Tattoo removal can be intimidating and mysterious. How, exactly, does laser tattoo removal even work? Does it hurt? And what else should you expect from treatment?
While the tattoo removal process is a marathon, not a sprint, modern techniques mean that tattoo removal is more effective, and more comfortable, than ever before.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
When ink is deposited in the skin, your body automatically works to remove it since it is a foreign substance. However, the ink particles are simply too big for your immune cells to manage. When laser energy comes in contact with the large ink particles, it breaks them up into tiny, more manageable pieces. Your own body is then able to remove them, using its natural healing processes.
Initial Consultation
Before a laser tattoo removal, you will have a comprehensive initial consultation. It is important to us that you thoroughly understand your treatment and that we can fully discuss your tattoo removal plan and expectations. Because we understand that tattoo removal can be an important decision, your initial consultation is completely complimentary.
Treatment
Many patients wonder whether tattoo removal hurts. While it is true that tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, you can receive numbing cream or an injection to minimize pain. And despite tattoo removal’s bad reputation, most patients describe the sensation as similar to getting their tattoo.
The good news is that the PicoSure laser is a fast, effective, and gentle option when compared to other lasers. The individual removal treatment sessions will not take as long as the tattooing process. And just like receiving a tattoo, you should feel free to ask for a break if you need one.
How Many Tattoo Removal Sessions Will I Need?
Tattoo removal is not a one-visit treatment. It will take multiple sessions to remove a tattoo. When you add together the number of sessions required and recovery time between sessions, it may take up to a year to get the results you hope for.
But don’t be discouraged. Each person and each tattoo is different, which is why it is important to talk to an experienced provider.
Tattoo Removal Recovery
Recovery is an important part of the tattoo removal process. This is the time the body will do its magic by clearing the ink and healing the skin. You will need to wait at least six weeks between sessions to allow for this process to fully take place.
After treatment, there may be swelling, tenderness, or redness. Do not be alarmed if the skin becomes slightly raised, blisters appear a day or two after treatment, or your tattoo appears darker. These side effects are normal and will go away shortly.
You will have to avoid direct exposure to the sun after treatment. Aftercare instructions will be thoroughly explained at the time of your treatment, and it is important you follow them carefully.
Tattoo Removal Results
It is important to know that results may vary. Not every tattoo will completely disappear with the anticipated number of treatments. However, lasers have been used to effectively fade and remove tattoos for decades, and patients and persistence often pay off when it comes to this process.
The great news is that the results are completely permanent, meaning once the ink is removed, it is not going to come back. For that reason, if you are serious about wanting a tattoo removed, the expense and time commitment is likely worth it in the end. You will be able to enjoy years of your life without the tattoo that you are unhappy with.
How Much Does Tattoo Removal Cost?
The cost of tattoo removal is significantly higher than getting a tattoo. The procedure requires cutting-edge equipment operated by highly trained and experienced practitioners.
Furthermore, it is also not possible to guarantee the number of sessions. However, at your initial consultation, we will discuss the cost per session and be able to estimate how many treatments may be required to get the results you want so that you have an idea of the investment you are going to be making.
Ready to Say Goodbye to Your Unwanted Tattoo?
If you are interested in learning more about whether laser tattoo removal is right for you, schedule your free appointment today.