I’ve decided to get a tattoo over my pacemaker scar.
I shared this with a friend who suggested I check with my cardiologist before I did anything rash. Google was faster, and possibly a more reliable resource for fashion, than a cardiologist. I googled: “Can I have a tattoo with a pacemaker.” I am not the only one who wants a tattoo on their pacemaker scar – HUNDREDS of inquiries.
Do you have any idea how MANY tattoos there are to choose from? Here are a few possibilities that might reflect my personality.
Apparently there are a couple of potential problems for having a tattoo done over a pacemaker scar:
- The electromagnetic (EMI) of the tattoo tool interferes with the pacemaker’s function,
- The possibility that since pacemaker wires are near the skin they might accidentally get damaged in the process.
- The tattoo machine needs to be 6 inches away from pacemaker site which would put my tattoo on my belly button . . . or worse.
None of those problems seem as insurmountable as this warning: “When you get old the tattoo will be all wrinkly”
I’m getting a fake stick-on tattoo.
Click on the links below to see related posts:
Contest, Name My Pacemaker, latest entries
Pacing My Pacemaker: Tallulah Pacehead
Anything electromagnetic shouldn’t be near you…it can affect your pacemaker…what reputable artist would even attempt a tattoo over a scar?!?…and risk damaging it or the wires leading to it….the battery in the pacemaker needs to be changed every so many years (depending on the individual)…so what’s the point of a tattoo on the scar when you’ll be having surgery again on the same spot??…very unsafe….
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Anonymous,
You are 100% right and I agree. You didn’t sign your name and comments from “anonymous” are often deleted but what you say is accurate and important for anyone who has an electronic device implanted. The post was written a bit tongue-in-cheek, if not from my heart.
I was even warned about electro-magnetic fields used in some department stores for shop-lifting detection.
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Do not get a tattoo. Do what my grandchildren do – draw on yourself with colored markers – totally adorable. Washable. Changeable.
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Sharon,
I agree-especially if you are someone who like to change fashions from time to time.
Peggy
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Well, the tattoos look very attractive but I am all for the stick on ones.
You do not want to interfere with a pacemaker, your heart is too precious.
Buy a few tattoos and vary them. 😊
miriam
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Miriam!
You have re-sparked my interest in body decor (if not decorum). When I first got Tallulah Pacehead (my pacemaker) the stick on tattoos were not available as they are now – I just might go shopping for “pasties” and a low cut t-shirt (I’m told t-shirts are more hip than blouses).
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I think the “fake” tattoo is a most FABULOUS idea. That way you can always change it whenever it strikes your fancy, kind of like our jewlry!!!! Sounds like too much fun.
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I think the “fake’ tattoo is a FABULOUS idea. That way your tattoo is like a piece of beautiful jewlry and you can change it according to how you’re feeling or even what you’re wearing… 😉
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IN PRISON THEY DO TAT’S WITH A HOT NEEDLE AND PEN INK. NO NEED FOR THAT SISSY TATTOO MACHINE THAT WOULD INTERFERE WITH YOUR PM.
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