Should cold packs before laser treatment (tattoo removal) burn the skin?

Question

I've had 4 laser tattoo removal treatments. The last time I went, the cold packs were very cold and left on a long time (maybe 10 minutes). As a result, I have burns on my skin (not where the tattoo is) that hurt and look worse than the laser removal area! Should I complain to the company that is doing the removal?

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

SOUNDS LIKE THIS IS FROSTBITE. THEY WERE LEFT DIRECTLY ON YOUR SKIN WITHOUT BEING WRAPPED IN SOMETHING AND LEFT ON FOR TOO LONG

Phillip Bekhor, MBBS, FACD · Answer

Ice is a wonderful anesthetic if used correctly but if it is left on the skin for too long it will burn you, just like frost bite. It is definitely negligent to leave a pack in place. It is important to return to the clinic who performed the treatment - they need to know that their technique is causing complications. If pain relief is an issue for you during treatment I would suggest you find a  medical practice, preferably and experienced laser dermatologist who can offer you local anesthetic before your treatment. Best of luck.

Should cold packs before laser treatment (tattoo removal) burn the skin?

Answers (2)