Is it okay to do laser removal on a tattoo with a healed scar over it?

Question

Will it be okay to perform laser tattoo removal on a scar over a tattoo that was caused by salabrasion (ik it wasnt a smart thing to do but amazingly most of the ink is gone), and to do laser to remove the rest of the ink, i know that further scarring is possible but its about 19 months healed and completely flat and white i just want to know if its something that a laser operator will refuse to do or not, it is healed extremely well but the scarring is there.

Barbara Padilla, MD · Answer

A tattoo that has healed scar tissue over it will still react to laser treatments.  We use the Cutera enlighten laser system which operates in both pico and nano second pulses to target different size ink particles as well as the 1064 and 532 wavelengths for different colors and shades of inks. Keep in mind, the 532 wavelength can only be used on certain skin types.  It would be a great idea to schedule an appointment with a provider in your area with the proper equipment to achieve the results you are looking for.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, the laser can remove tattoo ink in scar tissue.Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers.  It will take a series of treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, you can have laser tattoo removal to remove the remaining ink over scar tissue. I recommend having treatment with the Picosure laser as it is effective in removing 70-90% of a tattoo and works best on dark colors. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Phuong Q. Tien, MD · Answer

Hello! Thanks for your question. Scarring should not impact your ability to receive laser tattoo removal, as long as your wound has fully healed -- at 19 months of healing, you should be just fine. The lasers used in laser tattoo removal specifically eliminate the pigments in your tattoo ink and do not cause significant damage to the surrounding skin. I would recommend seeking a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who offers laser tattoo removal with a picotechnology laser like the Enlighten laser. Pico lasers use faster pulses of energy for more targeted and more effective treatments. An experienced provider with this newer laser technology will give you your best results. Best of luck!

Jean M. Casello, MD · Answer

Yes, it will be okay to use a laser to remove the remaining ink over scar tissue.  I would suggest that you look for a practitioner who is using a pico laser for the best results.

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Is it okay to do laser removal on a tattoo with a healed scar over it?

Answers (5)

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