I made a deal with my husband that when I lost my first 50 pounds I would get a new tattoo to celebrate. I know I have been told that I should not donate blood after getting my band but are tattoos out too? Wanting to get something special to commemorate this moment that I finally got "me" back. If some have gotten tattoos what have you gotten? Would love some ideas

I have gotten two since being banded, one quite large

I had not heard of not donating blood after the band. Can anybody else chime in?

I had not heard of not donating blood after the band. Can anybody else chime in?

I would like to know about this as well. My Dr has never mentioned this, nor have I read it anywhere during my research.

not only have I donated blood but have gotten more tattoes too. this is all new to me also

i got a tattoo it's a lotus flower with a butterfly to signify change i've lost over 100 lbs now and my life is completely different

Always tatoo!!!!!!

There's no reason why you can't donate blood or get a tattoo after being banded.

I donate blood every 3 months. It has no effect on the band.

That is so interesting. When I went in for my 3 month follow-up my "print out" said that they didn't recommend it. I am not a big blood donor, but it is good to know if I needed to do so I could. Thanks. Asherscrashers, I have designed a tattoo with the word "Believe" and Mickey Mouse next to it. I am a BIG Disney fan and have wanted to do something with Mickey. Believe will be my constant reminder to believe in myself and all that I can accomplish.

Well as far as I know you can't donate blood after having a tattoo but I have never heard of not donating after having a band.I live in Australia and am not allowed to donate blood . Is it because I am a drug user,promiscuous or something similar? No, it is because I lived in the UK before 1980 and therefore I might be a MAd Cow......................!

never been a tatoo fan for myself however if that is what folks want to do to signify their success it's all good.. I'm afraid if I got a butterfly it would turn into a vulture at my age... lol

Ironically I can't give blood because I'm still too heavy. Something about insurance liability on the amount of weight their donor couches can support. If you want to know what embarrassment feels like just have that conversation multiple times. "We'd like you to cone down and donate blood since you're a universal donor." "I'm sorry we can't take your blood even though you're in good health on average you're too heavy for our furniture."

If I do reach a "goal" weight I could see getting a tattoo of my starting weight and my goal weight. Just 2 numbers to most people but a pretty significant symbol for me. This of course would mean I wouldn't be able to give blood again.

Don't get a tattoo anywhere near your port, that's my only advice.

I got a phoenix on my back when I lost all the weight. In fact, I've had a LOT of tatts since I've lost weight.

Here is what the American Red Cross has to say on the subject:

Tattoo

Wait 12 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities. This requirement is related to concerns about hepatitis.

Acceptable if the tattoo was applied by a state-regulated entity using sterile needles and ink that is not reused. Cosmetic tattoos applied in a licensed establishment in a regulated state using sterile needles and ink that is not reused is acceptable. There are 40 states that currently regulate tattoo facilities. You should discuss your particular situation with the health historian at the time of donation.

I have four tattoos, all done mindfully to commemorate certain events in my life. I think it is a great idea as it is a meaningful and permanent reminder of something special. One of my tattoos is from overcoming a severe depression. I have "Lux" which is Latin (or Italian) for "light" tattooed in sky blue on my wrist - meaning finding the light, the positive. I now can also relate this tattoo to weight loss.

One thing to make sure of, though - get an artist you are very confident in - that you have seen their portfolio and their shop so you know they are true professionals.

Good luck with your decision!