Does laser tattoo removal have major health risks?

Question

I would like to know if tattoo removal has major health risks.. infertility, birth defects, can it affect my organs. .. my tattoo is all black ink I've had one treatment already. But I don't want to continue if I'm putting my body at risk

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Laser tattoo removal is a common procedure that has longterm benefits. Like all medical procedures, there may always be rare complications that are written in textbooks.  Your laser specialist should be aware of these problems. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

The fact is that nobody knows, as some tattoo inks have many carcinogenic materials (heavy metals etc in them).  However, in all the years I have done tattoo removal I have not seen any long term issues.  If you are concerned go to someone who uses the MicropenTR which is not a laser and can be used for tattoo removal.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Pamela Carr, MD · Answer

Your body has been trying to remove the tattoo ink since it was originally implanted.  The ink is a foreign body and your immune system has been working hard to eliminate what your body sees as an invader.  That is why older tattoos no longer have crisp lines and seem to lighten and fade away.  The laser tattoo removal assists your body in removing the unwanted ink.  The laser shatters the tattoo particles into very small pieces that your body's white blood cells can carry away and eliminate.  You are not at risk for serious health problems by pursuing laser tattoo removal.  Wishing you all the best! Dr Carr

Does laser tattoo removal have major health risks?

Answers (3)

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