Can a raised tattoo be removed? (Photo)

Question

I got a small tattoo nearly 6 years ago. It was not done by a professional and is all black ink. The tattoo is slightly raised in certain areas, possibly due to the tattoo "artist" pressing down too hard. What would happen if I tried to have this tattoo removed? Would it be possible to remove the black ink? I have had laser hair removal and other laser treatments without any issues.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal is the best option for removal. Once the ink has been removed, microneedling treatments can begin to help fade the appearance of scarring. 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!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

this can usually be improved with a combination of tattoo removal laser, steroid injections and fraxel non ablative laser in combination.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, you can have this tattoo removed with laser tattoo removal. In my office I use the PicoSure laser. 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 lighten or 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 recommend having a consultation with an expert to determine the best treatment plan for you. Best of Luck!

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

Probably the raised area you are referring to is a scar caused by inexpert tattoo application. The first step would be to remove the tattoo itself. Luckily, it is small and dark. Black ink actually is the easiest to remove. I prefer the PicoWay laser, because it uses very short bursts of high-intensity energy to shatter the pigment in tattoos without heating the skin. It will probably take at least 5 PicoWay sessions to fade the tattoo. Once it's gone, you can improve or remove the scar with microneedling, subcision, and/or laser resurfacing. A board-certified dermatologist who is expert in tattoo removal will be able to help you remove the tattoo and fade the scar.

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and for including a photo.  This tattoo looks like it can be easily removed with laser.  Black ink is the easies color of ink to target.  You should have good results. The technology being used will usually determine how many treatments will be necessary. We use the PicoWay (pico-second technology), this type of device can usually remove a tattoo in about half as many treatments as the traditional Q-switch devices.  You can check to see if this technology is available in your area by clicking on the attached weblink and putting in your zip code to find a provider.Good Luck!

Can a raised tattoo be removed? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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