Medical tattoo

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Medical Tattoo is a type of tattoo that is used for various medical purposes. It is a procedure in which a specific type of ink is injected into the skin to create a permanent mark. Medical tattoos are often used to mark the skin for radiation therapy, to recreate the appearance of a nipple after mastectomy, or to convey important medical information about the individual.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Medical tattoos have a variety of uses in the medical field. Some of the most common uses include:

  • Radiation Therapy: Medical tattoos are often used to mark the skin for radiation therapy. These tattoos help ensure that the radiation is delivered to the exact same spot during each treatment session.
  • Reconstructive Surgery: After a mastectomy, a medical tattoo can be used to recreate the appearance of a nipple. This can help improve the individual's body image and self-esteem.
  • Medical Information: Medical tattoos can also be used to convey important medical information about the individual. For example, a person with diabetes might get a medical tattoo to alert medical professionals in case of an emergency.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure for getting a medical tattoo is similar to that of getting a regular tattoo. The skin is first cleaned and then a design is drawn on the skin. A needle is then used to inject the ink into the skin. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with medical tattoos. These can include infection, allergic reactions to the ink, and scarring. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before deciding to get a medical tattoo.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Medical tattoo Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD