Tattoo Removal

Today was the fifth session of my tattoo removal on my wrist. I'm having the procedure done at MUSC. I got lucky when I went in for my consult and am having the laser surgery done by a resident. Since I'm having it done by a resident, it's half the cost of having it done by a non resident doctor. So, instead of paying $200 a session, I'm only paying $100. This process will probably take 3 more sessions. Let me tell you, it's not much fun.

First, my resident numbs my wrist by sticking needles filled with numbing medication. She probably sticks me at least 10 times. I'm not scared of needles at all, but having needles in my wrist is an absolute BITCH! This is all done at a very awkward angle, having to twist my wrist to as far to the left as possible. By the end of the session, my arm is trembling from holding it in such a weird position.

Second, we get to wear some really geeky glasses to keep our eyes safe from the laser.

Third, the resident plays with the GINORMOUS laser machine which looks HIGHLY complex.

Then, the laser starts. I don't feel anything, but you can SMELL it and see the smoke as the top layers of your skin burn. YUMMMY!

Last, my resident puts a bandage on my wrist...doctors do not know how to bandage things.

I then leave and come home and prepare myself for the pain to come after the numbing meds wear off. Anywhoo...here are the pics from today. Lovely isn't it!?!?!

Around 8PM this evening, a huge blister formed and I actually drained it because the bloody liquid was sloshing around in there and...yeah you get the pic. I won't go into that anymore. Enjoy the pics and I'll post more from my next session (9/29/08)

Moral of the story:
Research the person who tattoos you!!!