Tattoo Removal
The advent of pulsed lasers has permitted the removal of most tattoo inks with a very low risk of scarring.
The ND Yag laser is the newest system in this class of lasers. The pulsed laser can significantly lighten or remove many tattoo inks. It is particularly advanced in the removal of blue, black and red inks.
The ND Yag laser removes tattoo ink with the energy of light.
Tattoo ink is removed by using a specific wavelength which passes through the skin but is absorbed by the ink. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the tattoo ink to destruct, where it is then removed by the body's natural filtering systems.
The ND Yag laser also delivers the light in very short, high intensity pulses for maximum ink destruction. The use of this specific combination of wavelength and rapidly pulsed light results in minimal damage to the skin while providing maximum tattoo ink removal.
Is the process painful?
The laser emits light in very short flashes of light called pulses. The impact of the energy from this powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band. A large majority of patients do not require anaesthesia.
How many treatment sessions will it take to remove the tattoo?
On average, professional tattoos require 5-6 treatments, while amateur tattoos may require 3-4 treatments. The number of treatments depends upon the amount and type of ink in the skin. Rarely, more than ten treatments may be required.
Do all colours of the ink disappear equally 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.
Will the tattoo completely disappear?
In many cases, yes. Greater than 95 fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However it is important to know that there are over 100 tattoo inks used worldwide today. Not knowing which tattoo ink, how deep or how much was used, makes it impossible for the operator to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.
Complications are uncommon but may include some slight bleeding or crusting, temporary redness or swelling, loss of pigment in the skin which is usually temporary or scarring which is uncommon.