Tattoo RemovalAbout The Procedure
Tattoos are more popular today then ever before. In a 2003 Harris poll, it was estimated that 16% of the US population has at least one tattoo. However, it is also estimated that between 17 - 50% eventually regret having their body tattoo.
The most common techniques for Tattoo Removal are Laser Surgery, Dermabrasion, and Surgical Excision.
Procedure Description
Laser Surgery. The surgeon removes the tattoo by selectively treating the pigment colors with a high-intensity laser beam. The type of laser used generally depends upon the pigment colors. In many cases, multiple treatments may be required.
Dermabrasion. The surgeon "sands" the skin, removing the surface and middle layers of the tattoo. The combination of surgical and dressing techniques helps to raise and absorb the tattoo inks.
Surgical Excision. The surgeon removes the tattoo with a scalpel and closes the wound with stitches. This technique proves highly effective in removing some tattoos and allows the surgeon to excise inked areas with great control.
Length of the Procedure
Laser Surgery. Each laser treatment takes from ten to twenty minutes. Several treatments are needed to achieve the desired results and will depend on the depth and color of the tattoo. Expect eight to twelve treatments for one tattoo. Allow at least one month between treatments.
Anesthesia
Laser Surgery. A numbing cream applied to the skin or a local anesthetic injected under the skin is frequently used.
Inpatient or Outpatient?
Tattoo Removal procedures are performed on an outpatient basis in the doctor's office or clinic.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects are generally minor, but may include skin discoloration at the treatment site, infection of the tattoo site, lack of complete pigment removal, or some scarring.
Recovery
Laser Surgery. Recovery times depend on the extent of the treatment and the patient’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 should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun. You may not notice significant results until several treatments have been completed.
Duration of Results
Unless the tattoo is surgically removed, there frequently remains a faint residual image, even after many treatments.
Cost
Expect to pay $2,000 to $4,000 for a Tattoo Removal.
Scars
A raised or thickened scar may appear three to six months after the tattoo is removed.
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