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Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal utilizes a laser to selectively target and remove the tattoo 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. The type of laser used to remove a tattoo depends on the pigment colors of the tattoo. This treatment offers skin that is more uniform and natural in appearance.

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Tattooing is accomplished by injecting colored pigment into small deep holes made in the skin. The injected pigment creates marks or designs that are relatively permanent. For various personal reasons, people turn to surgeons to have tattoos removed.

• How is a tattoo removal procedure performed?
• How long does a tattoo removal procedure take?
• What type of anesthesia is used?
• Where is the procedure performed?
• When can I return home and resume normal activities?
• How do I prepare for a tattoo removal procedure?
• What precautions are necessary during recovery?
• What are the possible complications?
• What are the results after a tattoo removal procedure?
• Choosing the right surgeon

How is a tattoo removal procedure performed?

The tattoo area will be cleansed to remove oils on the skin. Pulses of light from the laser are directed onto the tattoo breaking up the tattoo pigment. During the procedure you'll feel intense emissions of light penetrate the area to be treated. Over the next several weeks the body's scavenger cells remove the treated pigmented areas. More than one treatment is usually necessary to remove the entire tattoo.

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How long does a tattoo removal procedure take?

On average, each laser treatment takes ten to twenty minutes. Several treatments are usually 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, so be prepared to commit a substantial amount of time to the process.

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What type of anesthesia is used?

A numbing cream applied to the skin or a local anesthetic injected under the skin can be used to minimize discomfort.

Where is the procedure performed?

Laser treatment is usually performed in the doctor's office.

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When can I return home and resume normal activities?

The same day, and normal activities may be resumed immediately.

How do I prepare for a tattoo removal procedure?

During your initial consultation, your doctor will discuss the changes that you would like to make to your appearance. Since the appearance of your skin is a matter of personal perception and preference, you will need to discuss your concerns in detail so your doctor can determine the appropriate alternatives.

Prior to your treatment, the doctor will perform a complete health history and an examination of your tattoo, as well as your overall skin tone and quality. This assessment of your tattoo and skin will determine the type of laser treatment recommended. Your doctor will also want to know when, where, and by whom your tattoo was applied, as these factors too can affect the method of treatment. Knowledge of your allergies, medications and previous surgeries should be brought to your doctor's attention at this time. Specific instructions to assist you in preparing for this procedure will be given to you after the health history and examination is complete. Your experience will be much smoother if you remain compliant with your doctor's instructions.

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What precautions are necessary during recovery?

You should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun, as this may slow the healing process. Please ask your doctor for after care instructions specific to your case, as these will assist you during your recovery period.

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What are the possible complications?

With modern lasers, extensive scarring is quite rare, although some changes in skin texture and color are may occur. The area treated by the laser may become hardened or rough, and the skin may become lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Laser treatment can also cause the development of small superficial cysts in the skin. If necessary, these cysts can easily be removed through minor surgery. Lasers can also cause burn. No procedure is without risks; however, the majority of complications known to be associated with a tattoo removal are minor. It is always important to be informed about the possible complications before any procedure. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.

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What are the results after a tattoo removal procedure?

The treated area may be red and swollen for a few weeks. There may be some bruising and depending on the depth of the tattoo, bleeding may occur. The area may be treated with an antibiotic cream to minimize infection. Additional treatments may be necessary to achieve your desired result.

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

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