Decorative tattoos have
a history dating back at least 5000 years. The desire to remove
them has probably existed just as long. Early attempts to remove
tattoos included sanding, cutting, and burning of the skin, which
left scarring. These removal techniques were replaced by dermabrasions,
salabrasions, and C02 lasers, which still left scarring and could
not differentiate tattoo colors. Since the early 90's the advent
of Q-switched lasers permitted the removal of darker tattoo inks
with very low risk of scarring. The latest generation of Q-switched
lasers developed in the late 90's is the newest system capable of
removing multiple tattoo inks. The laser uses an intense beam of
light to remove and lighten the tattoo, without harming the surrounding
healthy skin cells. The light energy may be delivered as a continuous
wave of light or in pulses. When the ink particles of the tattoo
absorb the light from the laser, they are broken up into tiny fragments.
These fragments are then absorbed through the body's natural cleansing
mechanism. This cleansing process generally takes several months.
Tattoo removal options
We offer complete removal, lightening, or partial removal of tattoos.
An example would be removing a name inside of a banner. We skillfully
remove the name without disturbing the surrounding tattoo. We encourage
patients to consider lightening existing tattoos before applying a
professional cover-up. Commonly existing tattoos are visible underneath
a cover-up.
How are tattoos removed?
The Nd: Q-switched YAG laser is the newest & one of the most effective
ways to remove tattoos. Earlier methods in tattoo removal involved
the use of dermabrasion, salabrasion, surgery and CO2 lasers, but these
procedures left behind scars or lighter skin in place of the tattoo.
Is the tattoo removal
painful?
The laser emits light in very short flashes of light called pulses.
The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar
to the snap of a thin rubberband on the skin.
How many treatment sessions will it take to remove the tattoo?
Professional tattoos can require 1-10 treatments, with the average
being 5-10 treatments. Homemade tattoos usually require 1-4 treatments.
All treatments are spaced about two months apart or longer. The number
of treatments depends on the amount, type of ink used, and the depth
of the ink in the skin, location of tattoo, along with individual health
considerations.
Do all colors of the
tattoo ink disappear equally as well?
No, dark (blue/black) inks and red inks fade the best. Oranges, yellows,
and purples usually respond well. Green, light teal/sky blue, inks
are the most difficult to remove, although additional treatments can
produce excellent results.
Will the tattoo completely disappear?
In many cases, yes. However, it is very important to know that over
100 tattoo inks are in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated
by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink, how deep or how much was
used makes it difficult to predict the degree of removal on any given
tattoo.
What
type of post-treatment care is necessary?
A healing ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area. The
treated area should be kept clean with continued application of ointment
given to you by the health care professional. A shower can be taken
the next day, although the treated area should not be scrubbed.
