|
tattoo removal
2006-05-12
Dear Dr. Proskiw: Several years ago I got a tattoo. It was really cool then but now I no longer find it appealing and want it removed. What are my choices?
Answer: You are not alone. It is estimated that as many as 50% of those who get tattoos eventually want them removed. The removal of tattoos is difficult as the tattoos are meant to be permanent. This being said, there are several methods of tattoo removal which have proven effective.
If the tattoo is small it could be removed by excision. With this method the tattoo is removed surgically under a local anesthetic. The edges are then brought together and sutured. Another method of tattoo removal is called dermabrasion in which a small portion of the tattoo is sprayed with solution which freezes the area. The tattoo is then “sanded” with a rotary abrasive instrument causing the skin to peel. Both of these methods of treatment usually result in some scarring.
Today, most physician's consider laser surgery one of the best methods of tattoo removal.
Question: How does the laser remove tattoos?
Answer: The Medlite laser removes tattoo ink with the energy of light. The tattoo ink is removed by using a specific wavelength of light which passes through the skin but is absorbed by the ink. The rapid absorption of the light energy causes the tattoo ink to destruct, where it is then removed by the body's natural filtering systems. The use of the proper wavelength which passes through the skin combined with the rapidly pulsed light results in minimal damage to the skin.
Question: Is the process painful?
Answer: The Medlite laser emits light in very short flashes of light called pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar to the snap of a thin rubber band or specks of hot grease on the skin. The large majority of all patients do not require anesthesia.
Question: How many treatment sessions will it take?
Answer: On the average professional tattoos require 5 – 6 treatments, while amateur tattoos require 3 – 4 treatments, all spaced 6 – 8 weeks apart. The number of treatments depend on the amount and type of ink used and the depth of the ink in the skin. Rarely, as many as 10 treatments may be required.
Question: Do all colours of ink disappear equally well?
Answer: No, dark (blue/black) inks and red inks fade the best. Oranges and purples usually respond well. Green and yellow inks are the most difficult to remove although additional treatments can produce significant fading.
Question: Will my tattoo completely disappear?
Answer: In many cases, yes Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished.
However, it is very important to know that over 100 tattoo inks are in use worldwide today. Not knowing which tattoo in, how deep, or how much was used makes it impossible for the physician to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.
Recommended Links:
|
|
|
