The request to have tattoos removed occurs regularly and always for different reasons.
Whether you need to be tattoo-free for employment, you're joining the armed forces, you have tattoo regret, you aren't happy with how your tattoo turned out, you're experiencing a major life change and need to start fresh or you've simply changed your mind, we've got you covered!
Regardless of your reason, our top of the line laser center can fade all ink colors safely and effectively, leaving you with a fresh canvas upon which you can print your next masterpiece...or start over with a clean slate.
If you're considering laser tattoo removal, you're probably wondering if it's really worth it. The good news is that it’s a safe and effective treatment that can help you overcome tattoo regret. Here's everything that you need to know about laser tattoo removal before making a decision.
How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?
During laser tattoo removal, a high-intensity laser beam is passed over the tattoo, breaking up the ink into tiny fragments. Your body then disposes of these fragments through its lymphatic system. Keep in mind that tattoo removal is a gradual process and good results take time to avoid damage to the skin.
Depending on the size and location of the tattoo, laser tattoo removal can take anywhere from several months to upwards of a year. The total number of sessions required is also dependent on factors such as the patient's skin type, the ink color, and the depth of the tattoo. This can range for each individual.
Can You Completely Remove a Tattoo?
Yes, it’s possible to remove a tattoo completely. However, it’s essential to note that the removal process can be quite costly, and it’s not always 100% successful. The success of the removal depends on several factors, such as the size and location of the tattoo, the type of ink that was used, the color of the ink, and the patient's skin tone. However, many patients achieve satisfactory results from tattoo removal.
If you are considering removing a tattoo, be sure to consult a qualified dermatologist to see if it is the right decision for you. Even if your tattoo can’t be removed completely, laser tattoo removal can fade it and make it easier to cover with another tattoo that better suits your taste.
Is It Easier To Get Rid of a New or Old Tattoo?
Tattoos can be removed with laser treatment regardless of when they were applied, as long as the skin has fully healed over from the application. A newer tattoo, though, will most likely require more treatments than an old one, as older ink is easier to remove than new ink. Older tattoos have already been faded by sun exposure and bodily rejection over time.
How Many Treatment Sessions Will I Need?
The number of treatment sessions required for laser tattoo removal can vary depending on many factors, such as the size and color of the tattoo, the location of the tattoo on the body, the type of ink that was used by the artist, and the individual's skin tone. In general, most people will need between 6 and 12 treatment sessions to see significant results.
What Should I Expect During the Treatment?
Laser tattoo removal is a treatment that uses concentrated pulses of light to break down the ink in a tattoo. The ink absorbs the light, which causes the ink to fragment into smaller pieces. These pieces are then slowly absorbed by the body over time.
Laser tattoo removal usually requires a series of treatments, and each session takes place 6-8 weeks apart. During each treatment session, you will likely experience discomfort as the laser pulses penetrate the tattooed area. Most people only experience mild discomfort for a short period of time. The sensation is often compared to the feeling of getting a the original tattoo.
The area most commonly frosts or scabs over and is covered with a bandage for several days after each treatment. The area must be protected from sun exposure or irritants as it heals. With each treatment, the ink is being broken down more and more, so the tattoo will continue to fade more with each session. To fully break down and cart away the pigment, it will take a full series of treatments, so patience and diligence with your care are extremely important.
Learn More About Laser Tattoo Removal in Rockford
Laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted tattoos. At our Rockford practice, we use the latest laser technology to remove tattoos of all sizes and colors.
If you're considering tattoo removal, we invite you to learn more about laser tattoo removal and how it can help you achieve your goals. Contact our office today at (815) 229-9333 to schedule a consultation. We can help you determine if laser tattoo removal is right for you.