Is partial tattoo removal possible to lighten dark areas? (Photos)

Question

I have a ribbon tattoo on my wrist that needs help. What really bothers me is how dark the borders are, making the margins blurry and dark. In fairness it was a coverup, so it is actually part of the older tattoo appearing. Is it possible to have laser tattoo removal treatments to just certain areas To clean up the extra dark areas? Can a tattoo removal specialist be artistic enough to steer the laser, or is it not precise enough? Who would do this if possible, dermatologist possibly?

Adaeze Okeke, MD · Answer

It is absolutely possible to just lighten part of a tattoo. The laser "beams" are very precise and under expert guidance can target just the areas you want faded. The degree of fading may be difficult to control as that is more determined by the deposition and composition of the ink. There are many dermatologists, plastic surgeons and other physicians who have tattoo removal lasers in their clinics. It sounds like you are already doing your homework. Look for an experienced provider in your area. Good luck!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for
your question and photographs. In my office, I
like to use Picosure
laser which has a short pulse duration that exceeds photothermal action and
results in an intense photomechanical impact. This adds up to faster results
and fewer treatments when compared to other tattoo removal methods. It works
best on darker inks such as black and blue. However, some touch up may be
required after the removal. I recommend you consult an expert to determine the
best treatment plan for you.

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to remove portions of a tattoo and be very precise about it. Because it takes five to eight sessions to remove a tattoo completely, you can also fade colors by doing just three or four sessions. Your guess that tattoo removal is best handled by a board-certified dermatologist is correct. It's always optimal to use a professional with expertise in a delicate situation like this.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

The way the laser is absorbed by the skin/tattoo is not precise. There are likely to be areas of more or less tattoo remaining in the areas treated. A touch up is likely after treatment. To be fair, the thickness of the ink is not precise either and this will affect how easy/hard it is to remove.

Robert Pettis, MD · Answer

In our practice we are frequently asked to remove only certain areas of a tattoo, usually to allow for an artist to later revise the tattoo.  We use the PicoSure laser system, with good results, however, some fine touch up may be required after the removal.  There are many factors that will impact the results which include the type of ink(s) that were used, as well as your body's own response.  I recommend seeking out (free) consultations with experienced physicians, and ask to see before and after pictures of previous results.

Mark Taylor, MD · Answer

Part of the tattoo can be removed with laser, but count on needing a touch up after the laser treatment.  Light scatters when it enters the skin, so precise removal of the part of the tattoo is usually not possible.

Daniel J. Ritacca, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is possible to remove just a portion of a tattoo. In my practice I utilize Pico laser technology which is the most advanced. Pico lasers remove tattoos in fewer treatments then older laser systems. I would recommend not only seeking the best technology but an experienced provider. Best wishes!

Is partial tattoo removal possible to lighten dark areas? (Photos)

Answers (7)

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