Laser Tattoo Removal
Contrary to popular opinion, tattoos can be completely removed without scarring. If you're considering tattoo removal; our experience, equipment, and prices give us the competitive edge. Contact us for a free consultation.
Tattoo Removal FAQs
- How do lasers remove Tattoos?
- Who is a candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
- What determines the success of Tattoo Removal?
- Does Tattoo Removal hurt?
- How long does each treatment take?
- What happens after each treatment?
- Does the procedure have any side effects?
- What is the cost of Laser Tattoo Removal?
- How many treatment sessions are required?
- Are there other Tattoo Removal methods?
How do lasers remove Tattoos?
Lasers work by passing energy harmlessly through the skin, until the energy comes in contact with the ink or pigment of the tattoo. The reaction of the energy and the ink is called photo acoustic or photo percussion. The percussion of the energy as it is delivered to the ink causes the ink to fracture below the skin and exposes the ink to your body's immune system. Because the ink is foreign to your body your immune system will send specialized cells to the area called Macrophages to remove the ink. The ink will eventually be removed through your body's Lymphatic system. This process of fragmenting the ink particles requires numerous sessions depending on the depth of the ink level.
Who is a candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
There are very few reasons an individual would not be a candidate for tattoo removal with laser, the only absolute contraindication is pregnancy and breast feeding. Once a woman is done breast feeding she could move forward with tattoo removal.
What determines the success of Tattoo Removal?
Complete removal of a tattoo is based on several things. The size, location, application, age, and color of the tattoo all factor in, as well as the health of the patient and thus their body's ability to heal. Newer tattoos are generally more difficult to remove. The greatest factor is perseverance, an average tattoo can take between 1.5 and 2 years a multicolored tattoo could take 3 to 4 years.
Does Tattoo Removal hurt?
Unfortunately tattoos are painful when they are placed on the skin and they are just as painful when they are removed. The lasers generate rapid pulses which may feel different to each patient, but are generally uncomfortable. To minimize the pain, the Cosmetic Laser Specialist will utilize ice packs before during and after the treatment to minimize discomfort. If needed we do have topical anesthetic available for purchase.
How long does each treatment take?
Laser treatment usually does not take more than a few minutes, yet this time frame varies greatly depending on the tattoo. However, multiple sessions are required to remove most tattoos. The multiple sessions are usually split over 6 week intervals.
What happens after each treatment?
In most cases there is a welt immediately above the ink. The skin overlying the treated area is fragile and should be treated as an injury for approximately 72 hours. Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs or any prolonged exposure to water. Showering is fine, however do not use any type of abrasive device or scrub over that area for 72 hours. Sunscreen should always be worn on the area being treated. During the course of treatments sun exposure should be kept to a minimum.
If breakdown of the skin occurs it should be treated with topical over the counter antibiotic and covered with a sterile bandage. Our facility should be notified to assure proper care is being taken and it should be documented.
Does the procedure have any side effects?
Side effects of laser procedures are generally few but may include hyperpigmentation (excessive color), or hypopigmentation (excessive fading) of skin. Other possible side effects include infection and a small chance of permanent scarring. The area may appear sunburned for a few months and ultimately this will pass.
What is the cost of Laser Tattoo Removal?
Tattoo removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by any medical insurance plans. Tattoo removal is much more expensive than tattoo placement. Laser tattoo removal can range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending upon the size, type, and location of the tattoo and the number of visits required. Prior to treatment, discussing the costs of the procedure from start to finish is a great way to clarify the expense of the procedure up front.
How many treatment sessions are required?
Most simple tattoos are removed in 8-10 treatments scheduled about 6 weeks apart. A large, professional multi-color tattoo can take as many as 20 treatments and cost thousands of dollars to remove, and the success of the procedure may not be guaranteed.
Are there other Tattoo Removal methods?
There are other methods of tattoo removal, though most of them are generally ineffective at permanent removal and may result in a greater risk of scarring. Today laser therapy has replaced most other treatment options and most tattoo removal specialists utilize laser technology as the sole tattoo removal treatment option. Some of the other methods include dermabrasion, camouflage, and excision of the tattoo. These methods may result in more damage to the skin and excess scarring. These techniques are usually used when laser is not an option. There are also tattoo removing creams on the market which are not proven to work. They are thought to assist with sloughing off skin cells and thus the tattoo layer by layer, which usually takes a long time and still may not reach the depths of the tattoo ink.
