Gerald Ledford, an autopsy technician based in Little Rock, Arkansas, has shared insights into how tattoos are affected during the post-mortem examination process. In a video shared on TikTok, Ledford explained that while tattoos do not complicate the autopsy procedure itself, their placement can lead to them being cut during necessary incisions.
To access internal organs, technicians typically perform a Y-shaped incision across the chest and abdomen. If a tattoo is located within this zone, the artwork may be severed. Ledford noted that he often feels regret when having to cut through personal body art to complete the required medical steps.
Following the examination, embalmers are responsible for stitching the body back together. While embalmers attempt to align the skin, the original tattoo may not line up perfectly once the procedure is finished. Ledford added that because the body is typically dressed in clothing before being placed in a casket, the visual impact of these incisions is generally not seen by others.