What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser Tattoo Removal is a quick, non-invasive way to permanently remove a tattoo.
How does the treatment work?
The lasers work by targeting the tattoo ink with pulses of highly concentrated light that break the ink into tiny fragments, which are then cleared away the your own immune system.
The lasers work by targeting the tattoo ink with pulses of highly concentrated light that break the ink into tiny fragments, which are then cleared away the your own immune system.
How many treatments are required?
You may need anywhere from 3-6 sessions. This depends upon several factors, including size, location, the individual's ability to heal, how the tattoo was applied, amount and type of ink used, how deeply it was injected and how long it has been in place. Each session only takes minutes and three to four week intervals between sessions are required to allow pigment residue to be absorbed by the body.
Is Laser Tattoo Removal Safe?
Laser Tattoo Removal is a common, quick and relatively safe procedure.
Are there any possible side effects?
Side effects of laser procedures are generally few but may include hyperpigmentation, or an abundance of color in the skin at the treatment site, or hypopigmentation, where the treated area lacks normal skin color. Other possible side effects include infection of the site, lack of complete pigment removal and a 5 percent chance of permanent scarring.
Does it hurt?
Both getting tattoes and having them taken off can be uncomfortable. The impact of the energy from the laser's powerful pulse of light has been described as similar to being snapped by a thin rubber band.
Will there be any down time?
No, you may return to your normal routine immediately.
What conditions respond best to this treatment?
Because black pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, it's the easiest to remove. Other colors, such as green, selectively absorb laser light and can only be treated by selected lasers based on the pigment color.
What are alternative treatments?
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy, or IPL. Instead of laser light, it uses high intensity light in pretty much the same manner. A gel is applied to the skin and then a wand is used to emit pulses of light onto the skin area being treated.
Dermabrasion, which would “sand” away the top layer of skin through abrasive friction or Excision, where the tattoo would be cut away and the skin sewn back together. These are only used today in extreme cases where laser surgery is not an option.
Topical Cream Removers of which there are a few on the market that have varying levels of success at fading tattoes.
Instructions prior to treatment:
In preparation for a laser procedure, it is recommended that non-aspirin products, like Tylenol, be used for minor aches and pains prior to the procedure, because aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as Ibuprofen can produce pronounced bruising after treatment. Further pre-treatment steps might include the application of a prescription anesthetic cream. If applied, it is wiped off just before the laser session begins.
Instructions for after treatment:
Following treatment, the clinician will apply antibacterial ointment and/or dressing to the area if required. The area should be kept clean. A shower or bath the day after treatment is okay, but the treatment area should not be scrubbed. Your skin might feel slightly sunburned for a couple of days and the treated area may remain red for a few weeks. The site might also form a scab, which should be handled gently. After healing, the site will gradually and continually fade.
How much does it cost?
The price per session varies according the size of the tattoo. Currently we cater to sizes 1 through 4. Guidelines - Size 1 roughly 1sq inch or smaller. Size 4 roughly 8sq inches . Pricing can be confirmed through a consultation.
