Ink is set underneath the skin with a needle to form tattoos. According to MayoClinic.com, a Q-switched Yag laser is the most common piece of equipment used to remove a tattoo. It's the same procedure used to remove other skin abnormalities and uneven skin pigmentation. Althouh the laser is effective for removing most tattoos, red, bright green and yellow ink colors are the most difficult to remove.
Preparation
Most people do not require anesthesia to undergo tattoo removal treatments, although a local numbing agent often is utilized. The stinging sensations of the laser are bearable, likened by Mayo Clinic doctors to the small burning you feel when bacon grease splatters on you. The area is cleaned and sanitized before the treatment.
Treatment
The laser shoots a beam of high-intensity light through the skin and breaks up the image. The ink is separated and breaks down into small enough pieces to be absorbed by the bloodstream. Multiple sessions usually are required, depending on the size of the tattoo. Each laser session lasts between five and 15 minutes, and is performed on an outpatient basis in the doctor's office. Cosmetic surgeons are most likely to perform tattoo removal treatments, although any physicians with the equipment can perform the procedure.
Risks
Side effects are minimal with laser surgery because the skin is not opened, reducing the risk of infections. The skin may grow back a slightly different color than the original skin, especially on darker skinned patients, leaving pigmentation irregularities. Scarring can occur, especially if you don't take proper care of the wound following the procedure. In rare cases, a raised, thick scar may appear three to six months after the treatment.
Recovery
The skin may appear burned or as if it has been scraped after the laser treatment. Ointment is applied, followed by a sterile dressing. The dressing should be changed and the wound kept clean. New skin will grow back within a couple weeks. You should avoid sun exposure on the area at least until the area heals.
Results
Mayo Clinic doctors report that tattoos rarely are completely removed with the laser. Fading is usually the best result that you can expect. According to the American Society for Dermatological Surgery, professional tattoos are removed more successfully because the ink usually penetrates the skin evenly, allowing doctors to find the proper depth for the laser and maintain it. Deep blues and blacks inserted by an amateur are the most difficult to remove because the penetration of the ink is so uneven.
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