Tattoo Removal
Tattoo removal utilizes a laser to selectively target
and remove the tattoo without damaging the surrounding
tissue, which greatly decreases scarring. Lasers have
differing wavelengths and pulse durations, and different
laser beams are absorbed by specific colors. The type
of laser used to remove a tattoo depends on the pigment
colors of the tattoo. This treatment offers skin that
is more uniform and natural in appearance.
Tattooing is accomplished by injecting colored pigment
into small deep holes made in the skin. The injected
pigment creates marks or designs that are relatively
permanent. For various personal reasons, people turn
to surgeons to have tattoos removed.
How is a tattoo removal procedure
performed?
The tattoo area will be cleansed to remove oils on
the skin. Pulses of light from the laser are directed
onto the tattoo breaking up the tattoo pigment. During
the procedure you'll feel intense emissions of light
penetrate the area to be treated. Over the next several
weeks the body's scavenger cells remove the treated
pigmented areas. More than one treatment is usually
necessary to remove the entire tattoo.
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How long does a tattoo removal procedure
take?
On average, each laser treatment takes ten to twenty
minutes. Several treatments are usually needed to achieve
the desired results. The number will vary depending
on the depth and color of the tattoo, but eight to twelve
treatments for one tattoo are not uncommon. You must
allow at least a month between treatments, so be prepared
to commit a substantial amount of time to the process.
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What type of anesthesia is used?
A numbing cream applied to the skin or a local anesthetic
injected under the skin can be used to minimize discomfort.
Where is the procedure performed?
Laser treatment is usually performed in the doctor's
office.
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When can I return home and resume
normal activities?
The same day, and normal activities may be resumed
immediately.
How do I prepare for a tattoo removal
procedure?
During your initial consultation, your doctor will
discuss the changes that you would like to make to your
appearance. Since the appearance of your skin is a matter
of personal perception and preference, you will need
to discuss your concerns in detail so your doctor can
determine the appropriate alternatives.
Prior to your treatment, the doctor will perform a
complete health history and an examination of your tattoo,
as well as your overall skin tone and quality. This
assessment of your tattoo and skin will determine the
type of laser treatment recommended. Your doctor will
also want to know when, where, and by whom your tattoo
was applied, as these factors too can affect the method
of treatment. Knowledge of your allergies, medications
and previous surgeries should be brought to your doctor's
attention at this time. Specific instructions to assist
you in preparing for this procedure will be given to
you after the health history and examination is complete.
Your experience will be much smoother if you remain
compliant with your doctor's instructions.
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What precautions are necessary during
recovery?
You should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun,
as this may slow the healing process. Please ask your
doctor for after care instructions specific to your
case, as these will assist you during your recovery
period.
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What are the possible complications?
With modern lasers, extensive scarring is quite rare,
although some changes in skin texture and color are
may occur. The area treated by the laser may become
hardened or rough, and the skin may become lighter or
darker than the surrounding skin.
Laser treatment can also cause the development of small
superficial cysts in the skin. If necessary, these cysts
can easily be removed through minor surgery. Lasers
can also cause burn. No procedure is without risks;
however, the majority of complications known to be associated
with a tattoo removal are minor. It is always important
to be informed about the possible complications before
any procedure. Be sure to discuss any concerns you may
have with your doctor.
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What are the results after a tattoo
removal procedure?
The treated area may be red and swollen for a few weeks.
There may be some bruising and depending on the depth
of the tattoo, bleeding may occur. The area may be treated
with an antibiotic cream to minimize infection. Additional
treatments may be necessary to achieve your desired
result.
Most people are satisfied with the pigment removal
achieved through laser treatment. It is important to
remember, however, that your skin will never look as
it did before you had the tattoo.
.
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Choosing the right surgeon
To obtain further information regarding ear surgery,
we advise you to consult with a qualified and experienced
board-certified plastic surgeon. Regardless of the type
of procedure you are considering, it is crucial to choose
the right surgeon for your individual goals. To receive
a complimentary consultation with a specialist in your
area, simply fill out our Online
Referral Form or call Toll
Free 800.434.6760.
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