Stephanie DeSimone, PA-C
Stephanie DeSimone, PA-C
HOW LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORKS
The laser uses an intense beam of light to remove and lighten the tattoo, without harming the surrounding healthy skin cells. The light energy may be delivered as a continuous wave of light or in pulses. Black tattoo pigment absorbs all laser wavelengths, making it the easiest to treat. Other colors, such as red, selectively absorb green laser light. Various colors can only be treated by selected lasers based upon the pigment color. When the ink particles of the tattoo absorb the light from the laser, they are broken up into tiny fragments. These fragments are then absorbed through the body's natural cleansing mechanism, fading and removing the tattoo. This cleansing process generally takes several weeks.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING LASER TATTOO REMOVAL
Depending on the size and color of your tattoo, the number of treatments will vary. Your tattoo may be removed in two to four visits, though many more sessions may be necessary. All of this information will be provided to you during your initial consultation at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center.
Tattoo removal varies from patient to patient and depends on the age, size and type of tattoo (amateur or professional).
The treatment itself consists of placing a hand-held connected to the laser against the surface of the skin and activating the laser light. As many patients describe it, each pulse feels like a minor snapping of a rubber band against the skin. Smaller tattoos will require fewer pulses, while larger ones require more. Most tattoos will require several treatments, with a noticeable reduction in the tattoo's appearance after each treatment.
Most patients do not require any anesthesia. However, depending on the location of the tattoo and the pain threshold for the patient, it is possible to use some form of anesthesia (topical anesthesia cream, painkiller injections at the site of the procedure).
Why go another day with unwanted body art that can now be removed with the use of advanced laser technology?
If you are interested in laser tattoo removal, speak to one of the doctors or physician assistants at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center so we can give you all of the facts you need to make an informed decision.
If you have questions, we are happy to help. Call us in Monmouth County at 732-460-9555.