Can I get a tattoo on my heart surgery scar?

Heart surgery is a relatively common surgical treatment method. Generally speaking, after heart surgery, a scar of about 15 centimeters will appear on the abdomen. Some people like to cover the scar with tattoos. As a doctor, it is generally not recommended to do so because it can easily cause certain irritation to the surgical scar and easily lead to scar hyperplasia, which is not conducive to the health of the body.

What are the dangers of tattoos?

1. Infection

Many of the pigments used in tattoos are chemical substances. These chemicals can cause dermatitis and allergies when they enter the human body, resulting in local itching, pain, burning sensation, numbness, etc. Some can even cause cell mutations, which is a prelude to cancer.

2. Granuloma

These are small nodules that may form around foreign material from the body, such as wood scraps from tattoo paint.

3. Remove problem points

Despite advances in laser technology, tattoo removal is a labor-intensive process. Completely removing a tattoo without leaving scars may be impossible.

4. Allergic reaction

Although allergic reactions to tattoo pigments are extremely rare. They are especially troublesome when they occur, as these pigments are very difficult to remove. Rarely, a tattoo recipient may develop an allergic reaction that can last for several years.

5. Complications of MRI

There have been reports that people with tattoos or permanent tattoos may experience swelling or burning in the tattooed area when they undergo MRI. Although this appears to be a rare occurrence and has no apparent lasting effect.

6. Keloid formation

If you are prone to keloids (scars that grow beyond normal boundaries), you may be at risk for developing one after getting a tattoo. Keloids can form any time you experience an injury to your skin or a traumatic event.