Tissue Expansion Tattoo Removal
It’s not as popular as other methods, but tissue expansion is just as effective when removing a tattoo. Also known as staged excision, a balloon is inserted and inflated under the skin. Over the next three months, the skin grows and stretches. The tattoo is then cut out in sections, leaving minimal scarring, usually a linear scar. Working best on the face, neck, arms, legs and hands, tissue expansion is a simple process that doesn’t work well on the back, torso or other areas of the body that has thick skin.
Anyone in need of extra skin can benefit from tissue expansion. Healthy skin is required for the procedure so if you're skin is damaged or scarred in any way you might want to check into other methods of tattoo removal. It’s a great procedure though, since the skin remains connected to the donor area’s blood and nerve supply. Patients also benefit since you’ll get an almost perfect match to skin tone, color, texture and hair bearing qualities. Leaks can occur but the saline is usually harmless to the body, absorbing over time into the blood stream. Additional surgery would be required to replace the balloon, but just like the first time, it’s quick and almost painless. Occasionally infections occur around the balloon and surgery is required to remove the balloon while the infection heals, then replacing the balloon in its original location.
The cost of this procedure should be discussed with your doctor. Some doctors accept insurance since it’s also known as a reconstructive procedure. But there is a fine line, some people will argue it’s a cosmetic procedure, which isn’t covered by insurance. Do your homework; make sure you choose a physician who is experienced and familiar with tissue expansion in the form of tattoo removal.
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