General — TransplantLyfe

General

Tattoos

AliEm14Expert
Transplant Patient
July 8, 2025 in General

So I just got another tattoo, 5 years out from a liver transplant, and I’m curious how people feel about them.

I have over a dozen now, with about half of them being post transplant. My team said none for the first year (makes sense!) but after that it was a personal choice if I wanted to take the risk. I always get labs done right before a tattoo appointment and would reschedule if I wasn’t in the best situation possible. I’m also really picky about who I go to, the cleanliness of the studio…

I’ve never had any issues, or delayed healing, though I do know that can happen. I also try to amp up on hydration, healthy eating… in the days following to support my body’s healing process.

I’m curious - would you get a tattoo and what would you get/do you have?

1 - 6 of 6 Replies

  • CaptsewerTransplant Patient

    I have no tattoos nor am I interested in getting one.

    July 8, 2025
  • TiaBeanTransplant Patient

    I had one before the transplant. Only one. I want to get another. Something with a green survivor ribbon. I do need to heal a bit longer.

    July 8, 2025
  • SteveJPearsonTransplant Patient

    I have no desire for tattoo as I am perfect the way I am!! :)


    But I have read a few articles indicating that are associated with elevated skin cancer risk. Sorry, I don't have links to any of those articles.

    July 9, 2025
  • AliEm14Expert
    Transplant Patient

    I know it’s definitely a personal choice. Personally I love tattoos and if I had my way I’d be covered but not everyone is like that šŸ˜‚

    I do know it has some increased risks. Each time is a risk benefit analysis for me, and I make the decision I (and my team) are most comfortable with. Maybe one day my health will be in a place I’ll stop, but for right now I have chosen to take on the risk

    July 9, 2025
  • TiaBeanTransplant Patient

    Taking risks can be scary, but we still have to live. I agree with @AliEm14. Discussing any risk with your transplant team can help with anxiety that comes with any risk.

    July 9, 2025
  • mrmdipTransplant Patient

    I agree with u guys on decisions if u have any issues or concerns reach out to your team better to be safe then sorry

    July 9, 2025
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