Tattoo Removal

If you have an unwanted tattoo, there are several methods of removal including creams (which gradually fade the tattoo away), cryosurgery (the area is frozen before removal), dermabrasion (the surface and middle layers of your skin are sanded, removing the tattoo) and surgery (a surgeon uses a scalpel to remove the tattoo). There is also laser tattoo removal which has become the standard method, and the most popular, in removing tattoos. Dr. Youssef is an experienced laser specialist with special training in tattoo removal.

How Laser Removal Works
With laser tattoo removal, short pulses of intense light from the laser pass through layers of skin to break up the tattoo ink pigment into small particles that are absorbed by the body. While laser treatment is not painful, there may be some discomfort. The sensation is described as being snapped with a rubber band and having a sunburn afterward. We do recommend using a topical anesthetic cream before treatment and an antibacterial ointment afterward for greater comfort.

Laser tattoo removal is not an instant process, and may require a series of treatments with the number dependent upon the size, location and color of the tattoo. After the first treatment, subsequent treatments can be scheduled every 6 – 8 weeks, which is the amount of time it takes for the pigment to break down. As you continue treatment, you will notice the colors beginning to fade and lighten, and will eventually be almost invisible. Some ink colors are harder to target and may require additional treatment sessions.

Side effects for laser tattoo removal are minimal, but may include permanent scarring, excessive coloring or fading of the skin, and infection.

Benefits of Laser Removal