Although they are usually meant to be permanent artwork on the body, tattoos can be removed. Many people get tattoos when they are young and them find themselves in positions later in life when their tattoos become a detriment to their personal or professional lives. Even though laser tattoo removal is a common practice, there are some side effects that you should take into consideration.
Scarring
Even though the tattoo may be gone, there may be a permanent mark left on the skin that is caused by the damage done from both the original inking procedure and the laser removal. According to TattooHealth.org, if all of the ink was not able to be removed, the scar may actually be in the form of a faded image of the tattoo.
Blistering
Blistering and burning of the skin are both common side effects when lasers are used to remove a tattoo. In most cases, the blistering and burning only lasts for a short time and generally does not last more than six months after the procedure has been completed.
Infection
Although it is a rare side effect, infections are possible with laser tattoo removal. After the procedure, you may be instructed to apply an antibiotic ointment to the area where the tattoo was removed. The ointment will aid in reducing the risk of infection.
Loss of Pigmentation
When having a tattoo removed, it is possible that the skin from the immediate area around the tattoo may turn lighter than the skin around it. This side effect is not common and the loss of pigmentation may or may not be permanent.
Swelling
According to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery, swelling normally occurs immediately after the laser-removal procedure and is usually short-lived. Applying ice or cold packs to the affected area will help reduce the swelling in most cases.
Scabbing
Just like when you have any other type of injury to your skin, scabbing may develop at the location where the tattoo was removed. Typically, the scabbing will last no longer than two weeks and doesn't usually leave any permanent damage.
Self Esteem
One positive side effect of laser tattoo removal is higher self esteem. This is especially true if the tattoo served as a reminder of a past relationship that went wrong or affiliations in gangs and other negative groups.
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