What is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal uses a Q-switched laser to non-invasively break down ink particles in an unwanted tattoo. This treatment is highly effective with minimal side-effects and is an outpatient procedure with minimal downtime.

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Who is a Good Candidate?

If you have an unwanted tattoo that causes embarrassment or self-consciousness, or you are unhappy with the changes your tattoo has undergo with the natural aging process of your skin, you may be able to benefit from laser tattoo removal. The best candidates for laser tattoo removal are those with uniform tattoos made with dark colored ink.

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How is Treatment Done?

Treatments are done in the laser suite with topical or local anesthetic. A handpiece will be used to emit short laser pulses that are absorbed by the tattoo, causing the ink to break down while causing no harm to surround tissues. Any broken-down ink particles will be removed by the body’s immune system during the healing process.

Patients will require multiple treatment sessions to achieve desired results. The number of sessions needed will depend on the size and depth of the tattoo.

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Laser Tattoo Removal Recovery

Most patients are able to return to work and everyday activities immediately after laser tattoo removal. Following treatment, an ice pack will be applied to the treatment area to soothe any redness or discomfort. Patients can expect to experience scabbing after the procedure for one to two weeks.

Laser tattoo removal results are permanent, though it may take as many as 12 sessions to obtain desired results.

If you are interested in removing an unwanted tattoo with laser tattoo removal, contact our Farmington Hills office today to schedule a consultation.  Visit our blog page for more information.

How painful is laser tattoo removal?

Your laser tattoo treatment plan will vary depending on the size, location, and colors of the tattoo you wish removed. Patients have described the sensation of treatment as the snapping of a small rubber band against the skin, although Dr. Baird can use local and topical anesthetics to reduce the discomfort you feel.

Can laser completely remove tattoos?

In many cases, tattoos can be completely removed. However, some pigments are difficult or nearly impossible to remove, as laser treatments are better at targeting dark pigments than light ones.

Are old tattoos easier to remove?

Generally speaking, older tattoos can be more easily erased than newer ink, as they likely have already experienced some fading, which indicates that there is less pigment that needs to be eliminated.

How long does a tattoo continue to fade after laser treatment?

As your immune system isolates and removes the microparticles of pigment that the tattoo removal laser created, your tattoo will fade. Although each patient’s experience is different, this process usually takes between four to six weeks to be completed.

Why do you have to wait 6 weeks between laser tattoo removal?

You need to wait between each laser tattoo removal treatment session because your body will continue to flush out pigment for several weeks following a session. Being treated during this time can lead to ineffective results.

How many sessions does it take to remove a black tattoo?

Every tattoo removal patient has different treatment plans depending on the size, location, and color of their tattoo. The number of treatment sessions usually ranges between five and eight sessions, although for large, colorful tattoo removal, this can easily extend to 10 or more.

What should I avoid after tattoo removal?

After laser tattoo removal sessions, it’s important to keep the treated area protected from the sun, as skin will be more sensitive than usual for a few days. Your skin will likely scab over following treatment, and it’s important not to pick at the scabs to avoid scarring. Dr. Baird will give you full instructions for recovery from your unique procedure during a consultation.