Lori Haney RN

I believe the reason why you are only reading negative experiences is because the people don't write back to report on the final outcome which is usually the case. Also, those that are usually pleased do not share in forums. I would suggest you find a good pratitioner that is willing to spend some time with you as a consulation to answer your questions and concerns. It is not unusual for my female patients to be concerned that they may have too much product resulting in an unnatural appearance. Your treatment plan should be developed with your input, your goals, and a clear understanding of what your final outcome should be. Ask questions! Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

Hi Kaelyn, I'm hoping that your practitioner provided you with good verbal and written post-treatment instructions that should offer reassurance. Intermittent icing with frozen pea bags will help, consider using Tylenol for any discomfort, and I would strongly discourage any massaging as lips are known for delayed bruising and more swelling if the patient manipulates the area too much. If you do not begin to see progressive, gradual improvement, call your practitioner for further advice. Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

This was excellent information for those considering laser tattoo removal. The key term you used is "tedious", and I couldn't agree more. Unfortunately, many patients don't want to accept this as a fact and believe that being overly aggressive in treatments will render quicker, better results. The trade off may very well be a permanent scar in the shape of the tattoo you are trying to remove! Removing tattoos is quite a skill wherein technology, skill, and skin type make all the difference. Yes, it hurts quite a bit even with topical numbing measures. However, the procedure is quite fast compared to placing a tattoo. Hopefully, that adds some comfort to those concerned with the pain issue. We used a Zimmer cooling machine that blows ice cold air on the skin the entire time. Most of our patients say that this was far more helpful (and free)than the numbing options. It also helps reduce trauma to the epidermis. Thank you for sharing your experience. Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

The process of removing permanent make up is challenging even with the correct technology. Because the ink degrades to different colors with laser treatments, it's important to find a practitioner that has more than one laser/wavelength to complete the treatment plan from start to finish. I would be interested in knowing if you have an ablative (invasive) laser treatment or non-ablative treatments. Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer

Dr. David Goldberg (your treating physician) is quite a laser expert in his own right - being that you invested much time and money in your treatment plan, I would encourage you to direct your important question to him - a panel member on this website as well. Although steroid injections may be an option, one would need to weigh the risks vs. benefits as you had suggested. If there is concern that the raised area is related to the laser treatments, you should ask Dr. Goldberg what your best options are with regard to laser scar revision and/or steroid injections. In any event, it should be addressed. Lori Haney, RN, MEP-C Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer