How long will it take to remove my tattoo on my hand? (Photo)

Question

I have this tattoo on my left hand that i wanna remove so badly... how long will it take to remove completely.. or is it impossible.. help me please

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Everyone is different for how long it takes to remove a tattoo. The problem with a multicolored tattoo is that some patients skin color and tattoo becomes closer as the tattoo fades and becomes more difficult to completely remove in patients.Much of the tattoo is broken up by the tattoo laser. The body will eliminate the tattoo in 1 of 3 different ways including lymphatic removal, macrophages removing the particles and simple elimination through the skin. The tattoo takes time to be eliminated and patients do not return when it is 100% eliminated unless for another treatment. Keep in mind, not all patients can have 100% of removal, of the tattoo but the best approach is a combination of pico and nano technology. Depending on how many sessions you have, the lines may look faded instead of completely erased. Be sure to see a licensed technician if you decide to go froward with the treatments.
Best,Anil Shah

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Based on your photo your tattoo can be removed with laser tattoo removal. However, since your tattoo is red it will need a laser with a 532 wavelength. Laser tattoo removal is done in a series of treatments spaced 6-8 weeks apart. The cost of treatment will be determined by the number sessions is required, size, color, placement and how fast your body removes the ink. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Norman N. Bein, MD, FACS, RVT · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You can expect a series of treatments combining nanosecond and picosecond wavelengths. We use Cutera Enlighten with great success.  Initially you should be treated with nano as this will break up the ink molecules which are large and dense.  Once you have had one or two of these then picosecond  treatments will make even smaller particles to improve absorbtion by your body.  The laser breaks up the ink molecules and activates them (like when a tattoo is new) and your body pulls out the ink through lymphatics etc.  You can expect multiple treatments due to the density of the ink but black does treat the best.  We do not treat sooner than 8 weeks and have our patients on an aftercare regime between to condition the skin.  If treatments are done too soon the skin can thicken in response and make it more difficult for the laser to penetrate.  WE recommend a medical office based clinic with a good reputation and ask a lot of questions.
Best wishes.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

you will cut the number of treatments in half by using a Picosure laser. It is impossible to predict how many sessions you will need. The blacks are the easiest colors to remove and then it takes more time to remove the colors. you need to be patient and spread out your treatments, at least every 6 weeks or longer. See a board certified Plastic surgeon or dermatologist with a picosure laser. good luckdavid berman md

How long will it take to remove my tattoo on my hand? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Treat with a Picosure laser

Answer: Treat with a Picosure laser

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How long will it take to remove my tattoo on my hand? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Treat with a Picosure laser

Answer: Treat with a Picosure laser

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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.