Tattoo Removal

Since a tattoo is meant to be a permanent fixture, removing them may be difficult, however, there are several options currently available for doing so.

Laser therapy

The actual treatment will depend on a number of different variables, such as the placement of the tattoo, the colors used, how old it is, the size of the tattoo, and the type and color of the person’s skin.

The type of laser that is actually used will also depend upon the color pigment that was used in the tattoo. Yellows and greens are the hardest of all colors to remove, while blues and black are usually the easiest.

The types of lasers used for tattoo removal utilize a technique known as Q switching, in reference to the types of high energy pulses that are used during the process.

The three types used are called the Q-switched Ruby, the Q-switched Alexandrite, and the newest addition to this type of laser treatment is referred to as the Q-switched Nd: YAG, which is an advanced form of the process used to remove certain colors such as reds, blues, and blacks, and is also used to minimize scarring.

The majority of people receiving laser treatment for removing a tattoo will not require any anesthesia but may elect for a topical anesthetic depending on their threshold for pain.

Dermatologists usually recommend that a non-aspirin product be taken prior to laser therapy to reduce any possible bruising after treatment.

Dermabrasion

Multiple treatments may also be necessary with dermabrasion.

Surgical excision and cryosurgery

In cases of extra large tattoos, a skin graft from another part of the body may be necessary.

During cryosurgery, the tattooed portion of skin is frozen prior to being surgically removed.