Laser Treatment For Tattoos
 Tattoos are applied with needles using a special ink or other pigments,
placed into the dermis of the skin. Applying tattoos to the body is now more
popular than ever, especially in our youth! Unfortunately, tattoos are
permanent, and can pose problems getting jobs because of their negative
appeal in the work force. There are many reasons for wanting a tattoo
removed. Whatever the reasons, the most effective and safest method of
removing tattoos is laser treatment. Laser treatment allows for the removal
of tattoos of various sizes, colors and shapes. Laser treatment is safer
than traditional methods like surgical excision or dermabrasion, because of
its unique ability to selectively treat pigment involved in the tattoo,
while leaving the overlying skin largely untouched. Blue and black tattoos
respond especially well to laser treatment. This very safe treatment
currently requires multiple sessions done at minimum monthly intervals, and
very often exceeds 15 sessions for the most complete removal.
The newest technique, called R20 Tattoo Removal, can significantly reduce
the number of sessions and produce near total removal. The tattoo will be
treated 4 times during your session, with 20 minute intervals between each
session. This technique has been shown to be safe and effective.
Procedure
Tattoo removal can last from several minutes to an hour depending upon the
size and type of tattoo. Anesthesia may be required depending on the
location of the tattoo and the pain threshold of the patient. If required,
topical anesthesia cream or pain relieving injections at the treatment site
can be used. You will be given protective eye shields to wear during the
treatment. The area is cleansed on and around the tattoo to remove oils on
the skin. The light from the laser passes harmlessly through the top layer
of the skin. When the light hits the brown pigment cells, energy is
released. This released energy is then absorbed by certain pigments (colors)
within the tattoo. Multiple sessions usually scheduled at four week
intervals are needed to achieve the desired results.
The Q-switched laser is used for this purpose and it is the most effective
way of removing a tattoo.
Types of Q-switched lasers include:
Nd: YAG – This type of laser is most effective on red, blue and black
pigments in tattoos.
Alexandrite – This type of laser works best on blue, green and black
pigments in tattoos.
Post operative care
Following the laser treatment, practice the following measures for better
results and to avoid any complications.
- Avoid exposure to the sun.
- Use ice packs to soothe and bandages to protect the treated area.
- Use topical cream or ointment as recommended by your dermatologist.
- Avoid scrubbing, picking, or rubbing the treated area.
- Avoid swimming pools during the treatment period.
Side Effects
Laser treatment is associated with certain side effects including
infections, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, scarring, blisters,
superficial cysts, bleeding, burns, and scab formation.
Contraindications
Patients with a history of skin hypersensitivity, keloids (scarring), skin
infections such as impetigo, or are prone to herpes are not advisable for
laser treatment.
If you want to remove your tattoo with this new exciting technique, R20
Tattoo Removal, click here to schedule your consultation with Dr. Resnik.
Click here to schedule your consultation with Dr. Resnik
See complete Wikipedia article here.
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