Can Picosure Clear my Brand New Tattoo? (photo)

Question

Hi, I recently began a big polynesian style tattoo on the outside of one of my arms. I'm seriously regretting the decision as I can now see how overpowering the design will be on my body and wish I never started it! I've researched into some different forms of tattoo removal and picosure seems the most effective; I am half asian so I have slightly darker skin and the tattoo is very fresh - how much will this effect the results and sessions? Thanks in advance (photo's attached)

Roy G. Geronemus, MD · Answer

Newer tattoos generally respond slower to laser treatment. Of all of the options for removal of fresh tattoos, the PicoSure is by far the best options. You do want to make sure that you are at least 6-8 weeks following tattoo placement before beginning treatment.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is recommended to wait at least 4-6 weeks after a new tattoo before having it removed as this allows time for your body to heal. There are many factors that will determine how many sessions it will require to remove a tattoo and this includes size, color, placement and how fast your body removes the ink. However, the average cost to remove a medium size tattoo is $500-$1000 per session. 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!

Hardik Soni, MD · Answer

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. It works best on darker inks such as black and blue. The number of sessions required to remove a tattoo can range from 6-10 sessions. The amount of sessions depends on the size, color and placement of the tattoo. The further the tattoo is from the heart the more time it will take to remove. I hope this information helps

Sean A. Simon, MD · Answer

The Picosure from Cynosure will be your best option. I utilize this laser in my Miami, Fl based plastic surgery practice. As soon as the skin is completely healed - approximately 6 weeks from the time of the initial tattooing, you may start the removal process.

Jeffrey W. Hall, MD · Answer

The PicoSure™ Laser is FDA approved for skin types I-IV. Darker skin types V and VI may be at greater risk of hypopigmentation. Only your physician can determine your skin type and the appropriate PicoSure™ settings to ensure safe and effective tattoo removal. At Hall Plastic Surgery and Rejuvenation Center in Austin, Texas we treat numerous Type IV skin types and we are extremely pleased with the clinical results. The age of your tattoos will generally not affect the treatment regimen, though we do recommend not to treat a new tattoo until it is 6-8 weeks old.

Kean B. Lawlor, MD · Answer

The only issue with treating a new tattoo is the healing time between placement and your first removal.  We usually recommend waiting 6-8 weeks.  You can consult with a dermatologist during that time to get the process started, work out financing, etc.

	You have a lot of thick, black ink in your tattoo so I would recommend finding a PicoSure in your area.  Starting with a Nd:YAG is another option but you'll end up needing more treatments and it could take much longer to remove.

	With any laser treatment you will run the risk of hypopigmentation in the area.  A "ghost" outline of where your tattoo was, its shape, etc. can remain.  All patients run the risk of scarring as well.  Please consider your history of scarring and whether you've ever had a hypertrophic scar before you begin treatment.  If you have, your likelyhood of scarring is much higher.

Can Picosure Clear my Brand New Tattoo? (photo)

Answers (6)

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