Is it possible to remove my black ink tattoos and what is the risk of permanent scarring? (Photos)

Black ink is typically the easiest ink to remove by laser, as long as all of the ink is within the skin, and not below.  We've seen cases where the artist has placed ink so deeply that it goes below all layers of the skin to the underlying tissues.  Our office has had great results with the PicoSure.

Hello, Tattoo removal can result in either scarring or ghosting. Here are some tips:
Faster pulse second technology like pico second is a better technology than nano for scarring. Experience can help patients.  Oversight from an experienced physician (best if plastic, facial plastic or dermatology) will likely result in safer outcomes.Stay out of the sun— sunlight can be harmful to healing in after any laser procedureAvoid infections- This means keep your tattoo area clean (i.e. don’t garden right after a tattoo removal on your arm, etc), don’t pick scabs or blisters if they occur.  Follow our post procedure instructions.  Avoid swimming for 48 hours as water can infect the treated areas.Allow healing between treatment sessions- typically 4-8 weeksBe healthy- while the tattoo laser breaks up the tattoo particles, your body will actually eliminate the particles in one of 3 ways.  being healthy will help achieve this process faster and allow for consistent healing.Cost of tattoo removal
Typical cost will range from $50 to $500.  The cost of tattoo removal in our practice varies on the size, location, and type of tattoo.  The cost also depends on what type of technique is utilized (R0, R20). We don’t charge for anesthetics/ nitrous (great for sensitive patients)/ zimmer chiller/ etc.Other considerationsWhile you can save money per session with outdated technology (less powerful Pico lasers are not as effective since they do not create enough impact to break up the tattoo), ultimately patients will require additional techniques
 In our practice we utilize the currently most powerful Pico laser on the market called the PiQo4 by Lumenis.  The main advantage of a stronger tattoo laser (combining nano and pico wavelengths at greater power) is faster breakup of the tattoo.  The science of tattoo removal is complex but essentially the greater power will photo acoustically break up tattoo particles in smaller pieces.
Best,
Anil Shah

Thank you for your question. Pico lasers are the most advanced technology. In my practice I utilize the PiQo4 laser which has 4 Pico wavelengths making it possible to remove tattoos in as little as 4-6 treatments on average. While scarring is a risk it is rare and also less likely with Pico lasers and an experienced provider. Complete removal is possible but not every tattoo responds with complete removal. There are a variety of factors the contribute to the removal process such as the location of the tattoo, the sharpness of the ink, skin tone and how quickly your body eliminates the ink. I have been practicing tattoo removal for 20 years. I feel that is is important to seek an experienced tattoo removal provider with the latest technology. I hope this helps. Best wishes.