What is the best tattoo removal method for my tattoo? Picosure vs MedLite vs R20, etc?

Question

Due to an upcoming event in about 7 months, I need to get my tattoo removed. It is currently on my back and I got it about 3.5 years ago. You can see from the quarter comparison that is it relatively small. How many treatments and with which type of laser would be best for my case?

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

The PicoSure laser is the best tattoo removal
system available and can decrease the number of treatments necessary for
complete removal in half. In addition, the PicoSure may also improve skin
texture. We also have all three different Q-switched lasers as well as
fractionated CO2 lasers (DeepFX). Sometimes a variety of lasers are necessary
to get the best results. Laser tattoo removal generally takes between 5 and 10
treatment sessions depending on the size and color of the tattoo. I suggest you
visit a laser expert who has all of the lasers including the PicoSure for a
consultation soon to ensure the tattoo is removed before your event.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Lasers and other light therapy devices, such as the Infrared Coagulater (IRC), are the treatments of choice today. Lasers work by emitting short, intense pulses of light that pass through the skin and target the ink. The energy from the laser light fragments the large particles of tattoo pigment enabling the body’s natural immune system to more easily scavenge the pigment and carry it away. This process usually takes several weeks, and multiple treatment sessions are often necessary to achieve maximal clearing.From the photo, the tattoo is small and appears black. Since black pigment absorbs all wavelengths of light, it is ironically the easiest pigment to remove. (By contrast, colors, such as green, do not absorb as well, necessitating treatment with a variety of lasers, with varying wavelengths, to effectively treat a multicolored tattoo).Potential complications include permanent scarring, temporary or permanent loss of pigment or excessive pigmentation. Fees for laser treatments may range from $1000-$3000 or more, depending upon the number of treatment sessions required, and the size, shape, colors, and location of the particular tattoo.IRC uses non-laser infrared light to heat the area containing the pigment. It is quick and easy to perform, and generally requires fewer treatments than most lasers. Most small tattoos can be treated successfully in one to three sessions, spaced at six week intervals. In contrast to lasers, the IRC’s efficacy does not depend upon the particular color of the pigments involved. For these reasons, it is my favorite method for dealing with small tattoos.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your tattoo will be best treated with the Picosure laser. PicoSure has a short pulse duration that exceeds photothermal action and results in an intense photomechanical impact. This adds up to faster results and fewer treatments when compared to other tattoo removal methods. The amount of sessions you will need depends on the size, color, and placement of the tattoo. However, the average price for a small tattoo per session is $100-$250. Please remember the further the tattoo is from the heart the more time it will take to remove. I recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Lee P. Laris, DO · Answer

For speed of removal you cannot beat Picosure   It is the fastest even when compared to the R-20 technique. Treatments can be done in shorter intervals and with more ink removal each time in our experience.

What is the best tattoo removal method for my tattoo? Picosure vs MedLite vs R20, etc?

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Answers (4)

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