Redondo Beach Doctors

How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Tattoo Removed? Is There an Age Requirement?

I'm 15 years old and I have a small tattoo on my right hip.. I got it when I was very drunk and don't remember it and just recently told my parents and they want me to get it removed and pay for it with my money. Is there an age requirement? Is it even worth it? Help please!!

Laser tattoo removal works by breaking up the ink pigment in your skin. The smaller particles are then carried away from the surface by lymphatic and blood vessels. So the maturity level of your skin should not be a factor. 

Your doctor will be able to give a estimated number of treatments needed for successful removal. This is done through a rating scale called Kirby Desai. The combined score will give you an idea of the time frame and cost involved. Each session will need to be spaced about 4-6 weeks apart.

It looks like your tattoo might be a simple case since it is black. And the location should be easier to remove than your extremities (arms, hands, legs, ankles and wrists). When choosing a doctor, it is really important that you find someone who is board certified who has the skills and expertise in laser tattoo removal.

Sanusi Umar, MD

Redondo Beach Dermatologic Surgeon

How Many Treatments Would You Imagine it Taking to Remove this Black Tattoo? (photo)

I have a a large all black tattoo on my upper arm which I wish to have removed. I was told that exercise significantly aids the process of tattoo removal, is there any truth in this or is it an old wives tale? Also i have been quoted wildy different estimates for removal time, ranging from 10 treatments over a a year or so, to 20 treatments over a 2 year period. I understand its not an exact science but what would you imagine would be nearer the mark in your professional experience?

In order to get a more accurate idea of how many treatments it will take to remove your tattoo, consult with a board certified dermatologist. There is a rating scale called Kirby Desai which assigns numerical values to your particular skin type and tattoo.

There are 6 categories that are considered (skin type and your potential for tanning, the location of the tattoo on your body, the amount of ink used, any layering that is involved, scars or tissue changes and the ink colors involved)

The final outcome should give a combined score that reflects the number of treatments needed for successful removal. Black ink is the easiest to remove. And tattoos on the upper arm are also relatively easy. There is an abundant availability of blood and lymph vessels to help eliminate the pigment. 

Sanusi Umar, MD

Redondo Beach Dermatologic Surgeon

How Long Does It Take to Remove a Tattoo?

i want to get a 6 x 6 inch tattoo removed, and was wondering how long itwou;d take to get it removed? also, how often are the removal treatments?

Ask your dermatologist about your score for the Kirby Dessai scale. Your case will be given scores along six parameters: colors involved, anatomical location of the tattoo, your Fitzpatrick skin type (how well you tan), layering, amount of ink and the presence of scarring or tissue change. The final score will tell you how many treatments are estimated for successful tattoo removal results.

Because it will take time for your body to absorb the pigment particles after the laser procedures, procedures need to be spaced at 4-6 week intervals.

Sanusi Umar, MD

Redondo Beach Dermatologic Surgeon