People get tattoos for a number of different reasons but did you know that about 25% of Americans regret their tattoo decisions at some point? Luckily, tattoos don’t need to be so permanent anymore. The team at Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery offers laser tattoo removal and other laser services to our Atlanta and Alpharetta patients.
What is Laser Tattoo Removal?
Laser tattoo removal is a procedure performed using high-intensity light pulses to remove tattoos. Tattoos are created using insoluble ink that is injected into the middle layer of the skin. Tattoos are long-lasting because the pigments are not able to be absorbed by the body.
Using a Spectrum laser and the highest standard of care, we emit concentrated beams of laser light to penetrate the outer layers of the skin. The high-intensity light beam targets the pigmented ink; breaking the ink into tiny particles, which is then naturally absorbed into the body without injury to surrounding skin.
Who is a good candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?
Anyone with an unwanted tattoo may be a candidate. Lighter skin types and black or green ink generally have the fastest and most complete clearance. The most ideal candidate for laser tattoo removal tends to be a person with a fair skin type and a dark colored tattoo. Ideally, candidates will be in good health and are non-smokers.
Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal
The primary benefit of laser tattoo removal is, unsurprisingly, the removal of unwanted tattoos. However, there are many advantages associated with this particular procedure. Benefits include:
- Removing specific sections of tattoos
- Removing full tattoos
- No scarring
- Minimal recovery
- Safe and effective procedure
- Fading tattoos
Is Laser Tattoo Removal painful?*
Some patients experience some discomfort, though the sensation associated with laser tattoo removal is typically manageable and mild. Local anesthetic can be used if discomfort is more intense.
How to Prepare for Tattoo Removal
It is best to schedule a one on one consultation with our qualified clinicians. This is a very important step in understanding what happens during a treatment of your tattoo. You will get personalized information based on your skin type, your tattoo, your medical history and your expectations. Most importantly, this is your opportunity to ask all the questions you have.
Laser Tattoo Removal Process
During this procedure, high-intensity light beams are used to shatter the large ink particles of the tattoo into smaller pieces. These light beams are so precise that they only target the ink molecules while avoiding surrounding tissue. The laser process consists of very fast, concentrated pulses of energy, resulting in the break down of particles. Due to the layering of tattoos, most patients will require multiple sessions to fully remove their tattoo. Each laser tattoo removal sessions lasts between 30 minutes to one hour.
How many Tattoo Removal Sessions will I need?
The number of treatments depends on multiple variables such as size, color, type, amount of ink used, and the age of the tattoo. On average, 5-9 sessions are needed.
Tattoo Removal Recovery Process
We warn our laser tattoo removal patients that the area of treatment will be tender for the first few days following their procedure. It is important to keep the area covered and dry for the first 24 hours following treatment. Patients should make an effort to keep this area clean and bandaged while their skin heals.
The development of blisters a few days following the procedure is normal and should not be of concern to anxious patients. However, we do advise that patients avoid irritating these blisters and allow them to heal naturally.
Laser Tattoo Removal Side Effects
While laser tattoo removal is safe for all skin types, there is the rare possibility of lightening and/or darkening of areas of the skin (hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation). Individual risks and side effects are discussed at your consultation.
Before & After Laser Tattoo Removal
Schedule a Consultation
Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery utilizes a Spectrum laser and the highest standard of care to safely remove tattoos without injury to surrounding skin. Contact our office today to schedule your Tattoo Removal consultation with our staff nurse.
*results may vary
Our providers specialize in non-surgical procedures, facial plastic surgery options and more.
If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact us to speak with one of our experts.
