I have had 17 tattoo laser sessions on my tattoo and it's still very visible, is this normal? (photos)

Question

My tattoo is all black and big, on my arm from my shoulder to my elbow. I've had 17 sessions and it has faded an extreme amount but is still very visable. I've been treating it correctly and using sun block or covering it from sun light. I'm worried it will never go? In the photo attached you can see how much has faded as you can slightly see a tattoo on the back of my arm that I'm keeping which was the same darkness as the one I'm having removed. Thank you

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest seeing an expert for tattoo removal this would require a combination approach for improvement.  I suggest a formal consultation.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD · Answer

There a several variables that can make the process a lengthy time, however, 17 sessions is quite a lot. We usually require 4-8 for black tattoos depending on the ink used and depth of the tattoo. It is best to seek  consultation with a well trained, reputable, and experienced provider. Go over your concerns and allow them to assess and give you your best options available.

Daniel J. Ritacca, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. My preference for black tattoos is the PiQo4 laser that has 4 Pico wavelengths including the 1064 wavelength for black. I am sorry to hear about your concerns. Best of luck with removal. Dr. Daniel Ritacca

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. 17 treatments is definitely a lot of treatments, but it has obviously faded a great amount.  As the ink pigment gets lighter, it is necessary to use more energy in order to target the pigment.  You do not say what type of device is being used or what wavelength is being used.  You could always try another provider with a different laser and wavelength to see if they can reach the residual ink.Good Luck!

William Yates, MD · Answer

Good morning. For what's seen, you might want to try going to a different place to remove what's left of your tattoo. You definately need some more sessions to finish the job but I will recommend trying a different laser machine. Sometimes that is all it takes to finally get rid of that outline.I hope this helps you and wish you the best of lucks!

I have had 17 tattoo laser sessions on my tattoo and it's still very visible, is this normal? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: 17 tattoo sessions, still a visible shadow?

Answer: 17 tattoo sessions, still a visible shadow?

Answer: Very probable to be resolved with more sessions (perhaps different machine)

Answer: Very probable to be resolved with more sessions (perhaps different machine)

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.

I have had 17 tattoo laser sessions on my tattoo and it's still very visible, is this normal? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: 17 tattoo sessions, still a visible shadow?

Answer: 17 tattoo sessions, still a visible shadow?

Answer: Very probable to be resolved with more sessions (perhaps different machine)

Answer: Very probable to be resolved with more sessions (perhaps different machine)

Browse related questions

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.