I just got a tattoo in an area I know the TSA will pat down. It is extremely sore. I am flying tomorrow and know that the TSA will subject me to a pat down due to my ostomy setting off either the metal detector (filter with aluminum foil) or body scanner.

I really don't want the area around my tattoo patted down, as it is still healing and I do not want to damage it. Can I request that the area not be touched because of the tattoo/wound, sensitivity and instead be subjected to visual inspection?

Also, I read about lotion setting off the etds. Is that really still true? I am using lotion, as instructed, on my tattoo.