What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Nearly 30 percent of the people in the US have at least one tattoo, and among millennials, the figure goes up to almost 50 percent. However, over time, not everyone is happy about their decision to have a permanent tattoo. Up to 25 percent people feel regretful about getting a tattoo at some point.
If you are a part of that 25 percent, then you have some good news. Laser tattoo removal can help eliminate unwanted tattoo with negligible side-effects.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin provides laser tattoo removal to patients in West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar and surrounding areas in California.
How Laser Tattoo Removal Works
Targeted lasers eliminate tattoos by disintegrating the pigment colors with a high-intensity light beam. Dark tattoo pigment absorbs the maximum laser wavelengths. For this reason, black tattoo pigment is the easiest to remove. Only specific lasers can treat other colors depending on the pigment.
You should consult with a qualified cosmetic surgery or laser professional who can evaluate the condition of your tattoo and offer advice about its removal. The number of sessions will depend on the size, age, and color of your tattoo. The depth of the tattoo pigment will also determine the removal technique.
You can expect the following while undergoing a laser tattoo removal treatment:
- You will be provided with protective eye shields.
- The treatment provider will examine the reaction of your skin to the laser to identify the most suitable level of laser treatment.
- The provider will use the laser to pass intense light pulses through the uppermost layer of your skin. Only the tattoo pigment will absorb this energy.
Larger tattoos will need a greater level of laser energy to eliminate them. In any case, permanent tattoo removal will take many treatment sessions to obliterate it. The tattoo will become lighter following each treatment session
Laser tattoo removal procedure will cause some discomfort, but a majority of patients do not require anesthesia. The provider may apply a topical anesthesia cream before the treatment depending on the tattoo’s location.
After the session, immediately apply an ice pack to the treated site to soothe the area. Furthermore, use an antibiotic or ointment and bandage to protect the treated area. Make sure that you apply sun block cream to the treated area when stepping out.
Choose an Experienced Laser Specialist
Laser treatment is often safer than many other tattoo removal methods because laser selectively treats the pigment in the tattoo. And there are very few side effects as long as you choose an experienced provider.
The risk of the following potential side effects will be minimized when you choose a thoroughly trained and experienced laser tattoo removal expert:
- The site of the tattoo removal is at-risk for developing an infection. There is also a minor chance of permanent scarring.
- Your tattoo will likely not be eliminated entirely. In many instances, the removal of specific colors is more efficient than others. For example, black and blue tattoos are more responsive to treatment.
- You may develop hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
- Cosmetic tattoos such as eyeliner, lip liner, and eyebrows may become darker after this treatment.
Hard working plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin receives patients from West Covina, Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, Pasadena, Diamond Bar and surrounding areas in California and other parts of The Golden State for laser tattoo removal.
Click here to learn more about all the plastic surgery procedures and treatments cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Lin performs for patients in and around Pasadena, Chino, Rowland Heights, Baldwin Park, Whittier, Brea, Arcadia, West Covina, Inland Empire, and San Gabriel Valley. Call today to schedule a consultation 626.810.6165 or click here.
