Are these normal results for Picosure tattoo removal? (photos)

Question

The first picture is before and the second is after. I have had 2 treatments of picosure tattoo removal on JUST the black parts of my half sleeve the colored ones are not being treated. The laser is cynosure & I don't see much of a difference, I'm aware that it takes a long time to see full results but I don't even see a little bit of a change. There is a LITTLE fading but very minimal in my point of view. Are these normal results or should I switch my provider and/or laser?

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting a picture.  You did not mention how long you have been treating your tattoo.  After using a PicoSure for two and half years doing tattoo removal, I can tell you that most tattoos take 18 to 24 months to remove.  The most important element in picosecond laser tattoo removal is time.  The laser breaks up the ink into tiny particles and then your body has to flush it away.  For new tattoo removal patients, we see them every 2-3 months.  After 2-4 treatments, we try to see them every 4-6 months.  Best of luck.

Robert Pettis, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  Compared to conventional laser tattoo removal, The PicoSure laser by CynoSure is a highly advanced laser for tattoo removal, so results are typically better and faster because of it's use of PressureWave technology.  The Pressure Wave technology is so powerful that it shatters ink into tiny (microscopic) dust like particles.  Those particles are eliminated naturally by your body.  When we looked at your photos we did perceive some slight change in the tattoo, so you may want to consider a couple more treatments spaced 8 weeks apart before making a determination.  Some patients don't begin seeing noticeable results until the third or fourth treatment as some inks are more difficult to shatter than others. 
Ink characteristics, lifestyle habits and your own body's natural response times all play a considerable role in how long it will take for you to see results and how many treatments will be needed to eliminate your tattoo.  As a result, some patients may not see noticeable fading until months into the treatments.  
I recommend that you discuss your results with your provider and ask if there are any adjustments that could be made to better achieve your results.  Rest assured that you are being treated with excellent laser technology.
We wish you all the best!

Are these normal results for Picosure tattoo removal? (photos)

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Are these normal results for Picosure tattoo removal? (photos)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about PicoSure

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.