How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
Lasers emit a powerful but safe, single wave-length beams of light. Laser light, properly utilized, can pass harmlessly through skin layers to reach the ink in your unwanted tattoo. The ink particles are broken down into many smaller ink particles. The smaller particles are processed by the body’s natural cleansing mechanism and removed.
Does tattoo removal hurt?
The removal process is described as equivalent to the discomfort they experienced when their tattoo was originally applied. However, to make the removal of your tattoo as pain-free as possible we can apply both mechanical and pharmaceutical agents. We begin your procedures with the application of a local anesthetic cream to anesthetise the skin.
How bad does tattoo removal hurt?
The local/tumescent anesthesia is a painless infiltration of local anesthetic given by our cosmetic surgeon. Most patients are fine with a topical lidocaine/tetracaine gel, but for large areas, or for patients with hyper-sensitive skin, we can use the tumescent anesthesia to help insure all your treatments are virtually pain free.
Can anyone remove my tattoo with lasers?
High-tech laser equipment experience and techniques are all critical to safe and successful tattoo removal. Each tattoo is unique. Different inks in different people differ in response to treatment. It is important to customize every treatment plan, choosing which lasers to use, the correct wavelength, the optimal energy levels and laser spot sizes necessary for the safest, quickest and most effective treatment of your unwanted tattoo.
How many treatments does tattoo removal take?
Latest laser technology will minimize the number of sessions required to remove your tattoo. Depending on the color of the ink we have found that typically 2 to 6 sessions are required. Ink clears gradually with treatments. Treatments are separated in time by 2-6 weeks in order to allow the body’s immune system to clear the layered ink. Over time, the tattoo color appearance fades.
Does my tattoo size determine how many treatments I will need?
No. Most people mistakenly believe that a tattoo’s size determines the number of treatments needed. Other factors are more important. Certain color inks and the style of tattoos are more challenging to remove and may require more treatments than others.
On what areas of the body can laser tattoo removal be performed?
Tattoos of all sizes are treatable throughout the entire body.
Can I lighten my tattoo to be able to cover it with a new tattoo?
Sure! Tattoo artists often refer us patients to lighten or fade their tattoos so that cover up work and adjustments can be made. This allows for greater choice in new tattoo design and improves the final result.
Am I going to have to take off from work or school for tattoo removal treatments?
No. Most people go back to work or school the same day or next. The only exceptions may be my patients with multiple tattoos, sleeves or very large tattoos. Sometimes these patients choose to take a day off.
How much does tattoo removal cost?
Laser tattoo removal is affordable for even the tightest budgets. We assess your tattoo on an individual basis.
Am I a candidate for laser tattoo removal?
There are only a few things that will prevent you from being about to receive tattoo removal:
1. If you are pregnant it is recommended that you wait for tattoo removal
2. If your tattoo is brand new, within the last 6-8 weeks