Tattoo Removal

1. What treatments are available for removing tattoos? Back to Top
Lasers are now being used to effectively remove tattoos and pigment from the skin. Specifically, the Nd: Q-switched YAG laser is being used with exceptional results for those seeking to either just remove the tattoo, or to remove the tattoo in order to create a clean slate for another tattoo.

2. How do the treatments work? Back to Top
The laser emits light in very short flashes of light called pulses which scatter the pigment in the skin causing it to breakdown. The pigment eventually breaks down and is absorbed by the body.

3. What are the treatments like? Back to Top
The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band on the skin. The majority of patients do not require anesthesia, however a topical anesthesia is available.

4. How soon can I see results from treatment? Back to Top
Results can be seen as early as the first treatment where the tattoo will appear somewhat lighter in color. The impact of the laser treatment depends on the type and color of ink used to create the tattoo, and this can vary since there are no FDA guidelines involving tattoos.

5. How many treatments are needed? Back to Top
Professional tattoos may require 1-10 treatments, with the average being 5-10 treatments. Homemade tattoos may require as few as 4 treatments. Treatments should be spaced about eight weeks apart or longer and the number of treatments depends on the amount of ink used, the type of ink used, the depth of the ink in the skin, the location of the tattoo, and the patient's individual health considerations.

6. Who is the best candidate for treatments? Back to Top
Men and women in good health are considered candidates for laser tattoo removal.