While many tattoos are given with success, there are some that do not have such a happy outcome. There are risks of getting a tattoo that cannot be discounted. Among them, the risk of contracting a disease from unsanitary equipment. In addition, a tattoo recipient may be subject to a skin infection if the tattoo is not properly cleaned and cared for after it’s creation.

Any type of problems that may arise as a result of getting a tattoo will likely have to be handled with the help of a licensed physician. This may include medication to treat any illness or infection that may occur. In addition to the immediate concerns, there may be a later need for a physician if the tattoo recipient should later decide to have it removed. In this scenario, the only way to remove a tattoo is through surgery.

If a tattoo recipient decides to have the image removed, there are even more risks associated with surgery. And, since the surgery is to remove a tattoo, these risks may be considered as a direct result of the tattoo itself. With tattoo removal, the patient may experience either an out-patient or brief stay in the hospital. This will depend on whether or not any complications occur during surgery. Some of the most common risks associated with surgery include infection, allergic reactions to medication or permanent scarring. Depending on the health of the patient, more serious complications may arise and questions relating to these possibilities will be addressed by a qualified physician.

A cosmetic risk tattoo, but not necessarily one relating to health, is the possibility that a tattoo artist is not experienced and may not properly design or seal the tattoo. If a design is not done properly, it can look unprofessional and may be an embarrassment to the tattoo recipient. While this may not present a direct health risk, it may force the patient to attempt ways at covering the tattoo that he/she had once planned to showcase. If a tattoo is done incorrectly, some customers may elect for removal surgery and this can carry the risks as mentioned above.

This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice. Before deciding on getting a tattoo or having one removed, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for medical advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual healthcare needs.

Designing your own tattoo can be a great choice - instead of winding up with the same old tattoo parlor design that everyone else winds up with, you'll have a unique, personalized image that truly represents your personality and style. However, designing your own tattoo isn't all fun and games. Be sure to think about the following aspects when designing your tattoo:

1. Location, location, location

The type of tattoo you design will be limited, in large part, by the area of your body it's going to be applied to. If, for example, you're designing a full back piece, you'll have a lot more lee-way in adding design elements than if you're planning a small tattoo for your ankle. In addition, if you work in a professional field, you may want to consider a somewhat tame design if your tattoo will be placed in a location that isn't covered up by your clothing. It's sad, but some business people may prematurely judge you if they see a skull and crossbones sticking out over your collar.

2. Think balance

One of the biggest aspects of good tattoo design is balance. You want your tattoo design to have a certain visual flow to it - lopsided or unbalanced tattoos tend to look unprofessional. So consider adding circular elements to your tattoo design, or work with mirror images to give your tattoo a more professional look. If you're having trouble implementing this concept in your design, ask a friend with a graphics arts background to give you some pointers. Remember, spend some time on your design - you'll be wearing it for the rest of your life.