Tattoo Done ? Ink

[JohnnySouthside]

Hi everyone was looking at getting a tattoo done but when I ask around I get told it's to dangerous and risky, as I'm on warafin for life does this mean it's impossible for me to get one done?

[HollyHeski Administrator]

Hi, it's worth talking to your APS specialist. Because of the risk of bleeding and infection docters are very wary.

If you are determined and know the risks, you would probably need a bridging plan as if you are having surgery, which also your doctor's may not agree to?

If you go ahead make sure you research the tattoo parlour and discuss fully with the person doing the tattoo.

[MaryF Administrator]

Many on here have had a one done, but please don't do it without the guidance of your main Hughes Syndrome/APS specialist. MaryF

[KellyInTexas Administrator]

I know it’s so frustrating to always be told yet one more thing you can’t do or have...

I can only share with you my one and only very brief encounter with this.

When I was first diadnosed all most 4 years ago, a very good rheumatologist asked me during my first appointment if I had any tattoos.

I told him no, and he said that from an auto immune standpoint that was good- made it easier to rule other things out- ( if sterilization is not impeccable) and the ink is not great of immune system either as it’s foreign and some patients can really be reactive to it.

That’s as far as the conversation went.

The only thought I have on this to the contrary: I know there are actually medical grade tattoos. There are women who have had breast cancer and get a breast implant / reconstructive surgery.

Oncologist / plastic surgeons refer them to highly specialized medical tattoo artists to tattoo nipples .

Also- plastic surgeons work with them in pediatrics to minimize port wine stains.

I’m not sure if they take “elective” cases.

[myarabella]

Just my opinion, but I would not dare get a tattoo with any autoimmune condition, particularly one that is blood related such as APS. Also, I was diagnosed many year ago to be allergic to iodine. I do not know if this is a common allergy with APS patients, but I am pretty certain all tattoo ink contains iodine and who knows what else. Not worth it!

[Stereolover]

I’ve had all my tattoos since being diagnosed but the difference is I’m not taking warfarin. Maybe your GP can tell you? If not your consultant?

[Apples2000]

Hi there, I started on Warfarin three months ago. I asked my doctor about two months ago about a few things I was hoping to do, again. Skydiving and tattooing were two of them and she said no. She said it is not a good idea. I don't drink anymore so that doesnt pertain to me. But it does stink to continue having a list of things you cannot do. I was pretty bothered for a few days. I don't like being restricted. Its just all adjustments, I guess. I would REALLY think about getting a tattoo and talk to your doctor, if I were you. Take care

[lloydyuk]

I’ve had several since being diagnosed (I didn’t have any before!) however as mentioned I did discuss it with my rheumatologist first & she had no problem (she did cross check with a colleague to be doubly sure) her view was that whilst there may be excess bleeding it shouldn’t be too different from normal as a tattoo is in the upper layers of the skin & not cut through it. I was nervous however it was all fine...hurts tho 😂