A dermatology office in Naperville is offering free tattoo removals for cancer patients’ radiation marks and sex trafficking survivors’ tattoos through a new program aimed at empowering people to embrace a new beginning.
Oak Dermatology, with locations in Naperville and Joliet, was one of the practices chosen by the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery to participate in the national new beginnings campaign that offers the pro bono service.
The program’s goal is simple: to remove visible reminders of people’s past experiences and give them new confidence.
Jeffrey Hsu, co-founder and dermatologist, said radiation tattoos are permanent marks that serve as reference points to ensure precise and accurate alignment of the radiation beams during the course of radiation therapy.
“Many patients desire to have these tattoos removed once their cancer treatment is complete since they remain a constant reminder of their arduous treatment journey,” Hsu said.
The tattoos normally look like black dots and are strategically placed on the patient’s body. Patients will receive laser tattoo removal and the number of sessions required will depend on the size and depth of the tattoo, the patient’s skin type and the specific laser used.
Sex trafficking survivors can also have branding tattoos removed. They must complete or be actively participating in a rehabilitation program or recovery support group affiliated with the National Trafficking Sheltered Alliance, officials said.
Survivors are required to provide documentation from their case manager affirming they are sex trafficking survivors in a safe and appropriate stage of recovery.
“While these unwanted tattoos may only be one of many, many obstacles these survivors face in their recovery process, they are a burden we can alleviate with our expertise and technology,” Hsu said.
Cancer patients are required to provide a letter from their oncologist or radiologist endorsing the removal of any radiation marks.
The program will be offered year round for the forseeable future, he said, ensuring that survivors can access the support when they need it the most.
“As members of our community, we consider it our inherent responsibility to support those around us,” Hsu said. “Moreover, we are committed to providing aid to individuals who have displayed extraordinary resilience in their personal journeys.”
Anyone interested in obtaining the service can call Oak Dermatology at 864-625-3376 or go to oakderm.com.
