Removal of a one month old black outline tattoo, which laser would be best to use? (Photos)

Question

I got this tattoo almost one month ago, and I wish I had my bare skin back. It is only black ink. About 1.5”x4”. What are my chances at a full removal? Any estimate on number of sessions? And what type of laser would be best? PicoSure, PicoWay, or just a normal q-switch laser? Thank you.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Tattoos should be removed with q switched or pico lasers. We also use the pfd patch to help speed up the process. It will take a series of treatments, and you'll want to wait until it's completely healed (4-6 weeks) I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo.  This tattoo should not be that difficult to remove.  The way a laser rids the body of unwanted ink is, it shatters the ink into tiny particles and your 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 technology can usually remove unwanted ink in about half as many treatments as the traditional Q-switch devices.  Because the ink is placed on a lower extremity, it may take more treatments than if the ink were placed somewhere on the trunk of the body.  The further away from the heart, usually more treatments are necessary.  You can click on the weblink below and put in your zip code to "find a provider" of this technology in your area.Good Luck!

James Silberzweig, MD · Answer

Laser is an excellent option for tattoo removal. Consider a tattoo that features a 1064 nm wavelength and a picosecond pulse width. Removal will require approximately 6-10 sessions.

Removal of a one month old black outline tattoo, which laser would be best to use? (Photos)

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Removal of a one month old black outline tattoo, which laser would be best to use? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

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