Tattoo Removal

Many individuals have had second thoughts about tattoos. Some people develop an allergic reaction after several years. Others seek removal for social, cultural or personal reasons. Removing tattoos always takes longer than getting them and removal is not always completely successful. Various techniques have been used over the years, including forms of dermabrasion, topical acids, cryosurgery (involving freezing the tissue), surgical removal of tissue, and removal by laser. While all of these methods can remove tattoo ink, they can leave varying amounts of scarring. Amateur tattoos are the most difficult to remove because the ink is at uneven depths in the skin.

Depending on the location and size of the tattoo, and the patient’s skin color and age, more than one removal technique may be used. In many cases, multiple treatment sessions are required.

It’s important that the patient have a full understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of the different methods of tattoo removal before any procedure.