Tattoo Removal
Tattoo removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses laser technology to break up the ink particles in a tattoo, allowing the body’s immune system to naturally remove them over time. The laser targets the pigment in the tattoo, heating and breaking it up into smaller particles that can be absorbed and eliminated by the body. While tattoo removal can take several sessions to achieve optimal results, it is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos without scarring or damage to the surrounding skin.
Procedure
Tattoo Removal
Tattoo removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses lasers to break down the ink pigments in a tattoo. The laser emits a powerful beam of light that penetrates the skin and breaks down the ink particles into tiny fragments. The body’s immune system then removes these fragments over time. The number of treatments required varies depending on the size, color, and age of the tattoo, as well as the individual’s skin type. With each treatment, the tattoo fades until it is no longer visible. Tattoo removal is a safe and effective way to erase unwanted tattoos without scarring or damage to the skin.
What Can I Expect?
Pain
Tattoo removal can be uncomfortable, with some patients describing the sensation as similar to getting a tattoo. However, topical anesthesia can be used to numb the area and reduce any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Recovery
After tattoo removal, patients may experience some redness, swelling, and blistering in the treated area. This is normal and typically subsides within a few days. It’s important to keep the area clean and dry, and to avoid exposure to the sun or any activities that may irritate the skin.
Results
Tattoo removal can provide significant fading of the tattoo, but complete removal may not be possible in some cases. The number of treatments needed to achieve optimal results depends on the size, color, and age of the tattoo. Multiple treatments spaced several weeks apart are typically required for best results. While some scarring or discoloration may occur, most patients are satisfied with the overall outcome of tattoo removal.
Our Technique
Meet YMD's Expert
Dr. Ruth Hill Yeilding
Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Most of Dr. Yeilding’s patients tend to think long-term, and many receive multiple treatments over time. Although some patients may want to proceed more aggressively than others, Dr. Yeilding will restrict the scope of treatments to yield conservative but effective aesthetic enhancement. Knowing “when to say no”, verses “doing a little more” is one of Dr. Yeilding’s guiding principles.
Since all patients are different, Dr. Yeilding has found many facial filler treatments to be totally unnecessary for most patients, yet almost every patient does seem to have at least one of the issues above. Based on her detailed assessment, Dr. Yeilding will carefully create a custom treatment plan that considers your age and aesthetic goals. When there is more than one issue to consider, Dr. Yeilding will advise you to begin with the issue that can achieve the most with a single treatment.
Dr. Yeilding has received specialized training, first in Ophthalmology, to gain understanding of the ultra-complex set of muscles, nerves and blood vessels around the eye and face, and then Oculoplastics and Facial Plastic Surgery to be able to effectively manipulate facial anatomy to achieve aesthetic beauty. During her fellowship with the nationally known facial plastic surgeon, John P Fezza MD, in Sarasota FL, Dr. Yeilding learned the fundamentals of using this next generation facial filler technology to treat a wide variety of patient needs. Since then, Dr Yeilding’s patients have received significant aesthetic benefit because of her conservative, yet highly effective treatment approach using Juvéderm®, the “gold standard” in HA facial filler.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tattoo removal is generally safe for most skin types, but certain skin conditions or medical issues may affect the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your skin type and health history to determine if tattoo removal is appropriate for you.
Tattoo removal can cause some discomfort or a sensation of heat during the treatment, but most patients find it tolerable. Numbing cream or a cooling device may be used to reduce any discomfort during the procedure.
The number of tattoo removal treatments needed for optimal results depends on several factors, including the size, color, and age of the tattoo, as well as the individual's skin type and overall health. Generally, a series of 6-12 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart is recommended for best results.
While modern lasers can effectively remove most tattoo colors, some pigments may be more difficult to remove than others. Darker colors like black and blue are generally easier to remove, while lighter colors like yellow and green may require more treatments.
Prior to tattoo removal, it's important to avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks. Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking or medical conditions you have that may affect the safety or effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, it's important to follow any pre-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare provider to ensure the best possible results.