if you have laser Tattoo Removal does it leave a scar?

Question

does the whole tattoo take off without a scar

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello,Tattoo removal, if not done correctly, can result in either scarring or ghosting.  Here are some tips:
Find a reputable office with a Pico laser. It produces faster results with less scarring than a nano alone.  Tattoo removal shops are not as reputable as a Doctor. Many of these shops close as quickly as they open, leaving you out of luck on pre-paid packages.Stay out of the sun— sunlight can be harmful to healing in after any laser procedureAvoid infections- This means keep your tattoo area clean (i.e. don’t garden right after a tattoo removal on your arm, etc), don’t pick scabs or blisters if they occur.  Follow our post procedure instructions.  Avoid swimming for 48 hours as water can infect the treated areas.Allow healing between treatment sessions- typically 4-8 weeks.Be healthy- while the tattoo laser breaks up the tattoo particles, your body will actually eliminate the particles. Being healthy will help achieve this process faster and allow for consistent healing. Drink lots of water, get adequate sleep, and eat vitamin enriched foods.In our practice we utilize the currently most powerful Pico laser on the market called the PiQo4 by Lumenis.  The main advantage of a stronger tattoo laser (combining nano and pico wavelengths at greater power) is faster breakup of the tattoo.  The science of tattoo removal is complex but essentially the greater power will photo acoustically break up tattoo particles in smaller pieces. 
Best, 
Anil Shah

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Jazzy.  Tattoo removal does not have to leave a scar.  There is a tradeoff between aggressive treatments that can cause bleeding or blistering but get rid of the tattoo quickly and less aggressive treatments that do not disrupt the surface layer of the skin, but will result in more visits.  We always choose the more conservative approach with less aggressive treatments to avoid bleeding and scarring.  The other key factor is the color of the tattoo.  Multi colored tattoos, especially greens, purples and oranges require more treatments and have a higher risk of scarring.Choose your practitioner wisely and ask how often they have issues with scarring.

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!

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. My suggestion is to
learn more about the Picosure laser. The Picosure laser will remove your
unwanted tattoo completely without harming any of the surrounding tissue. You
will need fewer treatments than traditional lasers. Good luck!

Mark Taylor, MD · Answer

Laser tattoo removal is very safe and rarely leaves a scar.  Causes of scarring from laser tattoo removal include:1) Patients with a strong tendency to form keloids 2) Poor wound care following treatment 3) Scarring caused by the application of the tattoo that is unveiled by laser tattoo removal 4) Overly aggressive tattoo treatments leaving blisters and open wounds that are not properly cared for as they heal 5) Trauma to the treated area while it is healing 6) Infection 7) Improper device used for the treatment (Only nanosecond and picosecond lasers can remove tattoos without scarring.)

if you have laser Tattoo Removal does it leave a scar?

Answers (7)

Answer: No scars with the Picosure Laser

Answer: No scars with the Picosure Laser

Answer: It is rare for laser tattoo removal to leave a scar.

Answer: It is rare for laser tattoo removal to leave a scar.

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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if you have laser Tattoo Removal does it leave a scar?

Answers (7)

Answer: No scars with the Picosure Laser

Answer: No scars with the Picosure Laser

Answer: It is rare for laser tattoo removal to leave a scar.

Answer: It is rare for laser tattoo removal to leave a scar.

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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.