Here is the latest on laser tattoo removal. Discussed here will be how this treatment works, how effective it is, how much it costs and how painful it will be and possible side effects.
Using lasers to remove tattoos has been around for more than a decade and the technology is getting better each year. Today, it is considered to be the number one choice for tattoo removal.
There are other methods for removal of unwanted tattoos that involve the use of creams or acid-but how well they work is in question.
Laser tattoo removal works by using light beams of high intensity that pulsate deep into the tattoo. The laser light breaks down the ink pigment and it rises to the top layer of skin which peels away. Several visits may be involved in this type of treatment. There are many factors that will cause the number of visits and treatments to vary those include: the tattoo ink color, depth of the ink, age and size of the tattoo and skin type.
The black inks respond best to the lasers and dissolves the quickest. Some ink colors like green and red are more difficult and can take more treatments.
In most cases laser tattoo removal does not require anesthesia and the treatments take just a few minutes. This is all conducted in an outpatient setting and there is no overnight hospital stay required.
Following laser treatment the patient is instructed to apply ice and a topical antibiotic ointment over the area for a few days. After the skin has peeled away and healed it will be time to return for additional treatments. The number of treatments necessary to completelyremove a tattoo can vary, as discussed above, but it can take from just a 2-3 to 8-10 or more.
For the first several days following the laser procedure it is advised to keep the treated area away from direct sunlight.
The pain associated with laser tattoo removal is compared to being pricked by many pins at the same time. Every patient will react differently to the pain. It is not unbearable, but it is also not very comfortable. For patients that have low tolerances for pain a topical anesthesia cream can be requested to numb the area.
Laser tattoo removal is not an inexpensive procedure. It can range from just a few hundred dollars to over a thousand or more.
There can be side effects from this method of treatment that may include: scarring, infection, and skin discoloration. By having the work done by a certified medical profession the side effects will be minimized.
It is very important to visit a medical professional that has is experienced in all the latest technology for laser tattoo removal. Consult with one or more professionals to make sure you are comfortable with how their procedure will take place before diving in.
This is offered as general information only and should never take the place of a medical professional.
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