Tattoo Removal Raleigh Durham NC
Surgical Excision
Many individuals use tattoos as symbolism to express themselves, emotions, personal views and philosophies or something of significant meaning. Then it’s also used as a means to fit in or a fashion statement.
While there are countless individuals all over the world still getting tattoos, there are many who want to have them permanently removed for personal justification. Some of the reasons include outgrowing the permanent body art, starting a new career, embarrassment, military enrollment and so on.
The direct surgical incision process involves removing the skin with the actual ink of the tattoo design. This is a very effective way in removing certain tattoos, depending on the size and location.
It is very efficient in eliminating smaller tattoos because the entire piece can usually be removed in just one procedure. When it comes to larger tattoos, the surgical excision has to be done in stages. Some tattoos are excessively large or located on an area that is not amenable to excision.
During the procedure, local anesthesia is injected to numb the area that will be treated. The tattoo (or part of the tattoo) will be excised with a scalpel. Once the skin is cut away, the epidermis and the dermis are also removed. The remaining edges are then brought together and sutured.
In getting rid of larger tattoos through the excision process, the center of the tattoo is usually removed first. However, the sides are then removed during later dates of the next treatment session(s) scheduled, depending on the size and location of the tattoo.
Usually, tattoo excision is preferred over other removal methods because it can result in a smaller scar, completely eliminates the permanent ink and generally involves less treatment sessions.
This option is also less painful and can end up costing less compared to the other tattoo removal alternatives.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. Pro-Nox can also be used for additional comfort. There is usually very little downtime, and a follow-up appointment is scheduled to assess wound healing and timing for a second excision if necessary.
Photos shown are mostly just one/two week post-ops.
Meet Dr. Diehl
- Dr. Diehl completed full training in general surgery before pursuing additional, specialized training in plastic surgery. She is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery—the only plastic or aesthetic board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. This certification requires a rigorous, multi-year process, including written and oral exams, as well as in-depth case review. A practicing surgeon since 2001, Dr. Diehl brings over two decades of extensive surgical experience to every procedure she performs.
- Recognized among the top 7% of surgeons nationwide by Castle Connolly
- Born in Peru and Fluent in Spanish
- Inventor of the Diehl Liposuction Cannula(Black & Black Surgical)—a tool designed to enhance the safety and precision of liposuction procedures.
- National speaker on labiaplasty and sexual wellness
- Fully trained general surgeon/trauma surgeon
- Renowned for her expertise in labiaplasty, vaginal rejuvenation, and precision body contouring—including body, chin, and mons pubis liposuction
- As Medical Director of miraDry, she has also traveled the world as an international speaker and educator
- Previously certified by the American Board of Surgery
- Provides non-surgical cosmetic treatments including CoolSculpting®, Thermi®, miraDry®, and injectables to patients
- Trained in cosmetic facial, breast, and body procedures, including SmartLipo MPX, an FDA approved laser liposuction technology.
- Dr. Diehl is known not only for her surgical excellence, but for her honesty, warmth, and discretion. Patients seek her out for results that feel natural, empowering, and beautifully transformative.
- Member of the LIMITLESS Steering Committee – the LIMITLESS Leaders Summit is built to educate, elevate, and empower female surgeons through leadership development, collaboration, and networking.
Learn more about Dr. Diehl
