Seven years ago, I had surgery to implant an artificial valve in my heart. As a result, I take blood thinners daily, with a recommended target INR of 2.5 to 3.5 (I test myself weekly). I had always considered getting a tattoo, but couldn't decide what kind of design I wanted. Now that I've had the surgery and will be on warfarin therapy for life, my ability to get a tattoo is doubtful.
I've talked to a few different tattooists, and gotten seemingly different answers from all of them. Some have simply said they would not agree to do the work (which is kind of what I would expect just because they need to cover themselves from liability). Others have said that it's no problem at all, although I may bleed more than most people. And others have said that they don't like to do it because excessive seepage of blood from the wound will cause the ink to run out, requiring additional sessions (one guy said he would just "hammer on it" for as long as I could stand it).
Even my doctor hasn't been able to give me a good reason, other than to say she wouldn't recommend it. While I could probably adjust my dosage to lower my INR prior to getting the tattoo, obviously my doctors wouldn't condone that, and I know the serious risks that would involve and wouldn't ever do that - no tattoo is worth the risk of a stroke or death to me.
So I'm curious, though, what is the position of a well-trained, ethical tatooist? Is there an approach to getting a tattoo for someone on blood thinners that everyone can live with?
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I have tatoos and I am proud of them. They both have clear meaning to me. Now the article talks about tatoos not being as painful as one might think. Generally I would agree but, the initial outline goes deeper than the coloring in. A point one might consider if having a really complex application. The second heads up might be obvious to some but not to all and that is location of the work can have a big effect on discomfort. For instance, over the knotty ankle bones or the shoulder blades can certainly become a little intense. Don't be afraid to take a small break a good artist will understand and accomodate you.
Thanks so much for this heads up! It is good information to know before one heads off to get a tattoo.
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