Will laser tattoo removal leave any scarring? (Photo)

Question

I got this tattoo on my hand a little over a month ago, but it didn’t heal probably. I accidentally scratched it twice and I can see the two small scars on it. Will the scars be a problem? Can I still get my tattoo removed without the scarring getting worst? Also how many treatments will it take?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi PH.  It's difficult to see the scarring you reference, but with your skin type and tattoo color, it should be very straightforward to remove the tattoo with no scarring.  A q-switched Nd:Yg (1064) laser is ideal and there are many types.  We encourage you to attend a consultation or two and evaluate before and after photos of the practice to get an idea of whether or not they can accomplish the removal.  Best of luck.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Scars from getting a tattoo will not pose a problem when getting laser tattoo removal. Once the ink is gone, the scarring will typically be more pronounced, but should not become any worse. Several treatments are required for complete removal. The location of the tattoo, your skin type, amount and color is ink are all factors that will determine how many sessions will be required. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Douglas Wu, MD · Answer

The PicoWay laser uses high bursts of energy to shatter tattoo pigments so that your body can flush the particles away over time, and will not scar your skin if performed by a board-certified dermatologist who’s an expert in tattoo removal. You should not begin removing your tattoo for at least another month. Your skin needs two months to heal after a new tattoo or a tatto-removal session— otherwise, you will scar. As for the scars you already have, if they don’t resolve over time, your dermatologist can hep you with them, too, using lasers or microneedling. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist will get you the best and safest results.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can be removed with laser tattoo removal with minimal risk of scarring. Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers. We also use the pfd patch to help speed up the process. It will take a series of treatments, but it's difficult to determine how many sessions will be needed. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Brian Citro, MD · Answer

Thanks for posting with a photo. Scarring can occur with tattoo removal which is why you want to make sure you are seeing a professional. The most likely way to get a scar is from an overzealous treatment with a Q-switch laser. Pico lasers are best for tattoo removal especially if they have nano second and pico second settings. Please choose a reputable professional before starting treatment. Best of luck.

Will laser tattoo removal leave any scarring? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal Facts--takes a series of treatments

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal Facts--takes a series of treatments

Answer: Scarring should not be an issue

Answer: Scarring should not be an issue

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Will laser tattoo removal leave any scarring? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal Facts--takes a series of treatments

Answer: Laser Tattoo Removal Facts--takes a series of treatments

Answer: Scarring should not be an issue

Answer: Scarring should not be an issue

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.