Treatment information

The Q-Switched, Nd:YAG laser emits light in very short flashes of light called pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band or specks of hot bacon grease on the skin. A large majority of patients do not require anesthesia. You may return to work immediately. There is no down time for this procedure. On average, professional tattoos require 5-6 treatments or even more, while amateur tattoos require 3-4 treatments, all spaced approximately one month apart. The number of treatments depends on the amount and type of ink used and the depth of the ink in the skin. Rarely, even more than ten treatments may be needed.

Do all colors of ink disappear equally as well?

No. Dark (blue/black) inks and red inks fade the best. Oranges and purples usually respond well. Green and yellow inks are the most difficult to remove, although additional treatments can produce significant fading.

What can I expect after tattoo removal?

After the procedure the area may be red or swollen, as if mildly sunburned, for five days to several weeks. There may be some bruising, and with deeper tattoos bleeding is not uncommon. Usually there will be pinpoint bleeding associated with the treatment. An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area. The treated area should be kept clean with continued application of any ointment given to you by your physician. A shower can be taken but you must keep the skin clean and dry for 5-7 seven days and the treated area should not be scrubbed. Recovery times depend on the extent of the treatment and the individual’s capacity to heal. Redness and sensitivity may continue for several weeks, and there may be discoloration and a change in skin texture in the area, which will gradually improve. You can choose to benefit from the ‘Multilase’ system, which is specifically designed for reducing the inflammation, redness and discomfort, and in general quicker recovery after your laser procedure (optional).

You should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun, as this may retard healing and hyper-pigmentation. You may not notice significant results until several treatments have been completed. 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, even though the tattooed pigment has been removed.

Am I a candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?

If you are in good health (no serious health concerns), have realistic expectations and do not have hypo-/hyper- pigmentation, tanned or Keloid scarring in your family or personal history, you may be a good candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal.

The Average Prices of Tattoo Removal

Getting a tattoo removed is much more expensive than having one put on. The price of Laser tattoo removal depends upon the size, color, type, location of the tattoo and the number of visits required. Medical insurance generally does not pay for tattoo removal, since it is considered aesthetic or cosmetic in nature. The average cost can be anywhere from $100 per session for removal of a small tattoo (intentional or trauma tattoo) to $500 for a large piece (A4 Size) per session.