If you are considering tattoo removal it is important to go to see a board certified plastic surgeon who is skilled with laser removal.

There are multiple reasons people remove tattoo work. An impetuous decision they wish they had not made, perhaps a name that is no longer associated with your life, or a bad quality tattoo.

The laser can undo what the needle has drawn. Treatments take only a short window of time to perform. They are generally performed right in your doctor’s office. Removal is done with anesthetic, topical cream for smaller regions and injectable anesthesia for larger areas.

Each session the design will become lighter and less visible.  Removal requires multiple visits as the skin needs time to heal and recover between sessions. They are spaced approximately one month apart. All ink colors are removable, though black and grey are the easiest. Others may require more sessions. Each session lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. The laser is set to target certain colors or depth of ink to give optimal results.

The laser delivers energy in short quick bursts which dissolve the ink embedded in the skin into very small particles which are then safely detoxified through normal bodily processes. Drinking extra water the day before, the day of and a few days after will help the process along.

There is very minimal risk of discomfort or scarring. If you get keloid scars, that is one of the few cases where tattoo removal may not be right for you. Following the session the treatment are may blister or scab (much like the healing process of tattooing itself.) Avoid sun exposure during the healing process. Keep it clean and dry and wash only using very mild unscented soap.

Through repeated sessions, your old tattoo will eventually be non-visible. Results vary, but most are very pleased with the outcome.

To find a certified plastic surgeon who is skilled in laser tattoo removal please visit www.ipalc.org/find.