4 days post op second tattoo removal and not seeing results. Advice? (Photo)

Question

I had 2 different providers for each tattoo removal. I had my first tattoo removal with Q-switch laser on October 27th 2017. I found another provider that was cheaper and use PicoSure and I decided to switch. I had my second session on March 15th 2018. I don't have any problem with blisters or infection since the first session. I keep applying Aquaphor about 3-4 times a day. I see my tattoo now is getting more visible as if it was new and fresh instead of fading. Is this normal and common?

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Thanks for you question. Do not be discouraged by your results as tattoo removal takes time and several treatments. It is good that you switched to a Picosecond laser. The Picosure is a good option but I have seen better results with the Piqo4 by Lumenis. Here are my tips for successful tattoo removal. Good luck.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

Michelle Ellern, DO · Answer

4 days is way to short to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. It can take up to 3 months for the ink to be removed after the treatment. Initially, especially in the first few treatments, the ink can appear darker after the treatment.  You need more time and more treatments for that tattoo to be removed.  Good luck with your treatments.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

It often takes six treatments or more to have the tattoo removed.  You can't tell the results after a few days. I bring patients back after two months to assess the results. If you are concerned about the settings you should return to your treating physician. Best, Dr. Green

Evan Sorokin, MD · Answer

It takes many weeks after treatment to see results from tattoo remove.  This is why docs recommend waiting at least 6-8 weeks between treatments.  The picosure is a great laser and often does not create a large amount of blistering.  If you are nervous I would call the place where you were treated and ask they what they normally see based on the treatment they did.  Good luck!

4 days post op second tattoo removal and not seeing results. Advice? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: 4 days is too early to see clearance

Answer: 4 days is too early to see clearance

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4 days post op second tattoo removal and not seeing results. Advice? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: 4 days is too early to see clearance

Answer: 4 days is too early to see clearance

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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.