Tattoo Removal Nashville Cost
Comprehensive Guide to Cost, Process, and Results
Understanding Tattoo Removal in Nashville
If you’re considering tattoo removal in Nashville, you’re not alone. Approximately 24% of Americans regret getting a tattoo, but thankfully, modern removal techniques offer effective solutions for unwanted ink.
Nashville offers numerous clinics with state-of-the-art laser technology and experienced professionals dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results, whether you’re looking for complete removal or fading for a cover-up.
This guide provides comprehensive information about tattoo removal costs in Nashville, different removal methods, what to expect during the process, and real before and after results to help you make an informed decision.
Why People Remove Tattoos
- Change in personal taste or style
- Relationship changes (ex-partner’s name)
- Professional career requirements
- Poor quality or faded tattoos
- Preparation for a wedding or special event
- To be a better role model for children
- To make room for new tattoo designs
Key Factors Affecting Removal
- Size and location of the tattoo
- Age of the tattoo (older tattoos are easier to remove)
- Ink colors and quality (black is easiest to remove)
- Skin type and tone
- Depth of the ink in the skin
- Your immune system’s efficiency
- Previous scarring in the area
Before & After Results
Real results from tattoo removal procedures performed in Nashville clinics
Expert Insights on Tattoo Removal
How Much Does Laser Tattoo Removal Cost?
This video from Removery explains the factors that affect tattoo removal pricing and what you can expect to pay for professional treatment. Experts discuss how tattoo size, age, ink colors, and location all contribute to the total cost of removal.
Duration: 1:33
Topics: Pricing factors, average costs, treatment packages
Laser Tattoo Removal in Nashville
Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery demonstrates their tattoo removal process in Nashville. They emphasize that successful removal requires patience and commitment to regularly scheduled treatments over time for optimal results.
Duration: 0:30
Location: Nashville, TN – Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery
Key Takeaways from Expert Videos
- Realistic cost expectations: From a reputable place, expect to pay at least $200 per treatment
- Total investment: For a small tattoo, total cost typically runs between $2,000-$5,000
- Treatment packages: Many Nashville clinics offer package deals that can reduce overall costs
- Time commitment: Most tattoo removal takes multiple sessions over 1-2 years
- Patient patience: Results aren’t immediate – removal requires commitment to the process
- Treatment intervals: Sessions are typically scheduled 6-8 weeks apart
- Professional expertise: Working with experienced technicians yields best results
- Diverse technologies: Nashville clinics use advanced laser systems for all skin and ink types
Tattoo Removal Methods
Nashville clinics offer various methods for removing unwanted tattoos
Laser Tattoo Removal
How it works: Laser removal uses high-intensity light beams to break down tattoo ink particles. The fragmented ink is then gradually eliminated by your body’s immune system.
Effectiveness: Most effective method, especially with modern Q-switched and PicoSecond lasers. Different wavelengths target specific ink colors.
Pain level: Often described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Topical anesthetics can be applied to reduce discomfort.
Sessions required: Typically 7-10 sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart for complete removal.
Nashville Laser Technologies:
- RevLite Q-switched Nd:YAG Laser (Dr. J.J. Wendel Plastic Surgery)
- Astanza Eternity Q-switched Ruby Laser (Dr. J.J. Wendel Plastic Surgery)
- PicoSecond Lasers (Removery)
Pros:
- Minimal risk of scarring
- Effective on most ink colors
- Non-invasive
Cons:
- Multiple sessions required
- Can be costly over time
- Not 100% effective for all tattoos
Surgical Excision
How it works: Surgical removal physically cuts out the tattooed skin and stitches the remaining skin together.
Effectiveness: 100% effective for complete removal in a single procedure, but only practical for smaller tattoos.
Pain level: Local anesthetic is used during the procedure. Post-surgical pain can be managed with prescribed medication.
Sessions required: Usually just one procedure, with follow-up for stitch removal.
Considerations:
- Only suitable for small tattoos
- May require skin grafts for larger removals
- Performed by plastic surgeons in Nashville
Pros:
- Complete removal in one session
- Often less expensive than multiple laser sessions
- Definitive results
Cons:
- Always leaves a scar
- Invasive procedure with recovery time
- Limited to small tattoos
Dermabrasion
How it works: Uses a high-speed rotating abrasive device to sand away the top layers of skin, allowing tattoo ink to leach out.
Effectiveness: Effectiveness varies widely; typically less effective than laser or surgical removal.
Pain level: Local anesthetic is used during the procedure. Recovery can be painful as it creates an abrasion wound.
Sessions required: Usually performed in one session, but results may not be complete.
