What are the chances of scarring, hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation after Q-switched laser? (photos)

Question

I am indian fitzpatrick skin type v. I had my first tattoo removal on 28 april 2010.What is the chances of scarring, hypopigmentation & hyperpigmentation. Doctors are using q switched laser, 1064 nm & power 300.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. With any laser treatment there are always risks with scarring, pigmentation and blistering that can occur. Although, the 1064nm would be the safest wavelength for your skin type, which puts you at a lower risk of complications. 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.

Jennifer Mundt, NMD · Answer

Hello and thank you for attaching a photo. I love that you are using a 1064nm wavelength...I wish it were on a Picosecond laser. The amount of sessions you will have to do with a q-switched laser is about double compared to a picosecond laser. And, the more hits you do then the greater chance you have to scar hypopigmented (white). I think you might hyperpigment no matter what due to your skin type, but generally you can help minimize the darkness of hyperpigmentation with the PicoWay Resolve or a lightening agent. Good luck!

Sachit Shah, MD · Answer

There was a pretty big study done which revealed complications of tattoo removal are around 6.4 % and that majority of those would be hyperpigmentation. I think Picosecond laser with 1064nm would be the best way to proceed and I would go slowly. 
Best Wishes

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo.  The way a laser rids the skin of unwanted ink is, it shatters the ink into tiny particles and the body absorbs those particles.  The latest technology in laser tattoo removal is the pico-second technology.  The PicoWay Laser (Candela/Syneron) uses photoacoustic impact/pressure waves rather than photothermal/heat.  This process has less heat, therefore it is more comfortable and the chances of hyperpigmentation are less.  The Pico-second pulse shatters the ink into even smaller particles, allowing the body to more easily absorb the ink.  This type of device can usually remove unwanted ink in about half as many treatments as the traditional Q-switch device. It is the heat from a laser that usually causes the hyper/hypopigmentation from laser tattoo removal.  Because the Pico technology has far less heat, the chances of scarring are also far less.
You can click on the weblink below and put in your zip code to “find a provider” of this technology in your area.
  
Good Luck!

What are the chances of scarring, hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation after Q-switched laser? (photos)

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