diploma in Skin Cancer Surgery from Bond University in Melbourne, Australia. As a member of both the British Association of Cosmetic Surgeons and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Ouali has developed the expertise necessary to perform advanced procedures with precision and care.

Having personally conducted tens of thousands of surgeries, Dr. Ouali tailors each procedure to meet his patients’ individual needs and to achieve their complete satisfaction. He is particularly renowned for his work in skin surgery and body contouring, including eyelid surgery, rhinophyma treatment, earlobe reconstruction, and liposuction of the abdomen, arms, legs, and gynecomastia. His skill set also encompasses areola reduction, breast mini lift, and the removal of skin lesions—such as moles, cysts, lipomas, keloids, and skin cancers—with a special focus on facial reconstruction.

Known for his compassionate approach and meticulous technique, Dr. Ouali consistently receives “very good” feedback from both patients and colleagues. He is honoured to welcome patients to Minor Surgery Clinic, providing each individual with the highest standard of care in a warm and professional environment.

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