Skip to content
Book now

Treatments  /  Skin  /  Tattoo removal

Surgical tattoo removal

Tattoo Removal in Kent, Surrey, Sussex and London

Removing a tattoo in one go

Surgical tattoo removal with Mr Siva Kumar excises the tattooed skin and closes it neatly, replacing the tattoo with a fine scar.

5.0★★★★★Doctify & Top Doctors
From £1,200Guide price
A small tattoo outlined with a surgical marker before it is cut out

At a glance

Procedure timeDepends on size
AnaestheticUsually local
Hospital stayHome the same day
Stitches out7 to 14 days
SessionsUsually one

About surgical removal

A definitive alternative to laser

Surgical tattoo removal cuts out the tattooed skin and stitches the edges together. It can be a good option for small to medium tattoos, or ones that have not responded to laser.

The trade-off is a scar in place of the tattoo. Mr Kumar will assess the size and position to tell you whether surgery or another approach would give the best outcome.

Large tattoos may need removal in stages, or a skin graft.

Surgical removal can suit

  • Small to medium tattoos
  • Tattoos that have not responded to laser
  • Colours that laser treats poorly
  • People who want removal in one session

What it won’t do

  • Remove a tattoo without leaving a scar

Watch & read

Everything you need to know, in one place

Patient guide

Surgical tattoo removal: your patient guide

A detailed booklet written by Mr Kumar. It explains the procedure in depth, how to prepare, every risk and complication, and how to look after yourself afterwards.

Preparing for treatmentThe procedureRisks & complicationsAftercare & recovery
Download PDF

Opens as a booklet you can flick through. Your copy is also given to you at consultation.

Your journey

Your step-by-step journey

Your journey starts the moment you get in touch. From your first enquiry to your final check-up, you deal with the same small team, and you will always feel listened to, informed and never rushed.

Book a consultation →
01Step one

Get in touch

Call, email or send an enquiry, or ask your GP or dermatologist to refer you. We aim to see you quickly.

If you are worried about a skin cancer, tell us when you book so we can prioritise your appointment.

02Step two

Assessment

Mr Kumar examines the area, reviews any biopsy results or scans, and explains your options clearly.

You will receive the plan in writing. Where relevant, your case is discussed with the skin cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) that Mr Kumar leads.

03Step three

Your procedure

Under local anaesthetic, the tattooed skin is removed and the wound stitched. The time depends on the tattoo’s size.

You will have clear wound-care instructions and a number to call if anything worries you.

04Step four

Results

Anything removed is examined in the laboratory, usually within 2–3 weeks.

Mr Kumar goes through the results with you and explains what, if anything, needs to happen next.

05Step five

Follow-up

A wound check and, where needed, regular skin checks to keep you well in the future.

You will also be shown how to check your own skin and what changes to look out for.

Recovery

Healing, step by step

Everyone heals at their own pace. This is a typical recovery, and Mr Kumar will give you a personal plan.

Days 1 to 3

Keep the dressing dry. Mild soreness.

Week 1

Avoid stretching the area.

Weeks 1 to 2

Stitches removed.

12 months

The scar matures.

Patient reviews

In their own words

5.0
★★★★★
194 verified reviews on Doctify
90 verified reviews on Top Doctors
5.0
★★★★★
90 reviews on Top Doctors
Everything was explained to me clearly before procedure and the whole experience was totally professional. I would not hesitate in recommending this clinic to anyone.
Verified patientSkin lesion removal · Doctify, Jun 2026
Mr Kumar is a kind , considerate and highly professional surgeon. From my initial consultation I was reassured that I was in the care of a first rate physician for forthcoming skin surgery. The aftercare I have received is second to none and confirms to me that my opinion of Mr Kumar is well justified. …
Verified patientSkin lesion removal · Doctify, Feb 2026
Mr KUMAR made me feel at ease, always. Explained my Operation in detail. I will definitely recommend him. I’m very pleased with my outcome.
Verified patientCosmetic Surgery · Doctify, Feb 2025

Safety

Risks and staying safe

All surgery carries some risk. Mr Kumar will go through these with you in detail, and the patient guide covers them in full, so you can make an informed decision.

Possible risks

  • Scarring (this replaces the tattoo)
  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Wound opening, especially over joints
  • Thickened scarring

Lowering your risk

  • Tell us about all medicines and supplements, especially blood thinners
  • Stop smoking and vaping well before and after your procedure
  • Follow your aftercare plan and attend every follow-up
  • Call us at any time if something does not feel right

Fees

Guide price from£1,200

Self-pay consultations £250.

Guide price only. Your final fee will be confirmed in a formal written quote after your consultation. Prices differ between hospitals and depend on your individual treatment plan.

One package price. No hidden surprises.

If you go ahead, you receive a single package price covering your whole journey, so you know exactly what you are paying before you commit. It usually includes:

  • Your surgeon’s fee
  • Procedure room or theatre fees
  • Laboratory analysis where needed
  • Follow-up and wound check
  • Support whenever you need it
  • A clear written quote

FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is surgery better than laser?

It depends. Surgery removes a small tattoo in one session but leaves a scar; laser needs many sessions and may not clear all colours.

How big a tattoo can be removed?

It depends on how loose the skin is in that area. Larger tattoos may need staged removal.

Tattoo removal: what is the guide price?

The guide price starts from £1,200. Your final fee depends on your treatment plan and choice of hospital, and is confirmed in a written quote after consultation. Self-pay consultations cost £250.

Is it covered by insurance?

Treatment for a medical concern is usually covered by private medical insurance, subject to your policy. Your insurer will need Mr Kumar’s full name, Siva Kumar Veeramani, and GMC number 6114710. Self-pay is also available.

Locations

Where to have your tattoo removal in Kent, Surrey and Sussex

You are seen by Mr Siva Kumar at The Ü Clinic in Sevenoaks, Kent, or The Ü Clinic in Oxted, Surrey. If you need a larger procedure, it can be done at one of his partner hospitals: The McIndoe Centre in East Grinstead, West Sussex, KIMS Hospital in Maidstone, or North Downs Hospital in Caterham. See all of Mr Siva Kumar's clinic and hospital locations.

Both clinics are within easy reach of Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, West Malling, Westerham, Swanley, Dartford, Gravesend, Orpington, Bromley, Redhill, Reigate, Caterham, Coulsdon, Purley and Croydon. KIMS Hospital in Maidstone is close to Rochester, Chatham, Gillingham, Aylesford and Ashford, and The McIndoe Centre in East Grinstead is close to Crawley, Horley, Haywards Heath and Edenbridge. Patients also travel from across Sussex, including Brighton, Worthing, Horsham, Eastbourne, Hastings and Crowborough.

Tattoo removal cost: guide prices start from £1,200. Your fee is confirmed in a written quote after your consultation. See all prices.

Thinking about tattoo removal?

Start with an unhurried consultation with Mr Siva Kumar at The Ü Clinic in Sevenoaks or Oxted. Self-pay consultations cost £250.