Brazil’s most tattooed man reveals dramatic transformation after undergoing painful surgery to remove 20 years of tattoos
Leandro de Souza, once known as Brazil’s most tattooed man, has undergone a dramatic transformation after beginning the painful process of removing the extensive tattoos covering 95% of his body. The 35-year-old photographer from Bagé, a city near the Brazilian-Uruguayan border, has so far completed two laser sessions in an effort to erase over two decades of ink.
De Souza’s journey into the world of tattoos began at just 13, inspired by his admiration for rock bands like Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, and Metallica. However, his life took a dark turn about a decade ago following a divorce from his wife, the mother of his 10-year-old son. The emotional fallout led him down a path of substance abuse, including cocaine, ecstasy, LSD, and alcohol.
Feeling like a “circus animal” and unable to bear his life any longer, De Souza sought help and found solace in a municipal shelter, where he was introduced to evangelicalism. This newfound faith became a turning point in his life, leading him to confront his addiction and seek a fresh start by removing the tattoos that once defined his identity.
De Souza’s transformation is not just physical but deeply spiritual, reflecting his desire to leave behind his past and embrace a new, more meaningful life.
