It is estimated that 20 million Americans have one or more tattoos, and that approximately half of those wish they could have these tattoos removed. Prior to the development of a laser with the capability to remove tattoos, tattoo removal was an extremely difficult process that undoubtedly left conspicuous scarring.

Tattoos are created by placing colored pigments into the deep layer of the skin, known as the dermis. There are two types of tattoos, those that are placed by professional tattoo artists and those that are performed by less experienced individuals. Both types present a challenge for removal. Professional tattoos are more likely to be composed of multiple colors, but the pigment is usually placed at a uniform depth in the skin. Non-professional tattoos are more likely to be composed of only one color, but the pigment is usually present at several depths within the skin.

Several lasers have been developed that are absorbed by specific colors within the tattoo ink. When this highly concentrated beam of light strikes the pigment, it is vaporized into even smaller pieces. The body is then better able to absorb these fine pigment particles.

Does the treatment hurt?

Typically it is described as multiple rubber band snaps on the skin. Dr. revis numbs the area prior to laser application, resulting in very little discomfort.

Will I need multiple treatments?

It is likely that you will need multiple treatments to achieve total removal of a tattoo. This depends on how many colors are present, how large the tattoo is, how long it has been in place, and how much natural fading has occurred.

Where is the treatment performed?

Dr. Revis performs some tattoo removals in his office. When special lasers are required due to your individual tattoo’s appearance, your tattoo removal may be performed at a local outpatient surgery center.

How frequent are treatment sessions?

Four to six weeks are usually allowed between treatment sessions to allow your body to fully remove the pigment from the previous session.

What is the appearance of the area immediately following the procedure?

Immediately following the procedure you may see some redness and oozing from the area of the tattoo. Over the next several days some crusting may occur. It is important to keep the site clean and not to pick at any crusting that occurs.

What are the risks of the procedure?

The greatest risk of laser tattoo removal is residual hypopigmentation. Since the laser is removing pigment from the tattoo, some of your normal skin pigmentation may also be removed and this may be permanent. This would result in a lighter area of skin where the tattoo used to be.

For further information on laser tattoo removal or any other procedure, please contact Dr. Revis’ office at (954) 630-2009 for a complimentary consultation.