what are your thoughts on getting a Lidocaine shot before tattoo removal and what kind of side effects?

I inject all of my patients with lidocaine for tattoo removal especially if it is a large area.  However, the newer pico lasers hurt much less than the q switched lasers and often the patients only need a small amount of topical numbing cream for comfort.  I suggest seeing a laser expert for treatment.  Also, there is a new device that removes tattoos quickly without laser.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Thank you for your question. Some patients have reported that the pain of Picosure is more or less equivalent to the older lasers, such as Q-Switch. It is best to remember that everyone’s pain level is different. However, you always have the option to use topical numbing cream if you feel it is necessary. I recommend addressing your concerns with your treating physician. Best of Luck!

I used to use topical numbing cream and ice packs with my PicoSure laser tattoo removal patients, but have recently begun injecting VERY DILUTED lidocaine local anesthesia. The same patients that were coming to me before now say the treatment is completely painless, compared to variable amounts of discomfort with our old technique. As long as your M.D. physician is guiding your treatment and watches the total amount of lidocaine injected (in extra large tattoos), lidocaine injections are totally safe and MUCH more comfortable.

We use topical lidocaine for laser tattoo removal. Injecting lidocaine is not necessary for most patients who are undergoing laser tattoo removal.