Fraxel to Remove Colored Tattoo?

asked 3 years ago by anon
Latest answer by Andrew Miller, MD
Question viewed 1,874 times
Tags: fractional laser, laser

i have a tat from years ago that's in 4 colors...on my left bicep...i was reading about lasers like fraxle...is this best laser tattoo removing option?

5 answers to Fraxel to Remove Colored Tattoo?

Fraxel is not for tattoo removal...

Fraxel is a laser treatment that can improve sun damage, wrinkles and other signs of age. It is a treatment that helps the appearance of the skin look more youthful. Even though Fraxel is an excellent laser for skin improvement, it is not used to remove a tattoo. One effective option for removing a tattoo is the Q-switched Nd:Yag laser. Be sure to discuss your concerns fully with you doctor before undergoing any procedure. more

Andrew Miller, MD
Edison Facial Plastic Surgeon

Fraxel will not work

Oh, if only it was as easy to remove a tatoo as it is to get them! There would be so many less miserably unhappy people who want that old biyfriend's name off their bum. Unfortunately, it takes dozens of treatments, often with different lasers for the different colors, to begin to make those tatoos disappear. Some kind of scar or mottling is often the final outcome after thousands of dollars.

Mary Lupo, MD
New Orleans Dermatologist

Fraxel Does Not Remove Tattoos

Hi Todd, Fraxel seems to be able to do so many things, but tattoo removal is not one of them. There are other lasers that have different wavelengths that are able to target colors. Contact dermatologists in your area regarding your tattoo removal. Good luck and be well. Dr. P

Michael A. Persky, MD
Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

Fraxel is better for other applications

Fraxel is good for scars including acne scars, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation among other things. It's target in the tissues is not the colored inks that make up your tattoo. There are other lasers that do target those colors and may be helpful. Be advised that several treatments will likely be needed and perhaps more than one type of laser as well.

Bruce K. Barach, MD
Schenectady Plastic Surgeon

Fraxel is not for tattoos

Hello Todd Fraxel is a very useful laser but it is not intended for tattoo removal. I would suggest consulting with a Board-certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon who offers tattoo removal. They can explain the process, the number of treatments it will take, the expected results, and which laser will be best for you.

Francisco Canales, MD
Santa Rosa Plastic Surgeon

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