Laser tattoo removal allows you to remove or revise that unwanted tattoo without residual scarring. So, is it painful? The short answer is, it can be. In general, you can expect the removal process to be more comfortable than getting your initial tattoo. In fact, most patients say it hurts much less than expected.
Laser Skin Care Center uses advanced technology to remove your black or multi-colored tattoos with minimal discomfort during or after treatment. Let’s take a closer look.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Some factors that affect the speed of removal include your skin type, tattoo’s location, ink colors, and whether there is any layering or scarring. Prior to treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied to keep you comfortable throughout your session. In most cases, you can expect to be in and out of the office within the hour.
Laser Skin Care Center uses Q-switching Alexandrite lasers because they precisely target tissue while leaving the surrounding area undamaged. Q-switching refers to the technique of producing a high-intensity laser beam in very short pulses. Without a high enough energy in each pulse, the tattoo cannot be removed. Thanks to this advanced technology, we’re able to fade your unwanted tattoo much more quickly than alternative methods.
Will It Leave a Scar?
The main concern for most patients is whether laser tattoo removal will leave permanent scarring. While it is uncommon for patients to experience scarring from these treatments, it may be possible.
Predisposition to Scarring
Some patients may have a history of keloids and therefore, predisposed to scarring. This should be discussed during your consultation with our specialists.
Existing Scar Tissue
A Q-switched laser breaks down the pigment of your tattoo. It will also break down the pigment within any existing scar tissue left from when the tattoo was originally applied, increasing visibility of this pre-existing scarring.
Aftercare is Crucial
Following aftercare instructions is vital to reducing the likelihood of scarring. Picking at scabs and blisters during the healing process may lead to scarring and should be avoided.
Tattoo Revision at Laser Skin Care Center
If you aren’t looking to have your entire tattoo removed, or are planning to get a cover-up, a revision may be best suited for you. Precision is required if you want to remove a selected portion of your larger piece, such as a name or an area that was botched. Simply fading a tattoo in preparation for a cover-up requires fewer sessions than complete removal.
Tattoo removal treatment plans are as unique as your tattoos. This is why the specialists at Laser Skin Care Center use the best laser available and provide realistic expectations for meeting your goals.
Take the Next Step
If you’d like to learn more about Laser Tattoo Removal, please fill out the form on this page or call (562) 997-1144. Laser Skin Care Center proudly serves the Long Beach, CA area and offers a variety of cosmetic dermatology services.
*Individual results may vary.
