Can I get a tatoo??

[Nistha_]

Hey.

So its been 9 years now of my kidney transplant. I am 17 years old now. Is it okay to get a tatoo like it won't harm my kidney or anything right?

[Hidden]

Ask your parents and the nephrologist. In that order. Have a nice day.

[Herkidney]

As you know, the anti-rejection medications that are used post-transplant lower the body’s immune system. As such, the body’s ability to fight infections is lowered. One concern about getting a tattoo is the heightened risk of infection. As Mr. Kidney advised, check with your family and your team of doctors. Good luck!

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador]

I agree with Mr._Kidney.

Your first line of questions should go to your doctor. Why risk infection after all of this hard work?

[Dixidude39]

This isn't medical advice, it has to do with your career future. Yes, tattoos are much more acceptable than in past years, but if you go ahead, I suggest that you keep it/them concealed. If you go for a "sleeve" (tattoos covering every inch of your arms), it could turn a off a future employer. So, why risk your future.

[KristiS_NKF]

Hi Nistha - it's very common for transplant recipients to be interested in tattoos. Check out this link for an answer to a similar question and as everyone has said, just be sure to touch base with your doctor! Good Luck

kidney.org/content/heart-yo...

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

Nistha,

We all think there is no way I am at risk for infection.... getting a tattoo is throwing the dice and with having a transplant and the medications, you are taking a big risk I would not want. I realize that tattoos are a generational thing. But if you get an infection, you can lose all you have worked for. Sepsis is a terrible blood infection and can take off like wildfire. "1/3 of the people who get it die. "

sepsis.org/sepsisand/tattoo...

Just my opinion, someone gave you that kidney. It is an amazing thing and you are very lucky to have it. Many people with CKD do not have that option. It sort of spits in the face of those people if you lost it because of a stupid tattoo.

Here is something else to think about. If you were planning on putting the tattoo over a scar from the original surgery, what happens to that tattoo if you need to have another transplant?

[Zazzel]

My husband never gets sick. I’ve known him for 20 years. Never had a cold, has perfect blood work, no illnesses etc so great immune system. Got several tattoos a few years back. For some reason, the red ink must have been bad or something because the tattoo started hurting really badly. After several days the area didn’t heal the way a tattoo should and instead was raw and bright red. Went to urgi care. They told him it was a good thing he came in when he did as he could have died from it. He caught it in time and with medicine and a good immune system it healed. His brother, someone who loved him, is a tattoo artist and was the one who gave him the tattoo. My husband has tattoos all over his body that his brother has done for him. Doesn’t happen often, but there are risks.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador]

The risks vs medications can be complicated so please consult with your transplant team. Some have had tattoos without issues others have had problems. The only one who can accurately advise is your physician. Please reach out to them. Blessings

[Bet117 NKF Ambassador in reply to KidneyCoach]

Agreed!

[Avenger]

I’m not sure about the affect the ink has on kidneys. Your so young, you want to give your body every chance of staying well. I know the tattoos are s big thing at your age, my daughters and granddaughters have them. But as you get older more body parts lose their health. So do you really want to add something to that? Ask in a Q&A, or research it. Ask your doctor. God bless you, Avenger