Considerations:
- Less commonly offered in Nashville clinics
- Not recommended for sensitive skin or those with skin conditions
- Higher risk of scarring and pigmentation changes
Pros:
- Can be effective for superficial tattoos
- Usually a one-time procedure
Cons:
- Higher risk of scarring
- May cause color changes in skin
- Unpredictable results
- Painful recovery period (2-3 weeks)
⚠️ Warning About Non-Professional Methods
Be cautious about DIY tattoo removal creams and chemical peels. These products have no solid evidence of effectiveness and can cause serious chemical burns and scarring. Always consult with licensed professionals for tattoo removal.
Tattoo Removal Costs in Nashville
Nashville Price Ranges
In Nashville, laser tattoo removal costs typically range between $200 to $500 per session. The total cost depends on many factors, including tattoo size, complexity, and the number of sessions required.
Average Cost Per Session by Tattoo Size:
| Size | Cost Range Per Session | Approximate Total (7-10 sessions) |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Small (1-2 sq. in) | $100 – $200 | $700 – $2,000 |
| Small (2-4 sq. in) | $200 – $300 | $1,400 – $3,000 |
| Medium (4-6 sq. in) | $300 – $400 | $2,100 – $4,000 |
| Large (6+ sq. in) | $400 – $500+ | $2,800 – $5,000+ |
Nashville Package Pricing Options:
| Provider/Clinic | Package Deal | Savings vs. Pay-Per-Session |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin Skin & Laser | $1,000 for 5 sessions (4×2″ tattoo) | ~20-30% savings |
| Removery Nashville | 4-Pack: $3,392 (large tattoo) | ~10% savings |
| Removery Nashville | 10-Pack + 3-Pack: $2,109 (medium tattoo) | ~40% savings |
| Dr. J.J. Wendel | Treatment packages available (varies) | Call for details |
*Note: Prices are approximate and may vary. Always schedule a consultation for an accurate quote based on your specific tattoo.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Ask about package deals (often 20-40% savings)
- Inquire about financing options
- Some clinics offer new client discounts
- Consider partial removal if planning a cover-up
Insurance Coverage
Tattoo removal is typically considered cosmetic and not covered by health insurance. However, some clinics offer financing options like CareCredit to help manage costs.
Tennessee Average Cost
The average cost per tattoo removal session in Tennessee is approximately $321, which is slightly lower than the national average of $353.
The Tattoo Removal Process
Step-by-Step Process for Laser Removal
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Initial Consultation
During your first visit, a specialist will evaluate your tattoo, discuss your goals, and create a treatment plan. They’ll explain the number of sessions needed and expected results.
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Preparation
The area will be cleaned, and numbing cream may be applied to minimize discomfort. Protective eyewear will be provided to shield your eyes from the laser.
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Laser Treatment
The specialist will use a high-intensity laser that delivers pulses of energy to break up the tattoo ink. You’ll feel a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against your skin.
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Immediate Aftercare
An ice pack may be applied to soothe the treated area, followed by antibiotic ointment and a bandage to protect the skin.
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Recovery Period
The treated area may be red, swollen, and tender for a few days. Some blistering and scabbing is normal. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your specialist.
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Follow-up Treatments
You’ll need to wait 6-8 weeks between sessions to allow your body to flush out the broken-down ink and for your skin to heal completely.
Timeline & What to Expect
Weeks 1-2
Initial healing phase. The area may be red, swollen, and possibly blistered. Keep the area clean and protected according to aftercare instructions.
Weeks 3-6
The treated area will continue healing. You may see some fading as your immune system begins to clear the shattered ink particles.
Weeks 6-8
Time for your next session. You’ll start to see noticeable fading after 2-3 treatments, though results vary based on the tattoo and your body’s response.
6 Months to 1 Year
After multiple sessions, you’ll see significant fading. Smaller, older tattoos may be completely removed, while larger, newer tattoos will continue to fade.
1-2 Years
Complete removal for most tattoos. Some tattoos may require up to 10-12 sessions over 2-3 years for complete removal, especially colorful or dense tattoos.
Important Aftercare Tips
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Apply antibiotic ointment as directed
- Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area
- Don’t pick at scabs or blisters
- Avoid swimming, saunas, and hot tubs until healed
- Stay hydrated to help your lymphatic system flush ink
Top Tattoo Removal Clinics in Nashville
Removery Nashville – Edgehill
Advanced PicoSecond laser technology for all ink colors
- Location: Edgehill
- Price Range: $200-$500 per session
- Specializes in all ink colors and skin types
Removery offers a guarantee program where they continue treatments until the tattoo is fully removed at no additional cost.
Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery
Dual laser technology for comprehensive tattoo removal
- Location: Green Hills
- Call for custom pricing packages
- RevLite and Astanza Eternity laser systems
Features the Zimmer Cryo 6 Cooling System for increased comfort during treatments and minimized side effects.
Franklin Skin & Laser
Affordable package pricing for tattoo removal
- Location: Franklin
- $1,000 for 5 sessions (4×2″ tattoo)
- Highly rated by Reddit users
Offers competitive package pricing with good reviews for staff friendliness and effectiveness.
Moran Laser & Salon
Comprehensive laser services including tattoo removal
- Location: Nashville
- Call for pricing: (615) 378-5775
- Multi-service salon offering tattoo removal
Combines tattoo removal with other skin services for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.
Client Experiences
“Tattoo removal is a procedure not commonly associated with being enjoyable. However, Dr. Wendel and his superlative staff go above and beyond to provide the client with the best possible experience. Tattoo removal often takes multiple sessions to complete with an extended amount of time in between each session. Each visit to Dr. Wendel’s office has been a pleasurable experience, to say the least. The client is always greeted with a smile, refreshments are offered in the waiting area, and scheduling appointments is easy.”
— Actual Patient of Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery
“Franklin skin and laser is great. $1000 for 5 sessions. I have a 4×2″ tattoo getting removed. Very nice staff.”
— Reddit User, r/nashville
“The process of removal is, in my opinion, easier than getting a tattoo because, though it is quite painful, it is extremely quick. One clinic I visited was able to laser a 3×2 inch tattoo in less than 10 seconds.”
— Reddit User, r/TattooRemoval
Frequently Asked Questions
In Nashville, tattoo removal costs typically range from $200 to $500 per session, with most tattoos requiring 7-10 sessions for complete removal. Total costs can range from $1,400 to $5,000+ depending on your tattoo’s size, colors, and complexity. Many Nashville clinics offer package deals that can reduce the overall cost by 20-40%.
Tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, often described as feeling like a rubber band snapping against your skin. However, most Nashville clinics use numbing creams, cooling systems (like the Zimmer Cryo 6), and other pain management techniques to make the process more comfortable. The good news is that each session is typically very quick, lasting only a few minutes depending on tattoo size.
Most tattoos require 7-10 sessions for complete removal, with sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart. Factors affecting the number of sessions include:
- Tattoo age (older tattoos are easier to remove)
- Ink colors (black and darker colors are easier to remove)
- Location on your body (areas with better circulation respond better)
- Your skin type and immune system efficiency
- The quality and depth of the tattoo application
Potential disadvantages of tattoo removal include:
- Pain and discomfort during and after treatments
- Multiple sessions required over a long period (often 1-2 years)
- Potential side effects like blistering, swelling, and temporary hyperpigmentation
- Possibility of scarring (though minimal with modern lasers)
- Cost (total investment can be significant)
- Not all tattoos can be completely removed (though significant fading is usually achieved)
After successful tattoo removal, the skin typically returns to its natural appearance with minimal or no visible traces of the tattoo. In some cases, there might be subtle textural differences or slight pigmentation changes, but these are usually only noticeable upon close inspection. Modern laser removal techniques have significantly reduced the risk of scarring. The before and after gallery on this page shows real examples of successful tattoo removal results.
The full tattoo removal process typically takes 1-2 years for most tattoos, sometimes longer for complex, colorful, or larger pieces. Each session only takes a few minutes, but you’ll need to wait 6-8 weeks between sessions to allow your body to flush out ink particles and for your skin to heal completely. The entire process is a marathon, not a sprint, requiring patience and commitment to regular treatments.
Whether tattoo removal is “worth it” depends on your personal situation and motivations. Many people find the investment worthwhile when:
- The tattoo affects career opportunities or professional image
- The tattoo represents a painful relationship or period in their lives
- They’ve simply outgrown the tattoo’s meaning or aesthetic
- They’re preparing the area for a new, better tattoo design
While the process can be lengthy and somewhat costly, the psychological benefits of removing an unwanted tattoo are significant for many people.
Modern laser technology can target all tattoo colors, but some colors are more challenging to remove than others:
- Easiest to remove: Black, dark blue, and brown
- Moderately difficult: Red, green, and orange
- Most difficult: Yellow, white, light blue, and purple
Nashville clinics like Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery use multiple laser types (like the RevLite Q-switched Nd:YAG and the Astanza Eternity Ruby Laser) to effectively target different ink colors for optimal results.
Ready to Start Your Tattoo Removal Journey?
Schedule a consultation with a Nashville tattoo removal specialist to discuss your options.