What is best procedure to remove this 18 year old tattoo? (Photos)

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal is the gold standard for removing unwanted ink. Several treatments will be required to achieve desired results, so patience is key during this process. Pricing is typically based on the size of the tattoo, although depending on the location and office, pricing will vary. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Yes, this can be removed with laser tattoo removal. It will take a series of treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Thanks for your question and photos.  A tattoo that old will not be too difficult to remove, you just have to be patient.  Either a Q-switched 1064/532nm Nd:yag laser or a pico will work, but will take multiple treatments spaced about 8 weeks apart.  Pico treatments tend to be a lot more expensive and both types of laser are very effective for a tattoo like yours.  Most dermatologists charge by the size of the tattoo, whether or not you will be using topical or injected anesthesia, and whether or not you will use Pronox ( nitrous oxide) for pain management.  Please see a board certified dermatologist that does tattoo removal or delegates it to the properly trained person in their clinic and you will have excellent results.  Best of luck!

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo.  The way a laser rids the skin of unwanted ink is, it shatters the ink into tiny particles and the body absorbs those particles.  The latest technology in laser tattoo removal is the pico-second technology.  The PicoWay Laser (Candela/Syneron) uses photoacoustic impact/pressure waves rather than photothermal/heat.  This process has less heat, therefore it is more comfortable and the chances of hyperpigmentation are less.  The Pico-second pulse shatters the ink into even smaller particles, allowing the body to more easily absorb the ink.  This type of device can usually remove unwanted ink in about half as many treatments as the traditional Q-switch device.  This tattoo looks pretty dense in ink, but if I had to guesstimate how many treatments, with the PicoWay device, I would say between 8-12 treatments.  Pricing will vary from market to market and depending on the device being used.  It is best to have an in-person consult to determine how many treatments and pricing.  Good Luck!