Laser: One Year · Surgery: One Week · The Choice Is Yours
Don’t Let a Tattoo Keep You From the Job You Want
Expert surgical, non-laser tattoo removal for those pursuing careers in the military, aviation, law enforcement and firefighting. Often completed in a single stage, with consultations by Zoom.
Book Your Free Estimate
Start with a remote consultation with Dr. Richard Sadove, board-certified plastic surgeon.
The Non-Laser Alternative
What Is Surgical Tattoo Removal?
Surgical tattoo removal is a non-laser option that removes the tattooed skin directly, rather than fading pigment over many laser sessions that can take up to a year to complete.
For people facing a job or enlistment deadline, this can be a faster route. Many tattoos can be removed in a single stage, and a scar takes the place of the tattoo. Airlines and the Armed Forces generally allow a scar where a tattoo used to be, so a scar can make you eligible for a role that a tattoo would rule out.
Surgical excision, a non-laser technique.
Often one stage; larger tattoos may need more.
Remote via Zoom, after you send clear photos.
Many patients fly in and fly out the same day.
A scar replaces the tattoo. Honest expectations set at consultation.
Why Timing Matters
A Career Shouldn’t Wait a Year for Laser
Many patients have an urgent need for tattoo removal. Some are hopeful to get a job as a flight attendant or to enter the armed forces, and are told a tattoo makes them ineligible. Airlines and the Armed Forces generally allow a scar where a tattoo used to be. For many people, having a scar and being eligible for employment is preferable to waiting as much as a year for laser treatments to finish. Surgical tattoo removal is an attractive option for these situations, and many patients fly in and fly out the same day.
The Benefits
Built Around Your Deadline
A Faster Path
Surgery can be measured in weeks where laser can take up to a year of repeat sessions.
Often a Single Visit
Many tattoos are removed in one stage, though larger designs can require more.
Consult From Anywhere
Remote Zoom consultations mean many patients fly in and fly out the same day.
Move Forward
Take the next step toward the service role or job you have been working toward.
Am I a Candidate?
Who Surgical Removal Suits Best
Many tattoos can be considered for removal. The best way to know your options and set reasonable expectations is a consultation with Dr. Richard Sadove. Most patients consult by Zoom.
You may be a candidate if you:
Real Patients. Real Results.
Surgical Tattoo Removal Before & After
Every patient is different, and your results may vary. Results depend on the location, size and complexity of the tattoo. Surgical excision leaves a scar. Images show actual patients of Dr. Sadove.
Your Surgeon
Meet Dr. Richard Sadove
Richard Sadove, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving the greater Gainesville and North Florida area with cosmetic surgery and non-laser surgical tattoo options.
Dedicated to excellence and continuing education, Dr. Sadove has proudly offered his services to plastic surgery patients for over 30 years, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Patient Experiences
What Patients Say
“Dr. Sadove and his team made the entire surgical tattoo removal process feel clear and manageable. They explained what to expect, answered all my questions, and treated me with genuine care.”
“I had been looking for an alternative to lengthy laser treatments, and my consultation with Dr. Sadove gave me confidence in the surgical option. The experience was professional, straightforward, and personalized.”
“From the initial consultation through follow-up care, I felt supported every step of the way. Dr. Sadove was knowledgeable, honest, and focused on helping me achieve the best possible outcome.”
Good to Know
Tattoo Removal FAQs
Who is a good candidate for tattoo removal?
Many tattoos can be considered for removal. If you are considering having a tattoo removed, a consultation with Dr. Richard Sadove is the best way to discuss your options and set reasonable expectations. Most patients consult by Zoom.
You may be a candidate if you:
- Are physically healthy
- Don’t smoke
- Have realistic expectations
- Accept that a scar will replace the tattoo
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Cost depends on the size, color and complexity of the tattoo and the technique used. As a general reference point, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an average cost of $423 for a small laser tattoo removal (2020 statistics). Surgical excision and skin grafting are typically priced differently from laser.
Keep in mind that laser can require many sessions over a year, while many tattoos are surgically removed in one treatment. Most health insurance does not cover tattoo removal, and financing plans may be available. Your exact estimate is provided at your consultation.
[CONFIRM WITH CLIENT: current surgical pricing and any financing options to display.]
What should I expect during a consultation?
The success and safety of your procedure depend on candid discussion during your consultation. Most consultations are remote after you send quality photos of your tattoo. Dr. Sadove will evaluate your general health, discuss your goals, review your options, and explain likely outcomes along with any risks or potential complications.
What are the risks of tattoo removal?
The decision to have a tattoo removed is personal. Dr. Sadove will explain the risks in detail before you provide consent. Potential risks include, but are not limited to: infection, poor wound healing, possible need for further surgery, skin discoloration that may be permanent, a suboptimal aesthetic result, and unfavorable scarring. All of your questions should be addressed directly with your plastic surgeon.
What is recovery like?
After the procedure, a gauze bandage is applied to the area. Aftercare typically involves washing the area daily with soap and water and applying a fresh dressing. You will receive specific instructions on wound care, any medications, what to watch for, and when to follow up. Ask about when you can bathe, resume normal activity and exercise, and return for follow-up.
What results should I expect?
Results vary depending on the treatment option, and on the location, size and complexity of the tattoo. Complete removal is the goal, but it may not always be possible to remove the entire tattoo, and it is important to have realistic expectations. For patients treated with surgical excision, a surgical scar will be left behind. Following your post-operative instructions supports the best possible result.
How do I choose a plastic surgeon for tattoo removal?
The most important choice is selecting a doctor you can trust. Dr. Sadove is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), with over 30 years of experience. During a consultation you can ask about board certification, training, where the procedure is performed, recovery, risks, and how complications are handled.
Get Started
Schedule Your Free Tattoo Removal Estimate
People change, and so can your tattoo. Often the need for removal is not anticipated. We are here to give you a transparent, efficient experience, starting with a free estimate. Talk with a tattoo removal expert today to get started.
Book Your Free Estimate
A board-certified plastic surgeon will review your tattoo and options.