What are some of the most common benefits of laser tattoo removal?

During laser tattoo removal, the laser is used to selectively target and break up the tattoo pigment without damaging the surrounding tissue, which greatly decreases scarring. Lasers have differing wavelengths and pulse durations, and different laser beams are absorbed by specific colors, allowing us to choose the precise laser settings for the depth and color of a particular tattoo as well as for multi-colored tattoos. After treatment the skin is more uniform and natural in appearance, although some changes in skin texture and color may be  unavoidable due to the initial tattooing process.

What will happen at the initial consultation?

During the consultation, your treatment consultant will advise you on what to expect from laser treatment. He/she will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks and limitations.

Your treatment consultant will begin with a complete medical history and an examination of your tattoo and your overall skin tone and quality. The size, style, color and location of the tattoo, as well as the color and texture of your skin, will determine the type of laser treatment recommended. We  will also ask you when, where, and by whom your tattoo was applied, as these factors too can affect the method of treatment.

How is laser tattoo removal performed?

Our highly trained nursing staff will cleanse the area on and around the tattoo to remove oils on the skin. During the procedure you’ll feel intense emissions of light penetrate the tattooed area. You may  hear a small popping noise as the laser does its work.

How long does the procedure take?

On average, each laser treatment takes from ten to twenty minutes. Several treatments are needed to achieve the desired results -- the number will vary depending on the depth and color of the tattoo, but eight to twelve treatments for one tattoo are not uncommon. You must allow at least a month between treatments to allow the body’s immune system to carry away the fragmented tattoo pigment.

How much pain is there?

You should expect some discomfort during the treatment. This is most often described as a  stinging sensation. A numbing cream applied to the skin or ice packs applied to  the skin can be used to minimize discomfort.

What can I expect after tattoo removal?

The area may be red, as if mildly sunburned, for several weeks. There may be some bruising, and with deeper tattoos pinpoint bleeding is not uncommon. The area will be dressed with an antibiotic ointment and a sterile bandage.

Recovery times depend on the extent of the treatment and the individual’s capacity to heal. Redness and sensitivity may continue for several weeks, and there may be discoloration and a change in skin texture in the area, which will gradually improve. You should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun, as this may retard healing. You may not notice significant results until several treatments have been completed.

Most people are satisfied with the pigment removal achieved through laser treatment. It is important to remember, however, that your skin may never look as it did before you had the tattoo, even though the tattooed pigment has been removed.

Am I a good candidate?

In general, the best candidates for laser removal of tattoos:

• Are physically healthy
• Are psychologically stable
• Do not smoke
• Want to change their appearance
• Are willing to commit to following the treatment protocol.
• Do not have fluorescent colors in their tattoo
• Do not have unusual scar formations, such as keloids, or scars in the tattooed area
• Do not have connective tissue disorders, such as lupus
• Are not taking Accutane, nor have taken it for the previous 6 months
• Have not had other cosmetic surgery in the tattooed area
• Are well informed about the procedure
• Hold realistic expectations about the outcome

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your treatment consultant and nurse will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Click below to request more information.